Counting House Rehabilitation Project Plans Bakery in Historic Falmouth

Stafford County has partnered with Van Zandt-Harkins Properties (VZH) on a project to rehabilitate the historic Counting House in the Historic Falmouth. VZH will take ownership of the property and transform the structure for commercial use, with plans for a bakery. Stafford issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) in 2023 for applications to rent or own the property, which needs major renovations. The Falmouth Redevelopment Area, which includes the Counting House, calls for strengthening Historic Falmouth as a destination where history is experienced through walkable streets, preserved architecture and interpretive storytelling that connects visitors to Stafford's rich history.

"This is Stafford's first effort at a public-private effort to preserve and use a historic structure," said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Deuntay Diggs. "VZH Properties is demonstrating a more sustainable model of preserving historic structures by using private investment and commercial uses, instead of public monies."

Built circa 1840, The Counting House served an essential role in the port economy that once defined Falmouth. In its time, a counting house supported trade, shipping, and business transactions, serving as a hub for records, commerce and coordination. The County's Master Interpretive Plan identifies The Counting House as one of Historic Falmouth's priority assets.

The Counting House restoration will include stabilization, preservation of architectural features and thoughtful integration of modern amenities that help ensure the building can be maintained for generations. The project is expected to take approximately three years and will be supported by regular coordination and progress updates. VZH's concept envisions The Counting House becoming home to Falmouth Bottom Bakery, a warm and inviting gathering place where residents and visitors can slow down, connect and enjoy the simple traditions that make historic towns feel alive.

VZH is a partnership between Van Zandt Restorations, LLC and Harkins Investments, LLC. Together they combine more than 25 years of award-winning restoration experience with expertise in organizational management and community investment.

The Counting House project joins other assets in Historic Falmouth, including Amy's Café, Union Church and Cemetery, Shelton's Cottage, the Historic Port of Falmouth Park, Dunbar's Kitchen with its artist's cooperative and real estate office, Lightner's Store with a hair salon and Harkon (government contracting) office and the Belmont Ferry Farm Trail.

Those with interest in available spaces in Historic Falmouth may contact Stafford County Cultural Resource Specialist Nancy Kotting at [email protected].