Life of George Carroll
Who was George Carroll?
In the vibrant tapestry of post-Civil War America, George emerged as a respected community member, transcending the limitations of his time. As a licensed business owner and a trustee at the Laurel Grove Church, he wielded influence and respect, shaping the destiny of those around him. Alongside fellow former slaves, including Middleton Braxton and William Jasper, George played a pivotal role in the establishment of a congregation near a grove of laurel on Beulah Road[5]. This congregation, steeped in the values of education and unity, became a cornerstone of their community.
Through meticulous research involving tax records, wills, and US census data, George Carroll's life story unfolded. In a remarkable display of foresight and determination, he expanded his original ten acres, given to his family by Dennis Johnston, to a sprawling 121 acres near Telegraph Road as shown on the Carrolltown land marker. The flourishing community he cultivated, known as Carrolltown, thrived through the efforts of extended family units like the Kelly, Carter, Harris, and Carroll families.
In 1874, 'the newly granted political rights of the county's blacks assured local Republicans a significant voice' demonstrating that black votes were heard when deciding political actions in Fairfax County [6]. Black individuals began to take on new opportunities through voting rights which allowed them to live a life of empowerment. George's community transformed their surroundings, donating lumber from Carrolltown to construct the very institutions that would educate their children and foster their spiritual growth—the Laurel Grove School and Church [4].
George Carroll's legacy is not just a story of individual triumph but a testament to the power of unity, education, and community support. His life, intertwined with the very soil he cultivated, serves as an enduring reminder of the strength that emerges when a community stands together, bound by the shared dream of a better tomorrow. The below timeline will outline the primary resources found from the Fairfax Circuit Court to interpret George’s character and how he contributed to the community.
Even after his passing, George's kind character shines through in his will statement, demonstrating his caring nature and love for his family by opting for a minimal-expense burial. This decision reflects his frugality and desire to save money for the benefit of his loved ones. This narrative pieced together through meticulous research involving tax records, wills, and census data, unveils a forgotten chapter in history. By employing Fuentes' method to explore George's surrounding life — encompassing community, relatives, and friends — and examining limited resources, we can reconstruct a narrative often overlooked by conventional historical accounts. This research not only serves to honor George's memory but also to extend condolences to families who have experienced the hardships of slavery, shedding light on stories that have been overshadowed by time.
The meticulous tracing of George Carroll's land transactions has become a gateway to a deeper understanding of the community that enveloped him. Starting with the original 10 acres bequeathed by Dennis Johnston, George expanded his property holdings, culminating in 121 acres. His initial acquisition of 60 acres from Katie Johnston in 1899 stands out as a significant milestone. The journey through George's land dealings unfolds a poignant tale, concluding in 1913 with the sale of 10 acres, as stipulated in Dennis's will, to Edgar Harris. The potential link between George and Edgar, hinted at by historians connecting Edgar Harris to Thornton Gray, a trustee of the Laurel Grove School, opens avenues for intriguing research. Beyond individual transactions, the importance of tracing George's property lies in its broader impact on the history of Fairfax County. This is exemplified by the passing of land to relatives like Lorenzo and Holland in the 1964 tax records or Luther and William in George's Will, providing a tangible link to the enduring legacy of George Carroll and its illuminating role in the county's history.
[1]Deed from Katie Johnston to George Carroll, Fairfax Deed Book D-6 page 529, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.
[2]Fairfax County in 1860 a Collective Biography Edith Moore Sprouse, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.
[3]Fairfax County, Virginia Gravestones, Volume 5 page SA-81, 1998, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.
[4] “Carrolltown Historical Marker,” Fairfax County African American History Inventory, https://fairfaxaahi.centerformasonslegacies.com/items/show/124. Accessed 3 Nov. 2023.
[5] “Laurel Grove School Museum.” Fairfax County African American History Inventory, fairfaxaahi.centerformasonslegacies.com/items/show/13. Accessed 3 Nov. 2023.
[6] Netherton, Nan. “Page 50.” Fairfax County, Virginia: A History, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Fairfax, VA, 1992.
[7]Tax Record from George Carroll to Edgar Harris, Fairfax Deed Book Q-6 page 306, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.
[8]United States Census, 1880, MT Vernon, Fairfax, Virginia
[9]Will Statement of George Carroll, Fairfax Will Book 6 page 251, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.
[10]1852 Archive Tax Records from Dennis Johnston, 20 Dec 1852, Fairfax County Historic Records Center, Fairfax, VA.