Today, we explore not one but two intriguing objects: a beautifully bound 19th-century account book from Catharine Furnace and a newly acquired portrait of its proprietor, John Spotswood Wellford. From the fine details of financial transactions to the mystery of an unsigned painting, we uncover the story behind these items and the industrial legacy they represent. Join us as we connect the dots between these objects and dive into the rich, complex history of Wellford and the furnace he ran.

Music Credit: “Phantom Waltz Dance” by Stocktune, used with permission.

We thought it would be fun on this episode of What Remains to take a look at the history of the building that holds our history.

The Old City Hall building (now the FAM) was built in 1816 and has many stories. Learn about why we're here, what's the deal with those hooks, and how the Civil War almost caused us to lose this building.

We love this building, and we hope after listening you will too!

In this debut episode, we set sail—figuratively andhistorically—down the Rappahannock River to explore the story of the batteau, a flat-bottomed wooden boat once envisioned to transform trade in the area.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation with FAM’s CuratorKylie Thomson about river transport, local history, and what the batteau’s story tells us about the ambitions—and limitations—of early infrastructure in Fredericksburg.

Discover what these boats were, why they mattered, and how their story still ripples through local history today.