JUNE 2024 EVENTS NEWSLETTER
The Revolutionary Rumble
Fridays and Saturdays in June
A Lamentable Evil Focus Tour at Scotchtown
Hanover County
Join our historic interpreters for a 45 minute long focus tour centered around the enslaved men, women and children who lived and worked at Scotchtown during the Henry family’s residence. Learn more about who they were, the lives they lived and what their daily experiences may have been like.
Saturdays in June
George Washington Whiskey Tasting
Fairfax County
Sample George Washington’s whiskey and other distilled spirits made at Washington’s Distillery. In 1799, George Washington’s distillery produced nearly 11,000 gallons, making it one of the largest whiskey distilleries in America. Today, a reconstructed working distillery produces small batch spirits on-site using 18th-century distilling methods.
Summer Saturdays at Gunston Hall
Fairfax County
Explore history in different ways with this drop-in summer program. Each Saturday will have a host of different activities around a different theme. Savor history, dig in the dirt, and play games as we learn about the 18th century at Gunston Hall.
Sundays in June
Liberty or Death Church Tours
Richmond
Visit St. John’s Church, the location of the Second Virginia Convention, and hear the fascinating story of Patrick Henry and his ‘Liberty or Death” speech in the heady days on the eve of the American Revolution. About 35 minutes with time for Q&A.
June 1 – 2
Annual Loyalists in the Backcountry
Pulaski County
Learn more about both the Loyalists and Patriots in the New River Valley during the American Revolution. Living history presented by the Fincastle Company. The event is free to attend, but donations welcome. This is the Third Annual “Loyalists in the Backcountry” event.
Blackbeard Pirate Festival
Hampton
Once a year visitors from all over the country enjoy the sights and sounds of 18th century Hampton overrun by pirates. Hampton’s waterfront comes alive with dozens of pirate re-enactors, costumed in historically accurate garb, who transform today’s Hampton into the busy seaport of yesterday. Led by Blackbeard the Pirate himself, re-enactors help visitors step back in time and re-live the history and legends of 1718 Hampton. The Festival offers a variety of children’s activities, live musical entertainment, fireworks, period vendors, arts and crafts, and much more!
Monacan Indian Nation 31st Powwow
Amherst County
This two-day event includes indigenous drumming, singing and dancing, as well as food and crafts from across Indian Country.
June 1 – 3
“American Revolution Experience” Traveling Exhibit
Charlotte County
This innovative pop-up exhibition at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology, and unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.
Through June 12
2024 Summer Dig at George Washington’s Ferry Farm
Stafford County
This year’s dig site is where an old 18th-century kitchen once stood. We hope to learn more about the kitchen building itself, a fire that occurred, and find artifacts within and outside the structure. Digs occur Monday – Friday, 10-4pm, weather permitting.
June 2
Amelia Officer of the Revolution Gravesite Dedication
Amelia County
The Richmond Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), in conjunction with the Amelia County American Revolution 250 Committee, the Amelia County Historical Society, and Christ Episcopal Church, Amelia, will dedicate a marker prominently pointing passers-by to the nearby grave of Amelia’s own Major Joseph Eggleston, “Light Horse” Harry Lee’s second-in-command in the American Revolutionary War. The ceremony will include the presentation of the Colors and musketry salute by the SAR Color Guard dressed in Revolutionary War period uniforms.
Prelude to the Revolution: 2024 First Lecture on the Lawn
Northampton County
To honor the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this lecture is entitled “Prelude to Revolution” and will cover several events leading up to 1776. Come and hear about an early protest against taxation in Northampton County in 1652, Northampton’s answer to the Boston Tea Party of 1773 and more. Speaker: David Scott
June 4
Evening Book Talk at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
Hear from University of Miami professor Ashli White, author of “Revolutionary Things: Material Culture and Politics in the Late Eighteenth-Century Atlantic World.” In her book, Dr. White explores the power of material things and visual images to express the fervor and fear of the revolutionary era, using objects associated with the American, French, and Haitian revolutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions and have their books signed.
June 5
Born from Conflict – Religious Strife in Jamestown
Isle of Wight County
A look at the violence and discord of the 17th Century. This will focus on the religious tensions at Jamestown. Contrary to earlier belief, Jamestown was religiously very diverse and the differences were the cause of a great deal of tension and even violence. Perhaps a plot to murder? St Luke’s Education Coordinator John Ericson will examine the religious context at Jamestown and the implications of being “Born from Conflict.”
June 6
Conversation with a Curator
Virginia Beach
Learn how Virginia and Princess Anne County played an important role in the American Revolution, and the events that shaped colonial Virginia, specifically in the years 1774-76, leading up to the war. This will include the Intolerable Acts, Virginia’s reaction, the First Continental Congress, Lexington and Concord, the Williamsburg Gunpowder Incident, Patrick Henry’s March on Williamsburg, Lord Dunmore’s flight from Williamsburg, the appointment of General Washington, Virginia’s two independent rifle companies, the 3rd Virginia Convention, Tensions south of the James, Battle of Hampton, Battle of Kemp’s Landing, Battle of Great Bridge, Burning of Norfolk, and Gwynn’s Island.
Prince William Resolves Marker Dedication
Prince William County
The Prince William Resolves Chapter, NSDAR and the Prince William County Historical Commission are co-hosting a dedication of the Prince William Resolves historical marker on the exact anniversary of the passage of the Resolves.
June 7 – 9
Richmond Juneteenth 2024, A Freedom Celebration featuring the Black Book Expo
Richmond
Join Elegba Folklore Society at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture for a vast display of literature featuring topics including black history, social justice, science, health, African Diasporic culture, African spirituality, personal development, novels and children’s books. Short talks by independent authors and book signings, a keynote speaker, live performances plus the Freedom Market filled with unique finds, tasty food and beverages and highlighting the Get Woke Youth Summit compliment this conscious literary festival in observance of Juneteenth.
June 7
“If This Be Treason… The 1774 York County Resolves and the Liberty Pole” Lecture
York County
Governor Dunmore has dissolved the House of Burgesses, and the militia is ready to fight! Join us as we explore our shared history and begin the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution. This lecture is part of Yorktown Military Appreciation Weekend.
Movie in the Park: Johnny Tremain
Henrico County
The Henrico 250 Committee invites you to travel back in time as we watch the movie, Johnny Tremain. Follow in the footsteps of a teenage boy as he decides which path to take in the early days of the Revolutionary War, meeting spies, witnessing the Boston Tea Party, and seeing the first shots of the American Revolution. Activities will be offered before movie begins at sundown. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, flashlight and your family. Free popcorn and shaved ice while supplies last!
Tavern Night
Fredericksburg
Curious about the history of the Early American Republic’s favorite beverage? Relax around a table in the courtyard and learn from The Taverner how to make an authentic 19th-century Richmond punch recipe featuring equal parts Jamaican rum, Cognac brandy, and a special twist—Madeira wine. James Monroe will conclude the festivity with a special toast. After the tasting, enjoy a tour of the museum. Come raise a glass with a president!
June 8
Jack Jouett Day
Louisa County
Jack Jouett, the Paul Revere of the South, rode from Louisa County to Monticello to warn Thomas Jefferson and other Virginia legislatures of incoming British troops. We’re celebrating Jack Jouett’s ride with a festival from 11am to 5pm at Southern Revere Cellars. Step back in time with historical demonstrations, children’s activities, craft and food vendors, and more!
Resolve & Revolution – Marking the 250th Anniversary of the Prince William County Resolves
Prince William County
This free family-friendly program features an immersive play reenacting this lively June 1774 debate and also includes children’s activities, food, tours, and more. What are “the Prince William Resolves?” In the summer of 1774, the Virginia Colony was reeling from the news from Boston, Massachusetts. In response to the Boston Tea Party in December 1773, the British government had passed the Coercive Acts, known in the colonies as the “Intolerable Acts.” Prince William County became the first County in Virginia to formally protest these Acts, meeting on June 6, 1774 to pass the “Prince William Resolves.”
Declaration Day
Fairfax County
Help Gunston Hall commemorate the 248th anniversary of the Virginia Declaration of Rights. Join us all day for a variety of activities and opportunities including a special naturalization ceremony, museum theater performances, live music, and birthday cake for the Declaration. Check out the schedule to help you decide whether to stay all day or drop in for a portion of the festivities.
Descendants Day at Highland
Charlottesville
The Highland Council of Descendant Advisors welcomes anyone working on or interested in the histories of slavery, the shared work of making our present and future more equitable based on historical knowledge, and collaboration in research. Plan to share information, resources, and encouragement with others journeying on the same path. Space is available to display your community’s resources and stories.
13th Annual International Day of Remembrance
Hampton
Join The Sankofa Projects as they educate & celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora and bring awareness to this tragic chapter in American and global history. The program includes African drumming, songs, dance, poetry, historical presentations, and traditional African libation.
Tavern Night at Williams Ordinary
Prince William County
Join us at Williams Ordinary in the evening for our annual Tavern Night. Take a sip of history while learning about this historic tavern in Dumfries. Enjoy a unique experience in this local landmark by listening to colonial music, interacting with reenactors, and playing 18th-century games. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste a historically inspired brew from Water’s End paired with a themed menu from Dixie Bones BBQ.
Specialty Tours: Colonial Herbs & Spices
Alexandria
Colonists used herbs and spices in all aspects of their lives from cooking to medicinal. Join us in celebrating National Herb and Spice day with our specialty tours focusing on both native and imported herbs and spices that were used in colonial households.
June 8 – 9
Yorktown Military Appreciation Weekend
York County
Join us for a weekend-long patriotic salute to our Armed Forces as we celebrate the contributions of our American heroes both past and present. Enjoy live music, games, stories, special exhibits, and more! One of the highlighted events will be a re-enactment of the 1774 Militia Muster.
June 9
The Leedstown Resolutions – Connecting Consumerism and Revolution on the Northern Neck
Westmoreland County
The Leedstown Resolves were one of the first protests against the 1765 Stamp Act and influenced public opinion in other American colonies. In this engaging talk, Dr. Philip Levy explores how consumerism in the colonies shaped response to the Stamp Act, influenced revolutionary politics, and ultimately helped drive revolutionary sentiment on the Northern Neck. Dr. Levy is a Professor of History at the University of South Florida and is an Organization of American Historians Distinguished Lecturer.
June 10
Lunch at the Washington Presidential Library: Four Families Descended from Slaves Reflect of Stories of Strength, Love, and Gratitude
Fairfax County
Join us for lunch and a discussion with authors Lori Ann LaRocco and Abby Wallace, who will discuss their new book, Embracing Your Past to Empower Your Future: Four Families Descended from Slaves Reflect of Stories of Strength, Love, and Gratitude. This event is part of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon’s new Lunch at the Library series. A boxed lunch will be provided.
The Other Tea Parties
Orange County
The Boston Tea Party was not the only one. Throughout 1774 protests against tea unfolded up and down the east coast. Learn about these other, lesser known, tea parties as we commemorate their 250th anniversary. Presentation by Bert Dunkerly, author, historian, and member of the American Revolutionary War Round Table of Richmond.
Newport News Juneteenth Raising of the Flag
Newport News
Join us for the annual Juneteenth Raising of the Flag ceremony as it brings unity in the community while we wave the flag of freedom for the last enslaved African American in Galveston, Texas.
June 13
Red Hill Rediscovered: Archaeology of a Servant’s House
Charlotte County
Tune in to find out what we discovered in the first year of Red Hill’s archaeology program! Staff Archaeologist Lucia Butler will share our findings from last summer’s excavation of the servant’s house site, along with some of the artifacts discovered by archaeologists and volunteers. Learn about our fieldwork, enjoy a virtual tour of the new archaeology lab, and find out what archaeological questions we’re investigating next. This event will be streamed on Red Hill’s social media pages. Registration is required.
June 15
Louisa Juneteenth Festival
Louisa County
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. This event will be a celebration of freedom, Black history, culture, and will feature a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. Visitors can expect to enjoy live music, dance performances, historical exhibits, arts and crafts, food vendors, and more.
Henrico Juneteenth Celebrations
Henrico County
Join Henrico Recreation & Parks for a vendor fair, kids zone, food trucks, and entertainment.
Liberty Walks of Culpeper
Culpeper County
Did you know that Culpeper played an important role in supporting the revolutionary cause in Virginia and in the events that influenced American independence. Learn about the people, places, and events shaped by Culpeper’s patriots and see how these activities were written into the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and other founding documents in this downtown walking tour led by staff and volunteers of the Museum of Culpeper History. Stories include the Culpeper Minute Men, religious liberty, western expansion, and the meaning of freedom.
2024 Mattaponi Pow Wow
King William County
The Mattaponi Indian Reservation Pow Wow is a significant cultural event that celebrates our Native American heritage and traditions of the Mattaponi Tribe. A pow wow is our gathering that typically features dance, music, arts and crafts, food, and cultural exhibitions. It serves as a time for our tribal and community members to come together, reconnect with our roots, and share our traditions with others.
250th Anniversary of the Loudoun Resolves
Loudoun County
Join us for a celebration of the Loudoun Resolves, a protest against British oppression of the Colonies and protest against taxation without representation. There will be a presentation of what led to the Resolves, the impact, and the eventual outcome. The public will be invited to participate in reenacting the signing of the Loudoun Resolves.
June 16
Pittsylvania Third Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Pittsylvania County
Join us at the Third Annual Juneteenth Celebration at the Sharswood Manor Estate hosted by Duke Carter from WSLS 10. Enjoy live music by The Drive, hear from guest speakers, enjoy the food trucks, and explore the craft vendors. Join us for a day of community, culture, and commemoration.
Colonial Williamsburg: Sunrise Service
Williamsburg
To commemorate the triumphant spirit of the African American journey, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation will host its second annual Juneteenth Sunrise Service on Sunday morning, June 16, at 6 a.m. at the majestic Compton Oak on Market Square. This landmark tree symbolizes life, endurance, shelter, and joy. Special keynote address by world-renowned poet and writer Nikki Giovanni.
Pulaski Fourth Annual Juneteenth Event
Pulaski County
Enjoy a day of learning and entertainment. The schedule includes a performance by the local drummers, dancing, a unique Sankofa Bird Bingo event, cornbread eating contest, book give away, kite flying, lecture by Dr. Kerri Mosely-Hobbs on her ancestors Thomas and Othello Fraction of the 40th USCT, and the event culminates with a presentation and music by acclaimed fiddle player Earl White. A fundraiser raffle of a handmade banjo, 1942 pieced quilt, and stay at the newly renovated Inn at Fosters Fall are up for grabs for participants. This is a family friendly educational event with many community partners working together to present.
June 17
Colonial Williamsburg: Master Blacksmith Panel Discussion
Williamsburg
New Orleans restoration and preservation field leaders Jonn Hankins, Darryl Reeves, and Karina Roca will discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field of Historic Preservation and the restoration trades. The panel discussion will be led by Ken Schwarz, master blacksmith with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
Colonial Williamsburg: Communal Quilt Project
Williamsburg
Patchwork quilts date back many centuries and have been found in all cultures across the world. Generations of people recycled discarded fabric remnants into quilts, reinvigorating them with new life in geometric patterns. The fabric fragments each held a story of the family history. In antebellum America, sewing circles, comprised mostly of women, gathered to pass knowledge to younger generations, talk, gossip, and strategize. The Communal Quilt Project is an arts experiential initiative designed to work with all genders, ages, and ethnicities to create a giant quilt. The project is designed to replicate aspects of the sewing circle in a series of hands-on workshops. Participants will be guided through the process of creating faux patchwork narrative quilt sections.
June 18
Colonial Williamsburg: Freedom Making in Williamsburg
Williamsburg
The Williamsburg Bray School Initiative will host a conversation to explore how which individuals made freedom for themselves in Williamsburg, past and present. Meet with descendants, historians, and other community members as they share how freedom-making shaped those associated with the Bray School Community and beyond.
Colonial Williamsburg: Portraying the Ancestors
Williamsburg
Join us for an insightful panel discussion where we delve into the complexities and challenges of portraying enslaved women in historical narratives. Moderated by storyteller and historic interpreter Sheila Arnold, this conversation will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the perspectives, struggles, and triumphs of women who take on the profound responsibility of bringing the stories of enslaved women to life.
June 18 – 19
Colonial Williamsburg: Meeting with Master Blacksmith, Darryl Reeves
Williamsburg
Join us in celebration of Juneteenth at the Public Armoury for talks and demonstrations by Master Blacksmith Darryl Reeves, a third-generation metal worker and owner of Andrew’s Welding & Blacksmith Shop in New Orleans’ Seventh Ward. In addition to his contemporary furniture and decorative art creations, Reeves is the most celebrated architectural blacksmith in the Gulf South. He is especially renowned for his meticulous, historically accurate wrought iron restorations of antique fences, gates, balcony railings, and window grilles in the French Quarter and beyond. Reeves is reviving the traditions of New Orleans’ 18th- and 19th-century African American ironworkers by transmitting his vast institutional knowledge and trade skills to a new generation of apprentices through the New Orleans Master Crafts Guild.
June 19
Juneteenth at Red Hill
Charlotte County
Come and enjoy Juneteenth, Wednesday, June 19, with free admission to Patrick Henry’s Red Hill. Quarter Place Tours will be available. Cookies and lemonade will be provided! Pack a picnic, bring your family, and enjoy the grounds.
Alexandria Juneteenth Celebration
Alexandria
Discover the history of Juneteenth through hands-on activities, art, history, and poetry readings at the Carlyle House Museum.
Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
At this family day, learners of all ages can discover how Ona Judge, Christopher Sheels, and many other men and women enslaved at Mount Vernon defined their agency and the legacies they left behind.
Colonial Williamsburg: Permission to be Free
Williamsburg
Join Sheila Arnold on an extraordinary storytelling journey as she invites you to embrace the power of hope, resilience, and the unyielding desire for freedom. Give yourself permission to be moved, inspired, and ultimately, free. Through Permission to Be Free: A Juneteenth Story, Sheila takes on the roles of a husband and wife from Galveston, Texas, in a poignant portrayal of their journey toward freedom.
Colonial Williamsburg: Answer the Call Drum Circle
Williamsburg
Much of African Music is based on call and response. The drum is the first to announce itself and send a message bringing the community together. As the drum calls, the community is expected to respond by playing back to the drummer or hollering out by voice. How will you answer the call?
June 20
2024 Annual Martha Washington Lecture: Remember the First Ladies
Fairfax County
As the wife of the nation’s first president, Martha Washington truly defined the new role of First Lady of the United States. Hear how she and other First Ladies influenced American society, policy, diplomacy, and life, and how many of them broke barriers to make a mark on our country and, at times, the world.
June 22
John Rolfe, First-Person Interpretation Talk
Hanover County
John Rolfe set sail for Virginia in 1609. Despite being shipwrecked in Bermuda, he later made it to the devasted Jamestown colony. Contrary to the widespread myth that Pocahontas had a romance with Captain John Smith, her real romance was with Rolfe. Learn of Rolfe’s adventures, his life in the New World, and his entrepreneurial successes as told by the man himself.
Newport News Juneteenth Celebration: Freedom Festival
Newport News
A community festival featuring musical entertainment, food and craft vendors, informational exhibits, and children’s activities.
Spencer’s Ordinary Wreath Ceremony
James City County
The Williamsburg Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a memorial service in honor of the valiant Americans who gave their lives in the Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary on June 26, 1781. A series of skirmishes occurred in the woods and meadows of Freedom Park between units of Lord Cornwallis and those of the French General, Marquis de Lafayette. Immediately following the Spencer’s Ordinary wreath ceremony, enjoy a presentation on the history of the battle in the Freedom Park Interpretive Center.
Betty Washington’s Birthday Party
Fredericksburg
We celebrate George every year in February, but let’s not forget about his sister. Betty Washington Lewis was born on June 20, 1733. Come help us celebrate her 291st birthday at her home, Historic Kenmore! Have a Crumbl cookie and a cup of tea. Learn about life as a lady in the 18th century – their games, hobbies, fashion, and more.
Lantern Tour with Patrick Henry Jolly
Charlotte County
Patrick Henry’s 5th great grandson will show visitors around the historic grounds including the Quarter Place Trail & Cemetery, the Henry House, and the Henry Family Gravesite.
June 23
Chief Justice John Marshall Remembered
Richmond
The Richmond Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) will host a Virginia SAR ceremony honoring Revolutionary War Veteran and Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court John Marshall. The ceremony, featuring the Virginia SAR Color Guard (all dressed in Revolutionary War period uniforms), will be held at Chief Justice Marshall’s gravesite in Shockoe Hill Cemetery – Richmond, Virginia. Multiple Virginia SAR, DAR and other historical organizations will be on hand to render honors to this American hero. Chief Justice Marshall is perhaps best known for asserting the judiciary’s authority to hold the other branches of government accountable to the U.S. Constitution.
Virginia Living Museum Juneteenth Celebration
Newport News
Join us as we explore the natural resources of Virginia’s waterways and their role in freedom with interactive exhibits and activities. From a resource guide to team-building challenges, we commemorate Juneteenth with the theme “Living the Dream: Together We Make the Dream Work.” Don’t miss out on this day of learning, collaboration, and celebration.
June 27
Conversation with a Curator
Virginia Beach
Talk will discuss events in Virginia, starting with the arrival of Benedict Arnold as a British commander in December 1780, and cover his actions up the James River and his occupation of Portsmouth. There will be several stories to tell about the occupation and action in Princess Anne County.
June 28
Educator Field Trip & Seminar
Fairfax County
Are you an educator with a love of history? Join the Virginia Council for the Social Studies (VCSS) for a full-day field trip to the Patrick Henry National Memorial focusing on telling the “complete” history of Red Hill. All educators are welcome!
June 28 – 29
Independence Fireworks at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
Watch a dazzling fireworks show at George Washington’s estate! On June 28 and 29, relax on the east lawn and watch fireworks soar over the Potomac River. Enjoy live musical performances, and attend an evening wreath laying at George Washington’s Tomb.
June 30
The Situation Room Roleplaying Experience: Washington’s Cabinet
Fairfax County
Step back in time to 1790s Philadelphia with the roleplaying experience of the Situation Room. During this 75-minute game, your actions will decide the fate of our young nation. Players will be faced with domestic and international crises during George Washington’s second term as president and will work together to decide on a course of action. New information is received in real-time, and the group must quickly adapt in response to a changing environment. The Situation Room is suitable for high school students and adults.