The geography around Centreville, Virginia, including its position within the Potomac River Valley, directly led to its development as a village-but its people made it a community. It also led to the development of the Civil War fortifications at Centreville, which became its historical feature. The Complete History of the Civil War Fortifications at Centreville: The Long with Path to War for a Virginia Community is the story of the decisions made by leaders and the village residents over the centuries, which led to the the changing nature of the Centreville community.

John C. Carter has a master's degrees in both history and psychology, and worked at the Stuart-Mosby Civil War Cavalry Museum in Centreville. His history of Centreville alone brings the town directly into focus, including highlighting its role in the Civil War.