An International Visit: Exploring Fredericksburg with Travel Writer Verena Wolff
On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Economic Development and Tourism staff welcomed Verena Wolff, a travel writer from Bavaria, Germany, to Fredericksburg during her recent tour of Virginia! Her trip was coordinated by our friends at the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), who planned a weeklong journey showcasing some of the Commonwealth’s most historic and inspiring destinations.
Verena is writing about George Washington and America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, so Fredericksburg was a natural stop along the way. After all, our city is filled with stories of Washington and his family, as well as chapters of American history that continue to shape the nation today.
During her time in Fredericksburg, Verena explored:
- George Washington’s Ferry Farm – Washington’s boyhood home along the Rappahannock River
- Historic Kenmore – the beautiful Georgian home of his sister, Betty Washington Lewis
- Mary Washington House – where George’s mother spent her final years
- Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge No. 4 – one of the oldest Masonic lodges in the country, with ties to Washington himself
It was a pleasure sharing our city’s rich history and warm hospitality with Verena, and we’re excited that her writing will introduce Fredericksburg to readers in Germany and beyond. As the United States prepares to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, visits like hers help spread the word about Fredericksburg’s special place in the American story.
Image: Verena Wolff and Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge No. 4 Worshipful Master Michael Dove