In this connection and before proceeding further I desire to say that my right to prosecute this work can not fairly be questioned; that a familiar treatment of the subject I have regarded as my inalienable prerogative.  I was born in Loudoun County, of parents who in turn could boast the same distinction, and, if not all, certainly the happiest days of my life were passed within those sacred precincts.  I have viewed her housetops from every crowning eminence, her acres of unmatched grain, her Arcadian pastures and browsing herds, her sun-kissed hills and silvery, serpentine streams.  I have known the broad, ample playgrounds of her stately old Academy, and shared in the wholesome, health-giving sports their breadth permitted.  I have known certain of her astute schoolmasters and felt the full rigor of their discipline.  Stern tutors they were, at times seemingly cruel, but what retrospective mind will not now accord them unstinted praise and gratitude?  Something more than the mere awakening and development of slumbering intellects was their province:  raw, untamed spirits were given into their hands for a brief spell—­brief when measured in after years—­and were then sent forth to combat Life’s problems with clean hearts, healthy minds, robust bodies, and characters that might remain unsullied though beset with every hellish device known to a sordid world.  God bless the dominies of our boyhood—­the veteran schoolmasters of old Loudoun!

But to return to my theme.  I have a distinct foresight of the views which some will entertain and express in reference to this work, though my least fears of criticism are from those whose experience and ability best qualify them to judge.

However, to the end that criticism may be disarmed even before pronouncement, the reader, before condemning any statements made in these sketches that do not agree with his preconceived opinions, is requested to examine all the facts in connection therewith.  In so doing it is thought he will find these statements correct in the main.

In such a variety of subjects there must of course be many omissions, but I shall be greatly disappointed if actual errors are discovered.

In substantiation of its accuracy and thoroughness I need only say that the compilation of this work cost me three years of nocturnal application—­the three most ambitious and disquieting years of the average life.  During this period the entire book has been at least three times rewritten.

In the best form of which I am capable the fruits of these protracted labors are now committed to the candid and, it is hoped, kindly judgment of the people of Loudoun County.

James W. Head. 
“Arcadia,”
Barcroft, Va., Feb. 1, 1909.

Descriptive.

Situation.

Loudoun County lies at the northern extremity of “Piedmont Virginia,"[1] forming the apex of one of the most picturesquely diversified regions on the American continent.  Broad plains, numerous groups and ranges of hills and forest-clad mountains, deep river gorges, and valleys of practically every conceivable form are strewn to the point of prodigality over this vast undulatory area.