On November 14, 1917, a pivotal moment in the history of women's rights unfolded, later dubbed the “Night of Terror.” This term reflects the courageous actions of the Silent Sentinels, a group of suffragists who faced unjust treatment while advocating for equality at the Lorton Reformatory in Virginia.

As a dedicated branch of the National Woman’s Party, the Silent Sentinels took their stand by peacefully picketing the White House from January 1917 to June 1919, earnestly calling upon President Woodrow Wilson to champion women's right to vote. Instead of loud protests, they held banners with impactful messages, such as “Mr. President, what will you do for women’s suffrage?” Their quiet determination sparked a powerful movement that eventually led to the passage of the 19th Amendment.

The Lorton Reformatory, which operated from 1910 until its closure in 2001, has since been transformed into a vibrant community space. After being acquired by the county for $4.2 million, the site has undergone a wonderful metamorphosis into the Liberty Crest Apartments, where many now find joy in their new homes.

Collaborating with the Alexander Company, the former prison's expansive 2,342-acre property has been revitalized into 165 modern apartments through a remarkable $64 million renovation that took two years to complete. The Liberty Crest Apartments opened their doors in June 2017, almost a century after that significant “Night of Terror.”

According to David Vos, a project manager with the Alexander Company, the building's abundant windows allow for a delightful flow of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The vision behind the original design, commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt, emphasized rehabilitation and trade skills, favoring open spaces and natural light over the traditional prison atmosphere.

The renovation has honored the site’s history while introducing contemporary amenities. Residents can enjoy a yoga studio, gym, community pool, playgrounds, and a welcoming community space that once served as the cafeteria. The property also features a preschool, dental office, and retail shops, fostering a sense of community and convenience for all.

While the echoes of the past persist, the Liberty Crest Apartments are highly sought after by new residents. One enthusiastic renter expressed their delight, saying they immediately fell in love with the beautiful brick and concrete features, only later discovering the building's fascinating history.

The property embraces its heritage, with old photos and signs reminding visitors of its past as a reformatory. Vos emphasized the importance of preserving history, stating, “We really felt that it’s important to preserve history so you can learn from the past so that you don’t make those mistakes again in the future.” The name “Liberty” was chosen to signify a fresh start, liberating the buildings from their former narrative.

A significant aspect of Liberty Crest's mission is its commitment to affordable housing. Out of the 165 units, 44 are designated for low-income renters, ensuring that everyone can have a place to call home. The apartments, which range from one- to two-bedroom units, offer modern amenities, including in-unit washers and dryers, at reasonable prices.

As the Alexander Company looks to the future, plans are underway to convert an on-site power plant into 10 additional apartments, along with transforming former guard quarters. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with Vos sharing that “everyone’s very proud of what we did here and very pleased with the results.”

Indeed, the Liberty Crest Apartments stand as a symbol of resilience and transformation, blending a rich history with a bright future, where the spirit of community and progress thrives.