2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26101094D

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 180

Offered February 26, 2026

Commending the Friends of Pleasant Grove.

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Patrons—Sullivan; Senator: Boysko

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WHEREAS, for more than 40 years, the Friends of Pleasant Grove has stewarded the preservation of Historic Pleasant Grove Church and provided engaging cultural experiences that enrich the lives of McLean residents; and

WHEREAS, Historic Pleasant Grove Church, a Gothic Carpenter style church, was built by and for Black and Native American families living in McLean circa 1895; and

WHEREAS, the Friends of Pleasant Grove was established in the 1980s by a group of local citizens and descendants of the founding trustees of the church who came together to save and restore the church when it was threatened with destruction and demolition; and

WHEREAS, after restoring the structure, the Friends of Pleasant Grove created a museum in its lower level that features the household and professional tools of founding church member William Sanford Sharper; the museum was dedicated in memory of his granddaughter, Frances K. Moore; and

WHEREAS, the Friends of Pleasant Grove has preserved this historic landmark and the stories of Pleasant Grove Church and its parishioners during the Reconstruction Era, and it faithfully serves local residents by maintaining cultural and community connections; and

WHEREAS, the Friends of Pleasant Grove has fostered a variety of educational and cultural activities, including history and art exhibitions and community meetings and events; the organization hosts several beloved local events, including the annual Christmas Singalong, Jubilee Voices show, Spring Open House, and more; and

WHEREAS, the Friends of Pleasant Grove has fulfilled its mission through the outstanding leadership of its all-volunteer governing board, support from the many descendants of the founding families and original trustees, and the hard work of countless event and program volunteers; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Friends of Pleasant Grove for more than 40 years of service to Historic Pleasant Grove Church and the McLean community; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Friends of Pleasant Grove as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the organization's legacy of contributions to the residents of McLean and its dedication to preserving a historically significant Black and Native American site and cherished local gathering place.