ZZ-FC008 The Birch House

Marker text: THE BIRCH HOUSE

Located on 2.1 acres of land purchased by Joseph E. Birch for $105 in 1849 (part of 1837 24.5-acre Kidwell Grant). Original house was 1-1/2 story "I" house, raised to 2-stories in 1850s; 1873 addition doubled the size. Blacksmith/farmer Birch was on first town council, a founder of Jefferson Institute, & a Methodist Church trustee. Wife Mary led a successful temperance movement. Three generations of Birches lived here until 1968. In 1976, the house, empty and vandalized, laong with 2.5 acres was sold by grandson Milton to Historic Falls Church, Inc. whihc was organized to save the 300 block from developers.

City of Falls Church.