Just Like Nothing (else) on Earth: Waterford Revisited 

By Tim Jon

My Walk in Waterford: The Movie; imagine taking an early-morning stroll around an historic village, on a beautifully refreshing day, and you’ve got the whole place to yourself. This was my experience in a nutshell the last time I visited the quiet little community nestled in the heart of north central Loudoun County. Why don’t you come along, it’s not too late to join me; the palpable hush of daybreak urged me to step softly so as not to disturb the residents—some just a few feet from the sidewalk along the streets. 

I had the feeling there was a bit of mutual self-consciousness going on, but—as an outsider—I assume mine weighed heavier. Except for the few early risers on that peaceful morning, only the universe was watching; I was starring in the greatest moving picture never filmed (so are you, by the way); I did, though, empty my camera’s digital card; these images could serve as still shots from the leading actor’s point of view. I (we) could barely take a step or two without feeling the impulse to capture another perspective; you see, the entire Village has enjoyed National Historic Landmark District status since 1970. 

And, I guess a few of the natives may even come to take some of these sights for granted (well, maybe the sight of a crazed photographer (and his highly imaginative followers) walking the streets at dawn will sharpen their appreciation): for me—these sights were as if newly created to welcome my discoveries: the early morning sunshine on the dewy surfaces lent a magical sheen to just about everything in view. Or, maybe I had good coffee (hope you liked it too). 

In any case I thoroughly enjoyed my solitary exploration—mostly along Main Street and Second Street—past the local Post Office (overseen by a guy whose friendship goes back far enough to embarrass both of us), the historic marker just off Second and Main (reminding us that this Village dates back to … well, let’s see—right around 1733—even I wasn’t around at that time), private homes, a few one-of-a-kind stores (the diametric opposite of the retail conglomerates), and a scattering of mysterious-looking storage buildings (at least that’s the direction my imagination led): virtually every molecule a piece of history—including those lugged around by an aging storyteller. 

On such a bright, fresh morning we were all as if newly-minted in our advanced age—enjoying the mere experience of existence. Like I mentioned earlier, I drink effective coffee. 

Now, you’ll remember, I’ve written of Waterford in previous editions of this series: one of my first stories in this collection focused on the historic 2nd Street School—with which I shared a 10-year relationship (now over 25 years!), and much more recently, the experience of discovering the ancient Fairfax Meeting House at the end of my journey along Old Waterford Road, starting from my home in Leesburg. 

You may also recall my early-morning stroll around the well-known Waterford Mill at the sharp bend as Main Street comes in from the north west. 

But this was my first real chance to take—essentially—a private walking tour around this unique Village. And it was good. The small herd of deer grazing in one of the open meadows even seemed to approve. I made my way up to Bond and Liggett Streets—getting some nice images of the sunlight coming through the windows of John Wesley Church (constructed, by the way, around 1890); universal serendipity continued—just like you’d expect in a good movie. 

As I reversed course and slowly made the return to my car, a magical suspension balanced in the air; I believe some of the stardust even accompanied me on the drive home, and … there … I just flicked it off my shoulder, for the sanitation engineers to acquire on garbage day. 

Find the miracle and spread it around. And don’t forget your coffee … and the screen goes blank and turns to white light, fading out as the movie theater lights come up; we stretch, stand and don our outer apparel, sharing reactions to this— the latest release from Tim Jon. Heading outside, we collectively wish that—at least in this case—life could be just like it is in the movies. 

And, now it is …