MAY 2024 EVENTS NEWSLETTER
The Revolutionary Rumble
Attention, history buffs and liberty lovers! The May edition of the Revolutionary Rumble is here, ready to whisk you back to a time of brave colonists and the fight for independence. In this issue, we’ll delve into inspiring tales of heroism, explore captivating historic landmarks, and commemorate the unwavering spirit that forged a nation. So, grab your tricorn hats and sharpen your quill pens – it’s time for a revolutionary adventure. But don’t forget to mark these exciting events on your calendar first!
May 1
Supreme Court Lecture Series at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
Join the Supreme Court Historical Society and the Washington Presidential Library for two lectures focused on George Washington, the history of the U.S. Supreme Court, and the nation’s founding. After each lecture, enjoy a reception with complimentary beer, wine, and hors-d’oeuvres.
May 2
Attic to Cellar Tour at Scotchtown
Fairfax County
Have you ever wanted to wander through Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown appreciating the architecture of this 300-year-old house? Have you longed to see parts of the house not usually open to the public? To celebrate Historic Preservation Month in May, you can explore Scotchtown from the attic to the cellar with historic interpreters.
May 3
History & Hops
Hanover County
Stroll through the times of the Revolutionary War period, travel back in time through lively chats about history with Hanover historical organizations, partake in the Parsons Cause reenactment or strike up a conversation with Patrick Henry, all while enjoying a pint of your favorite beer.
May 4
Spring Festival at Historic Eppington
Chesterfield County
This piece of Chesterfield County’s history, built in 1768, will be open for the public to view and enjoy. Historic house tours will be available throughout the day by docents, a wide array of historic trades will be demonstrated, music of the time period, a historic grazing display with sheep and goats, and a timeline of Virginia history covering from when the Appamatuck Tribe resided along the river to the American Civil War.
Spring at the Tavern
Pittsylvania County
The Pittsylvania Historical Society is presenting “Spring at the Tavern,” at the historic Yates Tavern. This fun, educational, and family-friendly event will feature tours of the tavern, colonial and Revolutionary War era reenactors and living historians, music, food and more. The event is free and open to the public.
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.
Mathews County Goes Back in Time with the Colonial Williamsburg Fife & Drum Corps
Mathews County
The performance by the Fife & Drum Corps will signal the beginning of a two-year countdown to the nation’s 250th birthday, July 4, 2026. This kickoff event will also showcase appearances by the last seated British Royal Governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, and the patriot who took action to expel the governor, General Andrew Lewis.
May Fair 2024: A Rural Life
Mathews County
Mathews High School freshman and member of the Mathews County VA250 Committee Hunter Owens will be releasing his new album of patriotic music. Owens will perform live on stage that morning, donating a portion of the proceeds to the Committee’s ongoing efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. The VA250 Committee will also host an information booth with pamphlets, T-shirts, VA250 collectibles, and other items. The Colonial Williamsburg Fife & Drum Corps will appear at closing ceremonies.
Preservation Tour at Stratford Hall: Behind the Scenes
Westmoreland County
Join the Stratford Hall’s Director of Preservation & Maintenance for a Preservation Tour of the Great House. The tour will focus on the main floor of the house and the most recent room restoration projects that span the past 15 years. The exterior and lower level will also be discussed. If you have ever wondered what it takes to preserve and restore a historic house like the Great House, now is your chance to hear the stories. You might even be able to see areas that are not normally seen by visitors. What better way is there to celebrate Preservation Month!
May 4 – 5
Revolutionary War Weekend at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
Step back in time during a Revolutionary War encampment at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon’s serene 12-acre field transforms into a battleground as Continentals, Redcoats, and Hessians conduct military drills, demonstrations, and engage in 18th-century tacticals. Visit with camp followers and walk through a recreation of George Washington’s War Tent.
May 5
Little-known American Revolution Shipyard Commemorated
Charles City County
The Richmond Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) will dedicate a historical marker commemorating the Berkeley Plantation Shipyard, which produced 18 warships for the patriot cause. The ceremony, featuring the Virginia SAR Color Guard (all dressed in Revolutionary War period uniforms), will be held at Berkeley Plantation – home of founding father, Continental Congress committee chair, and Declaration of Independence signer Benjamin Harrison.
Indigenous Perspectives on the Northern Neck and Power of Place
Richmond County
The Rappahannock People have inhabited the Northern Neck since the beginning. It holds a special place in the Rappahannock story and contains some of the most spiritually and historically significant places to the Tribe. In this talk, Chief Anne Richardson graciously shares her thoughts on the Northern Neck and Power of Place.
130th Anniversary Wreath Laying
Fredericksburg
A free community event to honor America’s First Mother, Mary Ball Washington, on the grounds of the Mary Washington Monument. The Mary Washington Monument was dedicated in 1894 by women for a woman, the first of its kind in the United States. This commemorative program will include a keynote address by Laura Galke, live music, presentation of the colors by the Spotsylvania JROTC, tours of the Caretaker’s Lodge, and a Mother’s Day wreath laying by Mayor Kerry Devine.
May 7
La Musique de la Garde Nationale Parisienne
Alexandria
In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824-25 tour of the United States, enjoy a lecture/concert of music from Lafayette’s lifetime performed on early 19th-century instruments. Join researchers and historical-performance specialists Dominic Giardino (historical clarinets) and Dr. Chris Troiano (serpent) to experience the music that underscored Lafayette’s French Revolutionary career.
May 9
Naturalization Ceremony
York County
Join in a celebration of new American citizens during a naturalization ceremony hosted by the Yorktown Comte de Grasse Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in partnership with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security.
Evening with an Expert: The Marquis de Lafayette
Fredericksburg
The Marquis de Lafayette was a committed abolitionist, and often urged his American friends to end the system of slavery. He joined the French abolitionist organization “Society of the Friends of the Blacks,” and often advocated for Black emancipation in his correspondence with Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington. Dr. Gaila Sims, Curator of African American History and Special Projects, will speak about the Marquis’s abolitionist influences and his beliefs on the institution of slavery.
Historically Speaking: Explorer
Henrico County
Historian Robert M. Dunkerly will discuss his most recent book, “An Explorer’s Guide to the American Revolutionary War.” This handbook offers information about hundreds of historic sites and includes detailed battlefield maps and directions for nine walking tours of revolutionary cities. Dunkerly is an award-winning author who has worked at nine historic sites and written 11 books. He is currently a Park Ranger at Richmond National Battlefield Park (U.S. National Park Service).
The Pursuit of Happiness by Jeffrey Rosen
Fairfax County
The Declaration of Independence identified “the pursuit of happiness” as one of our unalienable rights, along with life and liberty. Jeffrey Rosen profiles six of the founders to show what pursuing happiness meant in their lives.
May 10
Cocktails by Candlelight
Fairfax County
Sip on period cocktails as you learn about 18th-century mixed drinks and snacks in the heart of the historic property. Sit and chat with friends and spouses in our Kitchen yard, and experience the serenity of Mason Neck during an exclusive candlelight tour.
Town of Dumfries 275th Anniversary Gala
Prince William County
The Town of Dumfries and the Weems-Botts Museum invite you to celebrate the 275th anniversary of Virginia’s oldest chartered town. This black tie dinner & celebration will inaugurate this weekend of historic events with keynote speeches by local dignitaries, historical presentations on Dumfries’ intriguing history as a port town, and a commemorative program.
Naturalization Ceremony at Red Hill
Campbell County
The Patrick Henry National Memorial will host its annual Naturalization Ceremony on the beautiful grounds of Red Hill, Henry’s last home and burial place, overlooking the Staunton River. No venue is more fitting for welcoming new citizens to the United States than the home of Patrick Henry. It was Henry’s impassioned plea of “Give me liberty or give me death!” that has endured as the world’s most famous cry for freedom. That cry and the events it inspired attract immigrants and refugees alike who believe in the freedoms on which our nation was formed.
May 11
Remembering the Enslaved Families of Mount Vernon
Fairfax County
Learn about the enslaved families at George Washington’s Mount Vernon with a guided tour, family activity, and ceremonial remembrance for all ages. Bring your own family stories of love and loss that connect you to the past, and learn about the families of Boatswain and Myrtilla, Hercules and Alice, and other families who suffered the loss of loved ones.
Josiah Parker’s 273rd Birthday
Isle of Wight County
Born in 1751 in Isle of Wight County, Josiah Parker was an American politician, Revolutionary War officer and Virginia planter who served in the U.S. House of Representatives. The lecture will highlight his life, career and influence on Isle of Wight County.
Dumfries 275th Charter Day Anniversary Festival
Prince William County
Celebrate the 275th anniversary of Virginia’s oldest chartered town. This free, family-friendly day will be full of historical games and activities, local history displays, and performances by historical reenactors!
Games in the Garden
Fredericksburg
Enjoy games as they were in the 18th Century! While some we don’t hear much about today, others we know by different names. Guests will have the chance to decorate their own paper hand fan to keep them cool.
Claude Moore Park Open Houses
Mathews County
The Courthouse Community Orchestra, under the direction of Senior Airman Jarrett Kocan of the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, will perform traditional American music through the ages. Join us on the green to memorialize the 248th anniversary of the May 15 creation of Virginia’s Declaration of Independence.
May 17
In Time: A Revolutionary Riddle
Leesburg
Travel back to the time of the American Revolution in Loudoun County. You will interact with historic characters, solve puzzles, and finish tasks to complete a critical quest. Channel your inner detective and collaborate with your group to get the clues and information you need from the historic characters, real and fictional, to solve this history mystery. Each character you’ll meet has a unique list of tasks to complete, so be sure to carefully consider which characters you’ll want to help or hinder.
May 17 – 18
Restoration Behind the Scenes Tours
Bedford County
Forty years ago, the octagonal villa at Poplar Forest looked quite different than it does today. Since 1989, using Jefferson’s documents and letters as his guide, Poplar Forest’s Restoration Department have worked to restore the villa to its Jefferson-era appearance. See the recently completed frieze in the parlor entablature, the restored fireplaces and the freshly repainted interior, and learn about the meticulous restoration of what Jefferson affectionately called the “Best dwelling house in the state…” on an hour-long tour guided with Austin Englund, Restoration Supervisor.
May 17 – 19
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Spring Wine Festival & Sunset Tour
Fairfax County
Taste unlimited samples of wines from Virginia’s finest wineries at Mount Vernon’s Spring Wine Festival. Relax on the east lawn overlooking the Potomac River as you experience George Washington’s estate after hours.
May 18
Friendship Firehouse 250th Anniversary Muster
Alexandria
Join in for a muster of over 15 antique, hand-drawn firefighting apparatus. Participating vehicles will include 19th-century suction fire engines and hose reel carriages. Suction engines, invented in the early 19th century, drew water from wells, hydrants, and other sources through a hose, and provided a powerful and constant stream of water.
Descendants Day at Scotchtown
Hanover County
Scotchtown is continuing to grow its descendant community of those who lived or worked on the property, and we invite anyone who may have a connection to Scotchtown for an annual gathering! An exciting day is planned just for you, featuring a special curatorial tour, a number of special guests and presentations, including Peighton Young, Historian and Project Consultant at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill, and much more.
“Escape to Freedom” Annual Contraband Commemorative
Hampton
This event will pay tribute to the first three enslaved men, Frank Baker, Shepard Mallory, and James Townsend to self-emancipate at Fort Monroe in May of 1861. Their actions inspired Union General Benjamin Franklin Butler to make an unprecedented decision to grant them sanctuary. As a result, Fort Monroe and Hampton became the first “safe” destination for thousands of enslaved people in their fight for freedom during the Civil War.
America 250 Patriots Marker Dedication
Botetourt County
Dedication of an America 250 Patriots Marker by the Botetourt County Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter.
Liberty Walks of Culpeper
Culpeper County
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.
Court Day: Widow Rand Seeks Justice
Isle of Wight County
Guilty or Innocent? What is the verdict? This Court Day event brings to life a colonial court room. Those who attend the reenactment observe a real court case that was tried in the 1750 Isle of Wight County Courthouse during the 18th Century.
Discover Alexandria Architecture Walking Tour
Alexandria
Alexandria has grown from a small town in the 18th century to a bustling small city in the 21st century. Join a tour of the various architecture styles that adorn the city streets and make it one of the best places to live and work.
May 19
Lafayette Returns to Hanover
Hanover County
The Marquis de Lafayette recalls his experiences in America during the Revolution and on his return 200 years ago in 1824. Lafayette is portrayed by the talented actor, Mark Schneider, who combines history with theater and is well-known for his entertaining and informative interpretations of historic characters.
Preserving Carlyle House: Open House
Alexandria
With the destruction of the Mansion House Hotel in the 1970s and an extensive restoration by NOVA Parks, Carlyle House reemerged into Alexandria’s line of sight as one of the grandest buildings in Old Town. During your self-guided experience, learn about some of the early museum history, see photographs of the restoration, and admire some of the objects found by the restoration team.
Descendants Day
Surry County
It’s a family reunion! Do you have a connection to Bacon’s Castle? Did your ancestor live or work here? We have a special day planned just for you with special tours, a presentation from our curator of collections, an update on preservation projects and a chance to meet distant relatives.
May 21
Researching Your Roots – An Introduction to Genealogy
Culpeper County
earn all about tracing your family tree! Want to find your Revolutionary War ancestor before the 250th anniversary of American independence? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this event is perfect for anyone interested in uncovering their family history. Discover tips, tricks, and resources to help you on your genealogy journey.
May 23
Sheila Arnold Presents Oney Judge
Chesapeake
Character interpreter Sheila Arnold presents the life and story of Oney Judge, the personal maidservant to Martha Washington who escaped slavery.
Prelude to Yorktown 1781 — Lafayette vs. Cornwallis in Virginia
Culpeper County
Andrew Gutowski discusses the road to surrender. The culmination of the Revolutionary War came in Virginia in 1781. To most people this means the October siege and victory at Yorktown. However, there is a bigger story of an intricate cat and mouse campaign of British vs American forces preceding Yorktown. It includes a great cast of characters, including Lafayette, Washington, Cornwallis, Benedict Arnold and Thomas Jefferson. Culpeper figures in the story of 1781, with echoes down to the present.
An Evening with Brent Tarter
Richmond
Brent Tarter is a retired research historian and senior editor at the Library of Virginia. He was one of the founders of the Library’s Dictionary of Virginia Biography project; a co-founder of the Virginia Forum; the annual Virginia history conference; and one of the consultants for Liberty or Death, the educational video St. John’s Church and, what was then WCVE, produced in 2007. He is the author, co-author, editor, or co-editor of 18 volumes on various topics in Virginia history as well as numerous articles in scholarly and popular historical journals.
May 24
Virginia’s History – A Call to Fasting and Prayer
Washington County
May 24, 1774 – in response to Parliament imposing new coercive laws on the colonists, the Virginia House of Burgesses declared a Day of Fasting and Prayer. Join us as historic interpreters tell of this act of non-violent opposition that triggered an ‘electric shock’ that sparked our struggle for independence.
May 24 – 25
The Day is Past and Gone
Bedford County
Playwright Teresa Harris’s original drama returns to Jefferson’s south lawn for two performances only. Drawn from real-life experiences of the men and women who were enslaved at Poplar Forest, the trilogy explores the complexity of their lives and their struggles to survive.
May 25
Memorial Day Weekend: Rebellions & Revolutions
Staunton
Rebellions and Revolutions will bring living historians from around the country to the Frontier Culture Museum to represent the many rebel movements that have shaped, and been shaped by, American History.
May 25 – 26
Upper Mattaponi’s 35th Annual Pow Wow
King William County
Join the Mattaponi Tribe for their 35th Annual Pow Wow featuring dancing, drumming and vendors.
May 26
Summer Series: Liberty or Death Reenactment
Richmond
Witness Patrick Henry convince his fellow delegates to take up arms against the king!
May 27
Wreath Laying at the Hugh Mercer Monument
Fredericksburg
A hero of the Revolutionary War, Hugh Mercer served as a brigadier general under George Washington and practiced as a physician in Fredericksburg from about 1761 to 1776. There will be a bagpipe accompaniment as part of a ceremony to honor General Mercer’s sacrifice to our liberty at the Battle of Princeton in 1777.
May 29
Patrick Henry’s 288th Birthday
Campbell County
Enjoy free birthday cake and lemonade while you tour the property. Docents will provide guided tours, and our director of historic preservation & collections will showcase artifacts rarely on display. This is an all-day event. A special ceremony will be held at Henry’s grave featuring a uniformed color guard from the Sons of the American Revolution Patrick Henry Chapter.
May 31 – June 2
The 2024 Mount Vernon Symposium
Fairfax County
The symposium will explore the art and architecture of the British Atlantic in the eighteenth century, highlighting the connections and comparisons of British and American practices in the years preceding and surrounding the American Revolution. Join leading curators, historians and preservation experts as they examine the diffusion of British style and tastes, from Boston to Charleston, and from England and Ireland, to the Caribbean and the Chesapeake.