Tinner Hill Heritage Trail

The Tinner Hill Heritage Trail in the City of Falls Church, Virginia, highlights the history of African American families who have lived in Falls Church since the 18th century. It honors their contributions to the city and their civil rights legacy and offers a meaningful way for residents and visitors to engage with the city’s history.  The Tinner Hill Heritage Trail is a self-guided trail that includes markers that provide information about significant events and figures in Falls Church’s African American community, such as Joseph and Elizabeth Tinner, who fought against segregation laws in the early 20th century. Their efforts led to the establishment of the first rural branch of the NAACP. Part of the trail includes Tinner Hill Park, which has a picnic pavilion and features the Zig Zag Monument, which follows the original location of the segregation line. The Trail was made possible by community involvement and the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation. This organization works to raise awareness of the contributions of African Americans and other cultures to the development of Falls Church. They provide community services and host events to educate the public about this rich history.