SEPTEMBER 2024 EVENTS NEWSLETTER
The Revolutionary Rumble
September 1
Fairfax County
All the President’s Pups Dog Tour
Bring your dog along on this 1.25-mile walking tour and explore canine life at Mount Vernon. The tour stops at five historic locations, including the historic west gate. Along the way learn about George Washington’s love for dogs, his dogs’ unusual names, and his efforts to improve the quality of his hunting dogs through breeding.
Montgomery County
250th Anniversary of Dunmore’s War – Southern Division
This encampment will portray a volunteer company of Virginians making up part of the Southern Division of troops led by Colonel Andrew Lewis for Dunmore’s War in late summer 1774 on the spot where they originally encamped. Lewis’ division traveled north (downstream) on the Kanawha River through what is now West Virginia and clashed with Shawnee forces at Point Pleasant in a day-long battle on October 10.
September 5
Fredericksburg
Lafayette Lecture Series: Lafayette’s First Visits to Fredericksburg: 1781 and 1784
The George Washington Foundation is proud to sponsor a lecture by public historian and author Elizabeth Reese. She will discuss her book, “Marquis de Lafayette Returns: A Tour of America’s National Capitol Region,” and Lafayette’s first visit to Fredericksburg, sharing insights on why Lafayette’s legacy still resonates today.
September 5, 19
Culpeper County
English Country Dance Class in Culpeper
Step back in time at The Stables of Mountain Run Winery and experience the elegance and charm of historical dances. Come as you are or dress in period attire while you twirl away to traditional tunes. These classes are perfect for beginners to seasoned dancers – all will be able to enjoy the evening at their pace. These lessons will prepare dancers for the 200th Anniversary of the Lafayette Ball in Culpeper August 23, 2025 (1 year away!).
Through September 6
Isle of Wight County
The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette: A Traveling Exhibit
The American Friends of Lafayette’s traveling exhibit tells the important stories of Lafayette’s life and legacy including his American Revolution participation, his critical role in cementing the Franco-American Alliance, his lifelong passion for human rights and his return as Guest of the Nation in 1824-1825. Also highlighted are efforts of the American Friends of Lafayette to commemorate this bicentennial in 2024-2025. The final day of the exhibit is Lafayette’s 267th birthday. The Isle of Wight County museum will host Frank Womble of the American Friends of Lafayette for a lecture and birthday celebration.
September 7
Fairfax County
Fall Plant and Garden Sale
The same plants grown at George Washington’s estate can now adorn your garden. Shop for plants, perennials, shrubs, and trees grown in the Mount Vernon greenhouses. The exclusive General’s Choice Plant Line features plants propagated from seeds or cuttings collected from plants growing on George Washington’s estate.
Virginia Beach
243rd Battle of the Virginia Capes Commemoration
The Norfolk Chapter of the VASSAR will be celebrating the 243rd Anniversary of the Battle of the Virginia Capes on September 7th this year. This is the first year that this event has been designated as a NSSAR national event.
September 7 – 8
Isle of Wight County
Born from Conflict: A 17th Century Living History Event
The 17th century was a time of violent upheaval and social unrest. St Luke’s Historic Church & Museum will be examining the Colonial conflicts in this living history event with reenactors, a period concert and presentations. Come and enjoy this free event and learn more about the time before our nation’s founding. There will be period vendors, demonstrations, and more available. Reenactors will also be present throughout the days.
James City County
The Ancestor’s Future: An Afrofuturist’s Journey Through Time
Cheyney McKnight, artist, historian and founder/owner of “Not Your Momma’s History,” will share a curated experience through Black America’s past to an imagined future. Her exhibit, on view at Jamestown Settlement for one weekend only, explores her approach to Afrofuturism; one in which Black bodies and communities finally reap the full benefits of their labor, resources, ingenuity and creativity.
Staunton
Lord Dunmore’s War Weekend
Before the American Revolution began in 1775, the roar of guns and the beat of drums could already be heard beyond the Blue Ridge. 250 years ago, in 1774, western Virginia was engaged in America’s last “colonial” conflict, Lord Dunmore’s War. Starting in Staunton, the men of Augusta, led by Colonel Andrew Lewis, marched west on an expedition to war with the Shawnee. Many of the men who would become Virginia’s heroes of the American Revolution marched with him, perhaps with ideas of American liberty already in their thoughts. Join the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia as they explore the many facets of this often-overlooked conflict on Virginia’s frontier.
York County
1781 Yorktown Before the Siege
Take a step back in time to see what life was like in the British Camp before the arrival of the American and French forces on September 28, 1781. Yorktown’s Historic Main Street will be transformed with military drills, camp life demonstrations, costumed interpreters, and more.
September 7 – 22
Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg: Homeschool Days
During these special times, homeschoolers and their families can discover history brought to life at a special discounted rate. Join us to visit the historic sites where Revolutionary ideas were shaped, meet the tradespeople whose craftsmanship supported the War for Independence, and so much more. Use virtual tours, educational videos, activity sheets, and behind-the-scenes blogs to supplement your visit.
September 7, 14, 21, 28
Fairfax County
George Washington Whiskey Tasting
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. You will sample 3 distilled spirits, hear about the history of distilling spirits, and tour George Washington’s reconstructed gristmill and distillery.
September 8
Gloucester County
James Armistead Lafayette- Sunday Speaker Series
This special presentation will transport attendees back to the Revolutionary War era, offering a unique glimpse into the life of Lafayette, an enslaved African American who became a hero for his invaluable contributions as a spy for the Continental Army. Stephen Seals, renowned for his engaging and educational performances, will embody Lafayette’s spirit and share his remarkable story of bravery, intelligence, and perseverance.
September 9
Alexandria
Author Talk: Marquis de Lafayette Returns
In 1824, a beloved hero of the American Revolution returned to America for the first time in forty years. From August 1824 to September 1825, the Marquis de Lafayette traveled throughout the United States, welcomed by thousands of admirers at each stop along the way. Although the tour brought him to each state in the Union, a significant portion of his time was spent in the National Capital Region, including the city of Alexandria. Public historian Elizabeth Reese will discuss her new book “Marquis de Lafayette Returns: A Tour of America’s National Capital Region,” tracing Lafayette’s route throughout the National Capital Region and highlighting the locations and people the famous General held closest to his heart.
September 9 – 21
Chesterfield County
American Revolution Experience – A Traveling Exhibit
This free exhibit, sponsored by Daughters of the American Revolution and American Battlefield Trust, connects modern audiences with the fascinating story of our nation’s origin. An opening reception will be held on September 9. The display panels and interactive digital kiosks 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.
September 10
Albemarle County
Pursuits of Knowledge
Monticello introduces “Pursuits of Knowledge,” a series of dynamic conversations with leading thinkers exploring Thomas Jefferson’s world, ideas, and legacy. Working in disciplines and genres ranging from biography and political history to young adult fiction, this fall’s speakers discuss their work and approaches to engaging the past in the present. Food and beverage, including award-winning Jefferson Vineyards wine, will be available for purchase. Book signing with the author is included.
Fairfax County
Lunch at the Library: Profiles in Character
Join for lunch and a discussion with author Jennifer London, who will discuss her new book, “Profiles in Character: Sixteen Americans and the Traits that Defined Them.” London’s new publication delves into individual character attributes that shaped and informed these important Americans in their vital roles in history.
September 11
Norfolk
“The Nation’s Guest” NHS Lecture
Chris Melhuish will provide an overview of Lafayette’s historic visit to Norfolk in 1824 and outline the series of events planned to commemorate the occasion in Norfolk in October. The lecture is hosted by the Norfolk Historical Society (NHS). Period attire is welcome.
September 12
Albemarle County
Home Educators’ Day
The homeschool community is invited to come and engage with this important part of history through engaging indoor and outdoor hands-on activity stations. Visitors will learn about the impact of Thomas Jefferson as an influential figure in early American history, about Monticello as an iconic architectural feat, and about the lives and skills of the enslaved community who worked to shape this landscape in many critical ways.
Fairfax County
Ford Evening Book Talk: Making the Presidency
Hear from Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, the new Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library and author of “Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents that Forged the Republic.” Dr. Chervinsky’s new book is an authoritative exploration of the second U.S. presidency, a period critical to the survival of the American Republic. This book shows how John Adams’s leadership and legacy defined the office for those who followed and ensured the survival of the American republic. The event will be followed by a book signing and reception.
Loudoun County
The Heroes of Brandywine
1777 was a crucial year for General Washington and the Continental Army. As they faced down the British Army at the Battle of Brandywine, Fauquier, Prince William, and Loudoun County, men of the 3rd Virginia Continental Regiment fought with vigor against an onslaught of British troops. Their defiant stand helped win crucial time for Washington’s army and may have saved the American cause. Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Director of Education Travis Shaw will lead a discussion of these Piedmont soldiers and their role in this climactic moment in the 1777 Philadelphia Campaign.
September 12, 17
Chesterfield County
Finding and Proving Your Revolutionary War Ancestors
Do you have ancestors that fought or supported the American Revolutionary War? Learn how to successfully research and document their lineage and service.
September 13
Chesterfield County
“The Revolutionary Roots of Southwest Virginia” Exhibit Opening
This exhibit highlights the role Southwest Virginians, and the region, played in events leading up to and during the American Revolution. Refreshments will be served and period Virginia militiamen will be on hand to engage visitors.
September 14
Albemarle County
September Plant Sale at Monticello
Join the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants (CHP) for a seasonal plant sale. The Monticello nursery will have a variety of flowers, trees, shrubs, and seeds available for purchase. Knowledgeable nursery staff will be on hand to answer your gardening questions.
Bedford County
Roots and Reconnection: Celebrating Our Story
Join Poplar Forest’s African American Advisory Group, interpretation and archaeology staff, and the Board of Directors to celebrate, recognize and remember the men, women and children of the enslaved community at Poplar Forest. This family-oriented event features musical performances, historic interpreters, and more on the grounds of Poplar Forest.
Chesapeake
Constitution Family Fun Day
Visit the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum for a fun family event to learn about the Constitution and what it means today. Enjoy children’s crafts, activities, historical displays, and more.
Chesterfield County
Fiddles, Fifes, and Frolics: Music of Colonial Virginia
Join several costumed interpreters on a day of frivolity as they explore how Virginians of the 17th and 18th centuries experienced music in their daily lives. These experts will demonstrate for you how the Powhatan Indians, English colonial settlers, and Virginians up to the American Revolution heard, played, and created a musical world around themselves. Come see demonstrations of period music and try your hand at instruments from the time to see if you would have what it takes to play music in colonial Virginia.
Goochland County
Run to the Revolution 5K
The racecourse is on the beautiful Elk Hill Farm. Most of the race is offroad, but on flat level ground. This race will be a great opportunity to run on a historical farm once owned by Thomas Jefferson and where British General Cornwallis last camped before heading to his surrender in Yorktown.
Fairfax County
Colonial Market & Fair at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Step back in time at Colonial Market & Fair, featuring food and wares made by colonial artisans. Hear live music from the colonial era, play 18th-century games, and watch artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques. Artisans from across the nation will be selling their creations, ranging from hand blown glass, metalwork, and reproduction 18th-century goods.
Henrico County
Meet Francis Scott Key: Author of The Star-Spangled Banner
As dawn arrived 210 years ago today, Francis Scott Key witnessed the American flag still flying over Fort McHenry. Key was inspired to write the words to what would become known as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Join costumed historian, Charles Wissinger, as he portrays Francis Scott Key and shares the story of how our national anthem began.
September 15
Loudoun County
Patriot Picnic
Hosted by Cameron Parish Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Through September 15
York County
Homeschool Family Days
Homeschool students and families will love discovering the sights and sounds of the 17th and 18th centuries while learning about their nation’s history. Education stations at each museum will allow families to interact with museum educators as they explore a variety of historical topics as well as critical thinking, primary source analysis and how historians use clues from the past to put together a historical narrative.
September 17
Bedford County
Naturalization Ceremony
Join Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the Blue Ridge Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (SDAR) to witness a Naturalization Ceremony welcoming new American citizens in honor of Constitution Day, the day in 1787 the American Constitution was signed into law.
Botetourt County
Life of a Revolutionary War Loyalist
Historic interpreter Jeff Briggs wears recreated period clothing and uses various items from the Revolutionary War period to discuss what life was like for a colonist loyal to the King of England.
Danville
“Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech
The Dorothea Henry and Thomas Carter Chapters of NSDAR, along with the Pittsylvania County Historical Society are sponsoring Patrick Henry Jolly, 5th Great Grandson of our partier, Patrick Henry of Redhill Plantation in the re-enactment of the famous “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death” speech on the steps on the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History.
Pittsylvania County
DAR Constitution Day Celebration
All who enjoy the freedoms of citizenship are invited to experience the spark that lit the fires for revolution and independence as Patrick Henry’s fifth great-grandson, Patrick Henry Jolly, reenacts his ancestor’s famous speech to “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death.” A special invitation is extended to parents, teachers and lovers of American history to bring children and students to witness the speech along with a flag presentation and musket salute by the Dan River Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard. Period attire will be worn by the presenters.
Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg: Constitution Day Celebration
Celebrate the adoption of the U.S. Constitution by the delegates to the Constitutional Convention. Join in-depth discussions, and the best of Colonial Williamsburg’s historical interpretation, bringing the history of America’s governing document to life.
September 18
James City County
Director’s Series with Dr. Ned Blackhawk
Dr. Ned Blackhawk is an enrolled member of the Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada and the Howard R. Lamar Professor of History and American Studies at Yale University.
Richmond
American Revolution Round Table of Richmond Meeting
“Architecture and History at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill,” presented by Cody Youngblood.
Virginia Beach
A Commemoration of the Meeting of the Three Commanders
Join the Daughters of the American Revolution Princess Anne Chapter in cooperation with The Virginia Sons fo the American Revolution Norfolk Chapter for a regional history presentation of “The Meeting of the Three Commanders,” followed by a champagne toast to the “plan that won the Revolutionary War.” Admiral de Grasse, commander of a large French fleet, gained control of the Chesapeake Bay after defeating a British fleet off the Virginia Capes on 5 Sept. 1781. Gen. George Washington, commander in chief of the combined American and French armies, and the Comte de Rochambeau, commander of the French expeditionary army, met with de Grasse aboard his flagship on 18 Sept. The officers planned to entrap the British Army at Yorktown. As Washington and Rochambeau left, sailors atop the masts of the French ships saluted them with running musket fire known as a feu de joie while the flagship fired its cannons. The siege of Yorktown began on 28 Sept. The British surrendered on 19 Oct.
September 19
Botetourt County
Genealogy Research: Courthouse Records
Research your family history using courthouse records. Learn how to find records online and navigate in-person research restrictions during the Botetourt County Courthouse construction.
September 20
Albemarle County
Farm to Batteau
Join James River Batteau Company for a collaboration with local Chef Sarah Rennie of Two Fire Table! Get ready for an open fire, family-style, farm-to-table dinner out on America’s Founding River. This experience showcases the agricultural and historical richness of the Scottsville area, against the backdrop of the golden hour on the James River. Float down river hearing stories of the by-gone days of the James River Batteau. Aboard the most local of boats, you’ll learn about the role these watercraft played in the settling of Virginia’s Piedmont and about the brave men that navigated them.
Fairfax County
Cocktails by Candlelight
Sip on period cocktails and sample historic foods while you enjoy the serenity of Mason Neck by candlelight. Situated in the heart of the historic property, this event offers the perfect opportunity to relax with friends and loved ones. Also, it’s the perfect date night.
James City County
Picnic on the Pier at Jamestown Settlement
Shake out your picnic blankets and make plans for an evening of blues, barbecue and stunning sunset views during this year’s “Picnic on the Pier” at Jamestown Settlement. Set along a picturesque backdrop of the James River waterfront, spend time with friends savoring delicious barbecue and beverages from Williamsburg favorites Old City BBQ and The Virginia Beer Company. Live music from Bobby Blackhat, Virginia’s Blues Ambassador, will have your toes tapping, fingers popping and hips shaking to the sounds of The Bobby BlackHat Band.
September 21 – 22
Fairfax County
Textiles: Household Goods
Explore the rich and intricate world of textiles and their use in the 18th century. Discover how colonial Americans sourced, crafted, and utilized textiles, including homespun wool and linen and imported silks and dyes.
September 22
Fairfax County
Sensory-Friendly Family Morning
Mount Vernon invites neurodivergent individuals and their families to enjoy a sensory-friendly morning and tour at a discounted rate. This special program includes a tour of the mansion and hands-on activities before the estate opens to the general public.
Surry County
Nottoway Indian Tribe of VA Pow Wow
Join the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia for their annual Pow Wow with intertribal dancing, vendors and crafts, storytelling, educational exhibits, and Native American cooking.
September 22
Isle of Wight County
Cleave America, Patriot Flames 1774
Enjoy an afternoon with Dan Hobbs, author of “Cleave America, Patriot Flames 1774” and “Cleave America, The Continental Divide 1802.” Dan has written extensively in technical, military and often classified settings. He began to transform his technical writing skills into creative writing and turned his vision to America’s past seeking instances where faith transformed the lives of ordinary Americans. He passionately enjoys taking decisive historical events and adding the power of imagination to create compelling readable stories that teach life lessons.
September 23
Fairfax County
Fall Homeschool Day
Mount Vernon welcomes homeschooling families to discover the 18th century by learning about George Washington and the British Empire in the summer and fall of 1774. Discover 18th-century foodways, hear military music from the Revolution from a resident fifer, and participate in activities on the 12-acre field.
Richmond
German Soldiers in the American Revolutionary War
Between 1776 and 1783, Great Britain hired more than thirty thousand German soldiers to fight in its war against the American rebels. Collectively known as Hessians, the soldiers and accompanying civilians, including hundreds of women and children, spent extended periods of time in locations as dispersed and varied as Canada in the North and West Florida in the South. How did members of the German corps experience the American war? How did they describe the American land and the people? This presentation will pay special attention to the experiences of the German troops in the rebellious colonies in the South, including Georgia, the Carolinas, and Virginia. Drawing extensively from a large body of private and official records created by members of the German corps, it will provide a fresh perspective of this watershed event in world history.
September 28
Botetourt County
Historic Fincastle Fall Festival
An annual, free event where you can walk around throughout the historic town of Fincastle, established in 1772. There will be displays of local artists with a variety of mediums including oils, pastels, pen and ink, etc., and a wide variety of local craft vendors around town including jewelry makers, potters, metal crafters, wood crafters and original creations by a variety of other crafters. Food vendors, music, historical interpreters, petting zoo and children’s activities will be available throughout the town for you to visit. The 18th Century John Matten Early Cabin will be open showing a living history display during the 1700/1800’s. Also, the Wysong Blacksmith Shop will have a working blacksmith plus a display of blacksmithing tools. In the Old Historic Baptist Church, there will be a display of historic and vintage quilts from the last 200 years. There will also be history talks about the town during the day as well as a vintage slide show of Fincastle. Two music stages will have a variety of music from a brass ensemble to old time blue grass music. The Botetourt County Historical Society and Museum will also be open for your visit. See artifacts and memorabilia from the last 250 years of the county.
Charles City County
72nd Chickahominy Indian Tribe Fall Festival and Pow Wow
The 72nd rendition of the Chickahominy Indian Tribe annual Fall Festival and Pow-Wow is returning to the Charles City County. The Chickahominy Indian Tribe will join friends and visitors from all over the country when they gather for the 71st annual Chickahominy Fall Festival and Pow-Wow on Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29 at the Chickahominy Tribal Grounds, located at 8200 Lott Cary Road, Providence Forge, VA, in Charles City.
Chesapeake
Three Tun Tavern Night
Join the Tavern Keeper at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum for a night of revelry. Experience the sights and sounds of an 18th century tavern and enjoy live music, games, trivia, food, and beverages.
Fredericksburg
Community Block Party at Historic Kenmore
Dive into local history through engaging educational stations focusing on archaeology, living history, and the ongoing preservation efforts of the Kenmore property. Explore 18th-century legacy in a reproduction kitchen and join in a fun-filled scavenger hunt across the grounds. Take a guided tour of the iconic Kenmore Great House and be sure to visit the new exhibit in the visitor center. Join for a day of family-friendly festivities and community camaraderie while celebrating Kenmore’s heritage surrounded by the beauty of its grounds in autumn.
Westmoreland County
Hands-On History Day
Experience Stratford Hall and its people through the lenses of history, science, and culture. Spend the day exploring the historic area while participating in special activities provided by education and interpretive staff. Pack a picnic lunch for the family and relax at one of the numerous picnic areas throughout the site. Take a nature walk, go for a hike, enjoy bird watching, fishing, or hunting for sharks’ teeth along the Potomac River.