Patrick Henry's Speech - Virginia American Revolution 250 Commemoration

Patrick Henry’s Speech

250th Anniversary

March 23, 2025

I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!

Step back in time to March 23, 1775! At the Second Virginia Convention, held within the hallowed walls of St. John’s Church in Richmond, Patrick Henry ignited the flames of revolution with his legendary speech. His words galvanized the Virginia delegation, leading to a resolution that committed Virginia troops to the Revolutionary War.

250 years later, on March 23, 2025, St. John’s Church and VA250 brought history alive with a series of reenactments in the very spot where this pivotal moment unfolded. Relive that moment through the archived livestream of the 250th anniversary of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech. This program featured keynote addresses from VA250 National Honorary Chair Carly Fiorina and filmmaker Ken Burns, making his first public appearance to promote his newest and highly anticipated documentary PBS documentary series “The American Revolution” premiering November 16, 2025.

Watch the Livestream

Local Events

Henry Takes Command with the 7th Virginia Regiment - A 250th Signature Program
September 13, 2025 - September 13, 2025
Hanover County

Join the 7th Virginia Regiment as they reenact PH’s appointment to the 1st Virginia Regiment prior to his departure to take command in Williamsburg!... Read More

Patrick Henry: Hear History Come Alive
September 20, 2025 - September 20, 2025
Pulaski County

Everyone knows the famous seven words of Patrick Henry, but now you can hear them presented in the context of which they were delivered. Patrick Henry... Read More

The Revolutionary Road Through Scotchtown, a 250th Signature Event
September 26, 2025 - September 26, 2025
Hanover County

Have you ever wondered if the colonial or continental armies marched through or camped at Scotchtown during the revolutionary war? Join historian and ... Read More

Red Hill Rediscovered: Unearthing Red Hill: Archaeology of the Double Cabins
October 17, 2025 - October 17, 2025
Charlotte County

Join Lucia Butler and Margaret Dudley, Staff Archaeologists at Red Hill, as they discuss the summer 2025 archaeological excavation of two cabins on Qu... Read More

Give Me Liberty Exhibition
November 07, 2025 - December 12, 2025
Clarke County

Long Branch Historic House & Farm is proud to display the Virginia Museums of History and Culture's traveling exhibition, "Give Me Liberty." Virginia ... Read More