The one hundred rural, rustic, and wooded acres that comprise the Freedom Center have long welcomed the worn-out and weary. The land was part of the territory of the Heter family, who had received a land-grant that has become part of the village of Lucketts, Virginia
Loudoun County, Virginia circa 1858
One of the still standing buildings of the Freedom Center is purported to be the old Heter homestead. This building became an "ordinary", sheltering weary travelers. Here they were able to find a warming fire, strengthening nourishment, and necessary rest before continuing on their expeditions.
In 1958 the Glaydin Camp opened under the leadership of Agnes Sailor and George & Louise Baker. After operating for a couple of summers, a full-time boarding school opened to serve children that weren't able to reach their potential in regular schools. The original census was four, which quickly grew to ten. The students came from inner city Washington, D.C., on Mondays, and returned home on Fridays. As the student population increased George started construction. The creation of every building on the property (with the exceptions of the old log lodge and spring house) was overseen by George Baker.
October of 1986 began another chapter in the narration of the Freedom Center. The Glaydin School and Camp became a part of the private Field School of Washington, D.C., under the direction of Elizabeth Ely. Originally the children were brought out to the property on weekends to study theater, American history, and natural science. The Loudoun Field Center at Glaydin was born. The property was finally opened to the local community hosting retreats, arts classes, and teamwork training. This time also saw Loudoun County renting space for an emergency women's shelter. In 1988 a partnership between the Field Center and the Athletes & Business Leaders for Kids was formed. This partnership was instrumental in bringing "at risk" inner-city children out to a boarding academy set in a tranquil and restful atmosphere.
Brad Curl
1994 opened with the National Christian Association, the successor of the Athletes & Business Leaders for Kids, purchasing the property from the Field School. Brad Curl, the director of the NCA, wanted to develop the private boarding school into a strong character building experience with a Christian perspective. He set in motion an agenda that is continuing today under the direction of a new group of owners and directors.
