Bucknell Elementary, located in Alexandria, Virginia, opened its doors in 1955. At the time of its construction, Bucknell was the largest elementary school in Fairfax County. We invite you to explore some facets of our unique and fascinating history.

What's in a Name?

The land on which our school stands was once the hunting ground of the Taux people, also known as the Dogue. In 1649, it was part of a land grant issued by King Charles II of England to John, the 1st Baron Culpeper of Thoresway, and sixth other men, among whom was John's cousin Thomas Culpeper. It later passed down to Thomas, the 6th Lord Fairfax, Baron of Cameron, for whom Fairfax County is named. In the 20th century, the land became the property of a university located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Learn about the connection between this university and the name of our school in this video produced for Fairfax County Public Schools’ cable television channel Red Apple 21.