Callands was the location of the first courthouse of Pittsylvania County from 1767 until 1777, and a place of significance during the Revolutionary War era. Samuel Calland was a former loyalist hailing from Scotland; after the Revolution broke out, he was ordered to leave the colony. But upon further examination of the court, the justices determined that he could stay since he had married a reside
nt of the county. Later, he took the Oath of Allegiance, and lived the rest of his life as a popular and well-respected citizen. It was also at this location that several gentleman formed a "Committee of Safety", and pledged their lives and fortune to upholding the cause that their brothers in Boston were being persecuted for. Since 1980, the "Autumn Potpourri" festival (better known as the Callands Festival) has taken place on the first Saturday of each October. The event takes place at the site of the old Callands Clerk's Office and the location of the original courthouse. Thousands of people attend the event, and hundreds of crafts and goods can be purchased and viewed. Various historical interpreters can be found roaming the festival grounds.