December 4, 2021 Saturday (11 am) - 246th Commemoration of the Battle of Great Bridge Muster time: 10:15 am Location: Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, 1775 Historic Way, Chesapeake, Virginia 23320 Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the Norfolk Chapter, Virginia SAR. Please refer to the attached file for information regarding accommodations, and to register your participation in this event. And, inform Kenneth Hawkins, with the Norfolk Chapter, at drklhawkins@gmail.com of your plans by not later than 8 November, 2021. This event commemorates the Battle of Great Bridge, fought 9 December, 1775 in the area of Great Bridge, Virginia, early in the American Revolutionary War. The victory by colonial Virginia militia forces led to the departure of Royal Governor Lord Dunmore and any remaining vestiges of British power over the Colony of Virginia during the early days of the conflict. Following increasing political and military tensions in early 1775, both Dunmore and colonial rebel leaders recruited troops and engaged in a struggle for available military supplies. The struggle eventually focused on Norfolk, where Dunmore had taken refuge aboard a Royal Navy vessel. Dunmore's forces had fortified one side of a critical river crossing south of Norfolk at Great Bridge, while rebel forces had occupied the other side. In an attempt to break up the rebel gathering, Dunmore ordered an attack across the bridge, which was decisively repulsed. Colonel William Woodford, the Virginia militia commander at the battle, described it as "a second Bunker's Hill affair". Shortly thereafter, Norfolk, at the time a Loyalist center, was abandoned by Dunmore and the Tories, who fled to navy ships in the harbor. Rebel-occupied Norfolk was destroyed on 1 January, 1776 in an action begun by Dunmore and completed by rebel forces. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Dunaway, Greaf, Hall (Gary), Hamill, Hodges, Jameson, Kelly, Lynch, Melhuish, Morris, O'Kelley, Robinson (Marc), Schwetke (Bill), Thompson, and Weyler
We were also joined by National Color Guard Commander Lou Raborg, NC Society President and Fairfax Resolves dual member Jay DeLoach, Raleigh NC Chapter member Tom Davis, and young Virginia SAR guardsmen Drew Wajciechowski.
November 14 2021 Sunday (2 pm) – Patriot Governor William Fleming (1727 - 1795) Muster time: 1:15 pm Location: On the grounds of the Ole Monterey Golf Club. Parking is at the clubhouse, 201 Tinker Creek Lane, Roanoke, VA. The walk to the cemetery is between 100 and 200 yards. Arrangements have been made for golf carts for those who need assistance getting to the cemetery. Details: This is a Chapter-level event, hosted locally by the Fincastle Resolutions Chapter, Virginia SAR. William Fleming was an American physician, soldier, politician and planter who served as a local justice of the peace in the mountains of southwestern Virginia and Kentucky, as well as in the Senate of Virginia and briefly acted as the Governor of Virginia during the American Revolutionary War. He served as Virginia wartime Governor in 1781; previously in the Virginia Council of State from 1780 - 1781, a Virginia Senator from 1777 - 1779, and served as a Colonel in the Battle of Point Pleasant and as an Ensign and Surgeon during the French and Indian War. If you're interested in participating in this event, please contact Dale Corey at dale.corey@comcast.net by November 7th.
Weather: Partly cloudy with a high of 55 degrees, and wind SW 9 mph. Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Crain, Day, Fritts, Hall, Osborn, Phillips, Robinson (Marc), and Vogler
November 11, 2021 Thursday (1 pm) - Veterans Day Commemoration Location: George Washington's Mount Vernon. Details: This is a National - level event, organized locally by the George Washington Chapter, VASSAR. If you're interested in participating, please register at https://gwsar.org/event-4524645. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Crain, Duncan, and Mills (Andrew and Jack)
Virginia SAR Color Guard (L - R) Ken Bonner, Dave Cook, Andrew Mills, Forrest Crain, Jack Mills, and Leamon Duncan.
November 11, 2021 Thursday (11 am) - Veterans Day Commemoration Location: Winchester National Cemetery, 401 National Ave, Winchester, VA 22601, USA Details: This is a National - level event, organized locally by the Col James Wood II Chapter, Virginia SAR. If you're interested in participating, please contact Dale Corey at dale.corey@comcast.net.
Weather: Attendees: Carrigan, Christensen, Corey, Hall (Doug), Moore, Osborn, Parmeter, Phillips, Robinson (Eric and Marc), and Young
October 30 2021 (Saturday (1 pm) - 250th Anniversary of the Opening of Washington's Gristmill Location: 5514 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria 22039 Details: This is a State - level event, organized locally by the Fairfax Resolves Chapter, Virginia SAR. If you're interested in participating, please send a note to Dave Cook, Chapter President, at cook006@verizon.net. See also the attached program for additional details regarding this event. Weather: Attendees: Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Dennis, Jameson, McKinley, Morris, Osborn, Robinson (Marc), Schmidt, and Thomas
October 23, 2021 Saturday (11 am) - Culpeper Minute Men Battalion Muster Location: Yowell Meadow Park, N Blue Ridge Avenue, Culpeper, VA 22701 Details: This is a State - level event, organized locally by the Culpeper Minute Men Chapter, VASSAR. This event commemorates the dates the Virginia Gazette reported the Battalion in Williamsburg 20 - 23 October 1775, to draw equipment in preparation for the Battle of Great Bridge on 9 December of that year. The Culpeper Minute Men organized, trained, and mustered near the present-day monument and Charters of Freedom exhibit in Yowell Meadow Park. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Crain, Dennis, Hamill, Hodges, Jameson, Morris, Osborn, Robinson (Marc), and Schwetke
October 19, 2021 Tuesday (9 am) – 240th Commemoration of the Battle of Yorktown Muster time: 8:15 am Location: Yorktown, VA Details: A National - level event sponsored by the VASSAR. The Siege of Yorktown, also known as the Battle of Yorktown, the surrender at Yorktown, or the German Battle, ending on October 19, 1781, at Yorktown, Virginia, was a decisive victory by a combined force of American Continental Army troops led by General George Washington and French Army troops led by the Comte de Rochambeau over a British army commanded by British peer and Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis. The culmination of the Yorktown campaign, the siege proved to be the last major land battle of the American Revolutionary War in the North American region, as the surrender by Cornwallis, and the capture of both him and his army, prompted the British government to negotiate an end to the conflict. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Davenport, Jameson, Kelly, Lyman, Morris, Osborn, Schwetke, and Weyler
October 9, 2021 Saturday (3 pm) – Multiple (two) Patriot Grave Marking Location: St. Paul's Cemetery, Wilkes Street Complex, Alexandria, VA22314 Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the George Washington Chapter, VASSAR. Please contact Paul Walden on (703) 346-2091 or by email at PaulWalden@live.com by 5 Oct if you plan to participate and present a Chapter wreath. Please let me know if you plan to participate in the Color Guard, by responding to ken.l.bonner@gmail.com. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Crain, Huxsoll, Morris, Osborn, and Robinson (Marc)
October 8, 2021 Friday (2pm) – DAR Ceremony for Elvira Henry Miller, descendant of Patrick Henry Location: Spring Hill Cemetery, 3000 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg, VA 24501 Details: This is a Chapter - level event, sponsored by the newly chartered Patrick Henry Chapter in support of a graveside ceremony conducted by a local DAR Chapter. Elvira Henry Miller (1850 - 1955) was admitted into the NSDAR in 1894 as a Charter member and first Registrar of the Blue Ridge Chapter DAR. She was also a member of the Virginia Society of Colonial Dames and was instrumental in promoting the study of history through her Chapter and the DAR, by offering a prize or medal to pupils who wrote the best essay on a given historical subject. For more information, contact Chapter President Mark Day via email at oscmbb64@msn.com.
Given this is the Patrick Henry Chapter's inaugural event, partnering their local DAR Chapter, this is a high-visibility event and I'd like to ensure a robust contribution from the Virginia SAR Color Guard. I understand Mark will himself don his uniform! Please let me know if you plan to participate, and I look forward to seeing you then!
Weather: Attendees: Corey, Carrigan, Day, Geisinger, and Hall
October 7, 2021 Thursday (11 am – 2pm) – 241st Commemoration of the Battle of Kings Mountain Location: 2625 Park Road, Blacksburg, SC 29702 Details: This is a National - level event, of interest to the VASSAR and co-hosted by the SCSSAR and NCSSAR. The Battle of Kings Mountain was a military engagement between Patriot and Loyalist militias in South Carolina during the Southern Campaign of the American Revolutionary War, resulting in a decisive victory for the Patriots. The battle took place on 7 October, 1780, 9 miles (14 km) south of the present-day town of Kings Mountain, North Carolina in what is now rural Cherokee County, South Carolina, where the Patriot militia defeated the Loyalist militia commanded by British Major Patrick Ferguson of the 71st Foot. The battle has been described as "the war’s largest all-American fight". Weather: Attendees:
October 3, 2021 (3 pm) – Patriot Grave Marking of two American Revolution Patriots Location: Williams' Family Cemetery, 62 Williamsdale Lane, Mathews, VA 23109 Details: This is a Chapter - level event, jointly-sponsored by the Richard Henry Lee and Thomas Nelson Jr., Chapters, VASSAR. The graves of two Revolutionary War Patriots, Samuel Williams and John Richards, will be marked during this ceremony. Weather: Partly cloudy skies. High 84F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Attendees: Bonner, Brown, Carrigan, Corey, Cox, Jameson, Lyman, Lynch, and Morris.
October 2, 2021 Saturday (10:00 am) – James Monroe Birthplace House "Grand Opening Ceremony" Muster time: 9:15 am Location: 4460 James Monroe Highway, Colonial Beach, VA (on Route 205 just south of Colonial Beach) Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the James Monroe Memorial Foundation. The James Monroe Chapter, VASSAR, has been actively involved in fundraising for this important restoration. As many of you will recall, President Monroe was the only President besides George Washington to have actively served in the regular army during the Revolutionary War, participating in six major battles (as well as wintering at Valley Forge, crossing the Delaware with George Washington, being seriously wounded at Trenton, and cited for conspicuous bravery) and subsequently served simultaneously as Secretary of War and Secretary of State (during the War of 1812), when he helped coordinate American defenses against the British. He was also an active participant in our first American lineage society, the Society of the Cincinnati. Weather: Mostly sunny skies. Low 61F, high 80F, winds light and variable. It was delightful! Attendees: Beckett, Bonner, Christensen, Dennis, Disney, Greaf, Jameson, Kelly, Morris, O'Kelley, and Schwetke.
We were also joined in our formation by Anita Bonner, Lanes Mill DAR, carrying the DAR flag, and young guardsmen Drew Wajciechowski and Jack Akers fell in, guarding the front and rear of our formation.
October 2 - 3, 2021 Saturday – 247th Commemoration of the Battle of Point Pleasant (Battle of Kanawha) - CANCELED Location: Tu-Endie-Wei Park, Point Pleasant, WV 25550 Details: This is a National - level event, of interest to the VASSAR and hosted by the Point Pleasant Chapter, WVSSAR. Weather: Attendees:
September 23 – 26, 2021 Thursday - Sunday – NSSAR Fall Leadership Meeting Location: Louisville, KY Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the NSSAR Weather: Attendees: Schwetke and Weyler
September 18, 2021 Saturday (4:15 pm) - President General's Wreath Laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns Muster time (at the tomb): 3:15 pm (participants are encouraged to arrive between 3:00 and 3:30 pm) Location: Arlington National Cemetery Details: This is a National - level event, with SAR PG Davis Wright presenting the Society wreath. Please advise Ken Bonner via email at ken.l.bonner@gmail.com if you plan to participate. For planning purposes, I have in the past parked in the visitor's parking deck and entered the Cemetery via the Visitor's Center. Proceed to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for our muster. Weather: Mostly sunny, about 84 degrees .. should be delightful! Attendees: Bonner, Schwetke (Bill), Schwetke (Doug), and Weyler. We were also joined by Compatriot Van Cunningham, visiting from the Texas SAR!
September 18, 2021 Saturday (8:00 am) - SAR Vigil at Washington's Tomb Location: George Washington's Mount Vernon, Alexandria, VA Details: This is a National - level event, commanded by the National Color Guard Commander. Registration for this event is utilizing SignUp Genius, which can be accessed at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F094CAAA92DABFD0-mount. There are still a number of open slots in the afternoon. The following Virginia SAR Color Guardsmen are presently registered. Weather: Mostly sunny, about 84 degrees .. should be delightful! Attendees: Christensen, Schwetke (Bill), Schwetke (Doug), and Thomas (Jeff)
September 11, 2021 Saturday (10:00 am) – 241st Gathering at Sycamore Shoals Location: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the Watauga Chapter TNSSAR. The organizing contact is Tim Massey, and he can be contacted via email at horses319@comcast.net. The year was 1780. The tide of the Revolution had turned against the colonists. The British, forced out of New England, gained new allies in the divided South and won victory after victory in a bloody civil war. Charleston had fallen, and American forces had crumbled at the battle of Camden. But then the impossible occurred ... the frontiersmen of the western mountains began a long march, gathering an army along the way, from the highlands of Virginia to the hills of South Carolina. At a place called King’s Mountain, they destroyed British forces and opened the way for the final American victory at Yorktown. Weather: Attendees:
September 4, 2021 Saturday (11 am) – 240th Commemoration of the Battle of the Capes - Canceled Location: Francois Joseph Paul de Grasse Statue, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, VA. Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the Norfolk Chapter VASSAR. Please see the attached event flyer for more details, and RSVP by August 2nd to Gary Pridgen at gpridgen@cox.net or by phone at (757) 301-2862. The Battle of the Chesapeake, also known as the Battle of the Virginia Capes or simply the Battle of the Capes, was a crucial naval battle in the American Revolutionary War that took place near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay on 5 September, 1781. The combatants were a British fleet led by Rear Admiral Sir Thomas Graves and a French fleet led by Rear Admiral Francois Joseph Paul, the Comte de Grasse. The battle was strategically decisive, in that it prevented the Royal Navy from reinforcing or evacuating the besieged forces of Lieutenant General Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia. The French were able to achieve control of the sea lanes against the British and provided the Franco-American army with siege artillery and French reinforcements. These proved decisive in the Siege of Yorktown, effectively securing independence for the Thirteen Colonies. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Corey, Crain, Daniel, Dennis, Geisinger, Hall, Hamill, Jameson, Kelly, Morris, Osborn, Russell, Schwetke (Bill and Doug), Schwoerer, and Weyler
September 4, 2021 Saturday (11 am) – 240th Commemoration of the Battle of the Capes - Canceled Location: Francois Joseph Paul de Grasse Statue, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, VA. Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the Norfolk Chapter VASSAR. Please see the attached event flyer for more details, and RSVP by August 2nd to Gary Pridgen at gpridgen@cox.net or by phone at (757) 301-2862. The Battle of the Chesapeake, also known as the Battle of the Virginia Capes or simply the Battle of the Capes, was a crucial naval battle in the American Revolutionary War that took place near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay on 5 September, 1781. The combatants were a British fleet led by Rear Admiral Sir Thomas Graves and a French fleet led by Rear Admiral Francois Joseph Paul, the Comte de Grasse. The battle was strategically decisive, in that it prevented the Royal Navy from reinforcing or evacuating the besieged forces of Lieutenant General Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia. The French were able to achieve control of the sea lanes against the British and provided the Franco-American army with siege artillery and French reinforcements. These proved decisive in the Siege of Yorktown, effectively securing independence for the Thirteen Colonies. Weather: Attendees:
August 28 Saturday (11 am) – Annual Multi-Chapter Meeting Location: Graves' Mountain Farm and Lodges, Rt. 670, Syria, VA 22743 Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR. Social time with cash bar begins at 11:00 am, and the meeting starts at 11:30 am. We will then break for lunch 'family style' at about 12:00. Our distinguished guest is Virginia SAR President Jeff Thomas and the master of ceremonies is David Cooke, President of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter.
Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Dennis, Hamill, Hamilton, Jameson, Kelly, O'Kelley, Schwetke, Weyler, and Williams
August 28 Saturday (10 am) - 247th Commemoration of the New Bern Resolves Location: Hybrid - virtual and at Christ Episcopal Church, Outdoor Colonial Chapel, 320 Pollock Street, New Bern NC Details: This Chapter - level event hosted by the New Bern Chapter NCSSAR. An observance of the 1st North Carolina Provincial Congress will be held by the New Bern Chapter on Saturday, 28 August 2021 in New Bern, NC in order to recognize and honor the bravery of the 71 delegates and mark the importance of the 1st NC Provincial Congress in North Carolina and American history, especially for its significance toward the outcome of the American Revolution. The first Provincial Congress held in America in open defiance of the British Royal Crown was conducted in the Craven County Court House, New Bern, NC during 25-27 August 1774. The courthouse was located at the current intersection of Middle & Broad Streets until destroyed by fire in 1865. Seventy-one (71) delegates representing 30 of 36 counties and 6 of 9 boroughs met at the 1st North Carolina Provincial Congress to discuss the grievances against numerous taxes and laws imposed on the colonists by the Royal Crown and the British Parliament. Twenty-eight (28) resolves were issued in response to the unjust taxes and laws. Richard Caswell, William Hooper and Joseph Hewes were elected as delegates to the 1st Continental Congress and were instructed to present the resolves to the 1st Continental Congress as actionable redress of grievances against the Royal Crown. To kick off the commemoration, a fifteen (15) minute procession involving members of the Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, St. Johns Masonic Lodge #3, the Continental Line and Fife & Drum Corps of the North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace, Boy Scouts of America, numerous local schools and other patriotic and civic organizations will move south on Middle Street from the Centenary United Methodist Church parking lot (crossing Broad Street) to the outdoor Colonial Chapel of Christ Episcopal Church. A one-hour ceremony will be held at the Colonial Chapel and will include a keynote address by Dr. Joseph Beatty, Research Supervisor, Historical Research and Publication Office, NC Office of Archives and History. The ceremony will conclude with a rendering of honors for the 71 Delegates and Resolves of the 1st North Carolina Provincial Congress. In the event of inclement weather, the procession will be canceled, and the ceremony will be moved inside the Harrison Center, which is located across the street at: 311 Middle Street, New Bern NC. This is a Hybrid event and Zoom link will be sent out by Friday, 27 August for registered virtual participants. Pre-registration for the face-to-face and virtual event, which includes: lunch, hotel information, and directions, can be found at the following URL: https://forms.gle/VQpVgbdPhu2fBXCF8 Direct all questions/comments to newbernresolves@gmail.com Weather: Attendees:
August 21, 2021 Saturday 11:00 am Patriot Grave Marking for William Clarke Muster time - 10:15 am Location: Madden Family/Community Cemetery, 23512 Maddens Tavern Rd. Elkwood, VA Details: This is a Chapter - level event hosted by the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR. The Culpeper Minute Men Chapter and VASSAR will host a ceremony honoring Revolutionary War veteran William Clark/Clarke, a free African American soldier, by installing a memorial marker at his grave in Culpeper County, VA. This ceremony, featuring a presentation of colors by the VASSAR Color Guard ending with a Musket Salute will be held in the Madden Family / Community Cemetery. Family descendants will be onsite as the biography of their ancestor is read. The public is invited to see this colorful and dignified tribute to one of America's first veterans. For additional information or directions contact Charles Jameson at 540-222-9603 or email: ccj1947@gmail.com. William Clarke, a free African American fought during the whole of the Revolutionary War with Great Britain. In contrast most soldiers enlisted for a six month to one year term. Clarke was a soldier in the armies of the United States, particularly in the VA line. He enlisted with Thomas Wells, a captain in the 15th Virginia Regiment. Clarke continued his uninterrupted service while serving as a soldier servant to Lt. Colonel Gustavus Wallace when the troops went to help Charleston SC. Sometime before the surrender of Charleston, on 12 May 1780, he was sent by Colonel William Heath to VA, thus escaping being captured by the British in SC On his way back from VA, Clarke met Colonel John Jameson at Wilmington NC and became his soldier servant and continued to Connecticut in that capacity. Clarke was probably present with the discussions of Benedict Arnold and treason. Colonel John Jameson spoke of Clarke’s service in very high terms. There was a pass issued for family travel in 1816 which puts a question on whether he had returned to Culpeper. Records indicate that Clarke was here at Culpeper Court House in 1818 and 1820 still applying for that pension. William Clarke died in 1827. We know in 1830 William's wife, Hannah Peters, was here in Culpeper applying for the pension and again in 1840. She received the pension here in Culpeper in 1847. The family lived with Willis Madden who married William's daughter, Kitty Clarke, and lived at Madden's Tavern in Elkwood, VA. The State of Ohio placed a V.A. Memorial stone commemorating William's service in Grandview Cemetery, Chillicothe, Ohio and stated his burial site is unknown. We do know that his family returned here and his service was to VA. Therefore VASSAR wishes to honor William Clarke's Service to the United States and VA on 21 Aug 2021.
August 21 - 22, 2021 Saturday - Sunday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm – 32rd Annual Nansemond Pow Wow - CANCELED Location: 1001 Pembroke Lane, Suffolk, VA Details: This event is hosted by the Nansemond Indian Nation, and promoted also by the Nansemond Indian Patriot Chapter, VASSAR. We will participate in the Grand Entry on Sat the 21st at 12:00 pm. Additional details are forthcoming, but let's plan on mustering by 11:15 am. Please see the attached flyer for additional information about this exciting event! Weather: Attendees:
August 13 - 14, 2021 Friday - Saturday - Atlantic Middle States Association (AMSA) Location: Crowne Plaza Annapolis, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD 21401 Details: This is a Mid-Atlantic Region event. The conference begins with registration Friday afternoon, followed by a welcome buffet social at 6 pm. The National Business Meeting follows that evening, along with a separate ladies program, "The women who sewed our flags from Betsy Ross to Mary Pickersgill" by Dr. Sandi Wallis. The AMSA District meeting begins Saturday morning, while the ladies enjoy a presentation on "Dressing the 18th Century Lady" by Vicki Embrey. On Saturday afternoon, participants will tour Annapolis historic sites including the Hammond-Harwood House, and the William Paca House and gardens. The conference culminates with a black-tie banquet Saturday evening, featuring Dr Sam Davis, PhD portraying Gen'l George Washington and "The Dark Days: Boston to Valley Forge." Weather: Attendees: Schwetke (Bill)
July 24, 2021 Saturday (2 pm) – Patriot Grave Marking - Five Patriots Muster time - 1:15 pm Location: New Jerusalem Lutheran Church, 12942 Lutheran Church Road, Lovettsville, VA 20180 Details: This Chapter - level event hosted by the Fairfax Resolves Chapter, VASSAR and honors four Revolutionary War Patriots buried here. We plan to have Color Guard from both State Societies, elements of a fife and drum corps, and musket fire. Participants will have the opportunity to earn five (5) more grave markings towards the Grave Marking medal. Reply to Chapter President Dave Cook cook006@verizon.net with copy to Ken Bonner at ken.l.bonner@gmail.com by 17 July, indicating if you will attend (yes/no), present a wreath (yes/no) and/or participate in Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Attendees: Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Crain, Daniel, Embry (MDSSAR), Hall (Doug), Harris (MDSSAR), Huxsoll (David and Sam), Jameson, Kelly, McKinley, Moore, Morris, Moyer (MDSSAR), Phillips, Poe, Osborn, Reynolds, Robinson (Marc), Schwetke, Schwoerer (Barry and Jacob), Simmons, and Weyler - and junior 'members' Andrew Osborn and Drew Wajciechowski
July 18, 2021 Saturday (11 am) – 247th Commemoration of the Signing of the Fairfax Resolves Location: Pohick Church 9301 Richmond Highway Lorton, VA 22079 (US 1 & Telegraph Road) Details: This Chapter - level event honoring the memory of the signers of the Fairfax Resolves. The Fairfax Resolves were a set of resolutions adopted by a committee in Fairfax County in the colony of Virginia on 18 July, 1774 in the early stages of the American Revolution. Written primarily by George Mason, the resolutions rejected the British Parliament's claim of supreme authority over the American colonies. More than thirty counties in Virginia passed similar resolutions in 1774, "but the Fairfax Resolves were the most detailed, the most influential, and the most radical.
Compatriots, This year our chapter's commemoration of the Signing of the Fairfax Resolves will take place at historic Pohick Church (9301 Richmond Hwy, Lorton VA 22079) on July 17 at 11 a.m. Since we are coming out of COVID restrictions, this year's event, marking the 247th anniversary of the adoption of the Fairfax Resolves, will be in-person, but those unable to join are encouraged to do so remotely via Zoom. A Zoom link will be provided to those who register. To register for the event please fill out the form at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdInkQejqR3gaTA06FqAYGBE81YndXC4jQqwRfDsLgwTYL8Cg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0. Also see the flyer attached. Please register no later than July 15. Color Guard participants, please do not bring weapons to this event. Thank you. We Iook forward to seeing you there. David Huxsoll 1st VP, Fairfax Resolves SAR Weather: Attendees: Belfield, Bonner, Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Daniel, DeLoach, Huxsoll, Jameson, Kelly, Morris, Robinson, and Weyler
July 5, 2021 Saturday (11:00 am) – Patriot Grave Marking – Benjamin Harrison V Location: Berkeley Plantation, 12602 Harrison Landing Rd, Charles City, VA 23030 Details: This is a State - level event, organized and conducted by the Williamsburg Chapter, VASSAR. Benjamin Harrison V (April 5, 1726 – April 24, 1791) was an American planter and merchant, and served as a legislator in colonial Virginia, following a precedent of public service established by his namesakes. He became a Founding Father of the United States and was elected as Virginia's governor (1781–1784). As a Virginia delegate to the Continental Congress, and chairman of its Committee of the Whole, Harrison attended and presided over the final debate of the Declaration of Independence. He was one of its signers in 1776. The Declaration included a foundational philosophy of the United States: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (Wikipedia). To participate in this event, email your name, title and Chapter to Bill Greaf at hsaprof@gmail.com by 27 June indicating whether you will present a wreath (yes/no) or participate in the Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Partly cloud skies. High 89F. Winds light and variable. Attendees: Belfield, Bonner, Cook, Hall, Jameson, Lynch, Morris, Schwetke, Schwoerer, and Weyler - and junior 'member' Drew Wajciechowski
July 4, 2021 Sunday (1 pm) - Independence Day Location: Charters of Freedom monument, Yowell Meadow Park, N Blue Ridge Avenue, Culpeper, VA Details: This is a National - level event, organized and conducted locally by the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter, VASSAR. This annual event is well-attended by the SAR, DAR, and members of the public. This unique agenda includes a special tribute to African Americans and American Indians from the Culpeper area who made a contribution to the American War for Independence. Please see the attached program for additional details for this event. Weather: Sunshine and clouds mixed. Slight chance of an afternoon shower. High 79F. Comparatively, looks like a more temperate day than normal - when compared with the last couple of years! Attendees: Jameson and Schwetke
July 4, 2021 Sunday (~ 9 am) - Independence Day and March to the Tomb Location: George Washington's Mount Vernon - Details forthcoming Details: This is a National - level event, organized and conducted by the George Washington Chapter, VASSAR. Following are the latest details, from Compatriot Richard Rankin who is organizing this year's event on behalf of the GW Chapter.
July 4th Timeline: We will assemble at the Ann Pamela Cunningham Administrative Building (Building 3 on the Mount Vernon Map below) between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM. At 9:30 AM, we expect to receive the “green light” from the Mount Vernon staff to march down to the Bowling Green, as we pass in review between the ranks of the 1st Virginia Regiment and the George Washington portrayer, then proceeding to the Tomb Grove. At the Tomb Grove, the George Washington Chapter will conduct a brief ceremony featuring remarks from our Chapter President, Tom Roth. Both the VASSAR and DAR leaders will present greetings from their respective membership. The 2021 VASSAR Rumbaugh Oration Contest winner, Ms. Lauren Bradshaw, will be presenting her winning speech. Following the ceremony, the VASSAR Color Guard will lead us to the Washington Tombs for the wreath laying ceremony. All attendees will then have an opportunity to lay a carnation (provided by the Chapter) at General Washington’s and Martha Washington’s Tombs. The ceremony will conclude no later than 11:00 AM; at which time, we will return to the Tomb Grove for photographs. Parking: Currently, we have been advised that there are no reserved parking spaces. We encourage you to arrive early (between 8 AM and 9 AM) and park in the Public Parking Areas marked P1 and P2 on the attached maps. After parking, please proceed to the pedestrian Purple Heart Gate (G2), press the Security Guard button and announce yourself as a participant in the “SAR Event”; you will then be buzzed in for entry. If you wish to drop passengers off before parking, you may do so in a section of the roundabout that will be closer to the Purple Heart Gate, than would be your eventual parking space. No admission fee will be required, unless you plan to tour the Mansion following our ceremony. Mount Vernon Protocol: Face Masks: For outdoor events at Mt. Vernon, no face masks are required. For indoor events, (such as in the APC Building), face masks are required for unvaccinated guests. However, anyone who is vaccinated but feels more comfortable with wearing mask, should do what makes them feel most comfortable. Golf Cart Scheduling: If you need assistance in getting to the Tomb Grove from the Cunningham Building and returning back to the Cunningham Building, please contactChapter Vice President, Richard Rankin at 571-436-7846 to arrange a golf cart as soon as possible (there may be a short waiting time for their arrival). Dress Code: As always, we request that all Compatriots either be in Color Guard uniform or blue blazers and khaki pants. Hats and straw boaters are permitted. Chapter Medal: First-time SAR member participants will receive the George Washington Chapter’s coveted Baldwin-Jones-Tabb medal, which depicts the Washington Tomb. Individuals who wish to purchase the miniature version of the Medal may do so for $ 10.00 (exact currency will be much appreciated). A Safety Note: We highly encourage all participants bring water, sun screen and wear a hat, as early July weather is notorious for high heat and humidity. The Mount Vernon staff is working on finding the shadiest spot within the Tomb Grove for the ceremony, but we may be in full sunlight. If you have any other questions about this Mount Vernon event, please do not hesitate to contact our Chapter Vice President, Richard Rankin. As a final reminder, guests are welcomed. If your neighbors, friends or family would like to join us on July 4th, please encourage them and share this informational packet with them. There is no need to come alone! We look forward to seeing you on July 4th. Fraternally, George Washington Chapter Officers George Washington Chapter, VASSAR Weather: Sunshine and clouds mixed. Slight chance of an afternoon shower. High 79F. Comparatively, looks like a more temperate day than normal - when compared with the last couple of years! Attendees: Bonner, Christensen, Cook, Duncan, Hall, Mills (Andrew and Jack), Newman, Schwetke, Weyler, and Whitney - and junior 'member' Drew Wajciechowski
July 3, 2021 Saturday (11:00 am) – Patriot Grave Marking – Francis Lightfoot Lee Location: Tayloe family cemetery, Mount Airy Plantation, Warsaw, Virginia Details: This is a State - level event, organized and conducted by the James Monroe Chapter, VASSAR. Francis Lightfoot Lee (October 14, 1734 – January 11, 1797) was a member of the House of Burgesses in the Colony of Virginia. As an active protester regarding issues such as the Stamp Act of 1765, Lee helped move the colony in the direction of independence from Britain. Lee was a delegate to the Virginia Conventions and the Continental Congress. He was a signer of the Articles of Confederation and the Declaration of Independence as a representative of Virginia (Wikipedia). To participate in this event, email your name, title and Chapter to Charles Belfield at belmo54@yahoo.com by 27 June indicating whether you will present a wreath (yes/no) or participate in the Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Hall
July 3, 2021 Saturday (8:30 am) – Patriot Wreath Ceremony – Richard Henry Lee Location: Burnt House Fields Cemetery Coles Point, Westmoreland County, Virginia Details: This is a State - level event, organized and conducted by the James Monroe Chapter. Richard Henry Lee (January 20, 1732 – June 19, 1794) was an American statesman and Founding Father from Virginia, best known for the June 1776 Lee Resolution, the motion in the Second Continental Congress calling for the colonies' independence from Great Britain leading to the United States Declaration of Independence, which he signed. He also served a one-year term as the President of the Continental Congress, was a signatory to the Articles of Confederation, and was a United States Senator from Virginia from 1789 to 1792, serving during part of that time as the second President pro tempore of the upper house He was a member of the Lee family, a historically influential family in Virginia politics (Wikipedia). To participate in this event, email your name, title and Chapter to Charles Belfield at belmo54@yahoo.comby 27 June indicating whether you will present a wreath (yes/no) or participate in the Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Hall
June 26, 2021 Saturday (4 pm) - Patrick Henry Day and 245th Anniversary of his election as Virginia's First Revolutionary Governor Muster Time - 3:15 pm Location: Governor's Palace, 300 Palace Green Street, Williamsburg, VA Details: This is a VASSAR Presidential "Lift Your Voice" Initiative and Public Service Program, organized locally by the Williamsburg Chapter, VASSAR. The first Virginia State Constitution was ratified in the House of Burgesses in Williamsburg on the 29th of June 1776, and Patrick Henry was sworn in as the first Colonial Governor on the 5th of July. Henry was elected unopposed and served three consecutive one-year terms until 1779.
Parking is behind Matthew Whaley Elementary School, 301 Scotland St, Williamsburg, VA 23185. This parking area involves a short walk (~ 3 city blocks) along a gravel path the the Governor's Palace. There are approximately 100 parking spots but it is on a first come, first served basis. We will be able to use flag stakes here. And we will need wooden flints for a possible CW militia supervisory inspection of weapons.
Weather: Mainly cloudy, high of 86F. Winds South at 10 to 15 mph. Attendees: Bonner, Corey, Daniel, Dennis, Ford, Greaf, Jameson, Lynch, Mills (Andrew, Jack, and Charles), Morr, Morris, Schwetke, Thompson, and Westerberger
June 26, 2021 Saturday (11 am) - 240th Commemoration of the Battle of Spencer's Ordinary Muster Time - 10:15 am Location: Freedom Park, 5537 Centreville Road, Williamsburg, VA Details: This is a Chapter - level event, organized locally by the Williamsburg Chapter, VASSAR. The Battle of Spencer's Ordinary was an inconclusive skirmish that took place on 26 June 1781, late in the American Revolutionary War. British forces under Lieutenant Colonel John Graves Simcoe and American forces under Colonel Richard Butler, light detachments from the armies of General Lord Cornwallis and the Marquis de Lafayette respectively, clashed near a tavern (the "ordinary") at a road intersection not far from Williamsburg, Virginia. Lafayette had been shadowing Cornwallis as he moved his army toward Williamsburg from central Virginia. Aware that Simcoe had become separated from Cornwallis, he sent Butler out in an attempt to cut Simcoe off. Both sides, concerned that the other might be reinforced by its main army, eventually broke off the battle.
The event is held at the Interpretive Center at Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Rd, Williamsburg, Va 23188. Enter the park, proceed approximately 1 mile, go around the Botanical Garden and take the first right at the sign for the Interpretive Center. Parking is available in front of the center. The park opens at 10 AM and supports a zip line activity (Go Ape) and bike trails which will also compete for parking. If you are bringing a Chapter or Battle flag, please bring both flag stake and stand, as we may need to use stands at this event.
Weather: Mainly cloudy, high of 86F. Winds South at 10 to 15 mph. Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Dennis, Greaf, Jameson, Lynch, Mills (Andrew and Jack), Morr, Morris, Schwetke, Thompson, and Westenberger
June 19, 2021 Saturday (10 am) - Gen'l Daniel Morgan Commemoration Location: Mount Hebron Cemetery, 305 E Boscawen Street, Winchester, VA Details: This is a State - level event, organized locally by the Col James Wood II Chapter, VASSAR. Daniel Morgan (1735/1736 – July 6, 1802) was an American pioneer, soldier, and politician from Virginia. One of the most respected battlefield tacticians of the American Revolutionary War of 1775–1783, he later commanded troops during the suppression of the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791–1794. Born in New Jersey to Welsh immigrants, Morgan settled in Winchester, Virginia. He became an officer of the Virginia militia and recruited a company of riflemen at the start of the Revolutionary War. Early in the war, Morgan served in Benedict Arnold's expedition to Quebec and in the Saratoga campaign. He also served in the Philadelphia campaign before resigning from the army in 1779. Morgan returned to the army after the Battle of Camden and led the Continental Army to victory in the Battle of Cowpens. After the war, Morgan retired from the army again and developed a large estate. He was recalled to duty in 1794 to help suppress the Whiskey Rebellion and commanded a portion of the army that remained in Western Pennsylvania after the rebellion. A member of the Federalist Party, Morgan twice ran for the United States House of Representatives, winning election to the House in 1796. He retired from Congress in 1799 and died in 1802. Chapters should RSVP to Dale Corey at dale.corey@comcast.net by 15 June if you wish to participate in the wreath ceremony. Weather: Attendees: National Vice Color Guard Commander Lyles commanding; Bonner, Christensen, Cook, Corey,Daniel, Dennis, Gill, Hall, Jameson, Johnson, Moore, Osborn, Poe, Schwetke, and St. Jacques
June 5, 2021 Saturday (11 am) - 240th Commemoration of Wayne's Crossing Muster time - 10:15 am Location: Spirit of Loudoun Revolutionary War Memorial, Loudoun County Courthouse, 18 E Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176 Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the Fairfax Resolves Chapter and commemorating the crossing of the Potomac River by General Anthony Wayne’s army on 31 May 1781. The army passed through Leesburg on 3 June, 1781 in route to joining General Lafayette’s Army. Weather: Sunny and forecasted 82F at program time. Winds W @ at 5 to 10 mph. Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Dennis, Hall, Jameson, Lynch, McKinley, Poe, Schmidt, and Schwetke
May 31, 2021 Monday (1 pm) - National Memorial Day Commemoration Location: Veterans Memorial, 8050 Main Street, Middletown, VA Details: This is a National - level event, organized locally by the Col James Wood II Chapter, VASSAR. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Corey, Hall, Jameson, and Robinson (Marc)
May 31, 2021 Monday (11 am) - National Memorial Day Parade Location: National Cemetery, 305 US Avenue, Winchester, VA Details: This is a National - level event, organized locally by the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter, VASSAR. Weather: Attendees: Corey, Hall, Jameson, and Robinson (Marc)
May 29, 2021 Saturday (10:30 am) – 241st Commemoration of the Battle of Waxhaws (Buford’s Massacre) Location: Buford, SC Details: This is a National - level event sponsored by the General Francis Marion Chapter, SCSSAR. The Battle of Waxhaws (also known as Buford's massacre) took place during the American Revolutionary War on 29 May, 1780, near Lancaster, South Carolina, between a Continental Army force led by Abraham Buford and a mainly Loyalist force led by British officer Banastre Tarleton. Buford refused an initial demand to surrender, but when his men were attacked by Tarleton's cavalry, many threw down their arms to surrender. Buford apparently attempted to surrender. However, the British commanding officer Tarleton was shot at during the truce, causing his horse to fall and trap him. Loyalists and British troops were outraged at the breaking of the truce in this manner and proceeded to fall on the rebels. While Tarleton was trapped under his dead horse, men continued killing the Continental soldiers, including men who were not resisting. Little quarter was given to the patriots/rebels. Of the 400 or so Continentals, 113 were killed with sabers, 150 so badly injured they could not be moved and 53 prisoners were taken by the British and Loyalists. "Tarleton's quarter", thereafter became a common expression for refusing to take prisoners. In some subsequent battles in the Carolinas, few of the defeated were taken alive by either side. This 'Battle of Waxhaws’ became the subject of an intensive propaganda campaign by the Continental Army to bolster recruitment and incite resentment against the British. Equally plausible accounts of the battle by soldiers from both sides describe Tarleton as having no part in ordering a massacre as he had been trapped under his horse, and when freed immediately ordered thorough medical treatment of American prisoners and wounded. Please see the attached to complete and return to event organizer Greg Ohanesian, Past President SCSSAR by May 21, 2021. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Hamill, and Schwetke
May 28, 2021 Friday (1 pm) - 285th Anniversary of Patrick Henry's Birthday Muster time - 12:15 pm Location: Patrick Henry's Red Hill Plantation, 1250 Red Hill Road, Brookneal, VA 24528 Details: This is a VASSAR Presidential "Lift Your Voice" Initiative and Public Service Program. Red Hill Plantation is the final home and burial place of Patrick Henry, the fiery legislator and orator of the American Revolution. Henry bought Red Hill Plantation at his retirement in 1794 and occupied it until 1799, the year of his death. Reply to Eric Monday at emonday@ci.martinsville.va.us with copy to Ken Bonner at ken.l.bonner@gmail.comby May 22nd indicating if you will attend (yes/no), present a wreath (yes/no) and/or participate in Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Corey, Dennis, Geisinger, Greaf, Hall, Kelly, Schwetke (Bill), Schwoerer, and Weyler
May 22, 2021 Saturday (3 pm) - Revolutionary War Monument Dedication Muster time - 2:15 am Location: Shockoe Hill Cemetery, Hospital Road, Richmond, VA Details: This is a State - level event. The VASSAR is dedicating a Monument to Patriots buried in Shockoe Hill Cemetery. Color Guard participants will have the opportunity to earn five more grave markings towards the Grave Marking medal. Reply to Bill Schwetke at schwetke.sar@gmail.com with copy to Ken Bonner at ken.l.bonner@gmail.comby May 15th indicating if you will attend (yes/no), present a wreath (yes/no) and/or participate in Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: Attendees: Belfield, Bonner, Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Duncan, Hall, Kelly, Lyman, Morris, Osborn, Robinson (Marc) Schwetke (Bill), and Weyler
May 15, 2021 Saturday (10 am) - Multiple Rev War and War of 1812 Grave Marking Muster time - 9:15 am Location: Ebenezer Cemetery, 20421 Airmont Road, Bluemont, VA Details: This is a Chapter - level event co-hosted by the Fairfax Resolves and Col William Grayson Chapters, VASSAR. Participation in this one event will count as five grave markings toward your National Grave Marking Medal. Directions from the east (66 & 50): Route 50 west through the traffic circle at routes 50 & 15. In I.7 miles past the circle, turn right onto Snickersville Turnpike/Rt. 734. In 11 miles turn left onto Airmont Road/Rt. 719. (Do not turn onto Ebenezer Church Road). In 2.7 miles the cemetery is on the right. Directionsfrom Route 7: Snickersville Turnpike/Rt. 734 intersects with Rt. 7 on the left just before entering Clark County when coming from the east, when coming from the west Snickersville Turnpike/Rt. 734 intersects on the right just after entering Loudoun County (first road in Loudoun County). Turn right onto Airmont Road/Rt 719—see above. Reply to Ross Schwalm at pahessian@gmail.com with copy to Ken Bonner at ken.l.bonner@gmail.comby May 11th indicating if you will attend (yes/no), present a wreath (yes/no) and/or participate in Color Guard (yes/no). Weather: At the present (9 May), the long-range forecast looks like 71 degrees with partly cloudy (which also means partly sunny :-) skies and very low chance of precipitation. Should be good weather for our event! Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Dennis, Duncan, Gill, Hall, Jameson, Mills (Andrew and Jack), Osborn, Parmeter, Phillips, Poe, Reynolds, Robinson (Marc), Schwetke (Bill and Doug), Schwoerer (Barry and Jacob), and Weyler. Also attending, from the Gen'l Adam Stephens Chapter WVSSAR and dual member of CJWII, are Englebright and Keesecker
May 8, 2021 Saturday (1 pm) - Martin's Station National Commemoration Muster time - 12:15 am Location: Historic Henry County Courthouse, 1 East Main Street, Martinsville, VA Details: This is a National - level event sponsored by the VASSAR and co-hosted by the Martin's Station and Col George Waller Chapters, VASSAR. The event this year is held in a new location in Martinsville, VA, where General Joseph Martin resided. There will be an onsite wreath laying ceremony at the General Joseph Martin Monument at the Historic Henry County Courthouse in Martinsville. Please see the attached flyer for registration instructions. You are asked to register to participate in the event (yes/no), wreath laying (yes/no), or Color Guard (yes/no). The event organizer, Andy Doss, may also be contacted at andydoss@vt.edu. Weather: Attendees: Coker, Corey, Doss, Geisinger, Hall, Jameson, Kelly, Morris, Robinson (Marc), Schwetke (Bill), and Weyler
May 8, 2021 Saturday - Wilderness Road/Raid at Martin's Station - CANCELED Location: After careful consideration, it is with sincere regret that the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park have decided to not hold the 2021 Raid at Martin’s Station (posted on the Park's Facebook page on 1 March 2021) Details: This National - level event sponsored by the VASSAR and hosted by the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park. Weather: Attendees: Bonner
May 1, 2021 Monday (am) - National Memorial Day Parade - pre-recording for playback on Memorial Day Location: National Mall, Washington, DC Details: This is a National - level event, organized locally by the George Washington Chapter, VASSAR. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Corey, Dooley, Elston, Jameson, Morris, Schmidt, Schwetke (Bill), and Weyler. There were two additional participants present, and I'm trying to identify them (see picture).
April 22 - 25, 2021 Friday - Sunday - Fort Frederick 18th Century Market Fair - CANCELED Location: The Friends of Fort Frederick regretfully announced that this year's Market Fair is canceled. The decision was reached after it was determined that they would not be able to meet the Governor's relaxed COVID requirements. Details: The annual Fort Frederick 18th Century Market Fair features the best period artisans, craftspeople, and sutlers together with an 18th Century encampment. Explore Maryland's French and Indian War era stone fort built in 1756. See hundreds of reenactors and 18th century sutlers (vendors) selling 18th C. period wares: paintings & prints, clothing & fabric, books, camp gear, flintlock rifles, fowlers, muskets, powder horns, bags, fireplace & cooking hardware, lanterns, copperware, etc. Attend the Auction on Saturday for great buys on items donated by the sutlers - all auction proceeds benefit the Park. Hosted by the "Friends of Fort Frederick" in partnership with the staff of Fort Frederick State Park. For more information, visit http://friendsoffortfrederick.info/market_fair.htm. Weather: Attendees:
April 24, 2021 Saturday (1 pm) – 263rd Anniversary of James Monroe's Birthday Location: James Monroe's Highland, 2050 James Monroe Parkway, Charlottsville, VA Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the James Monroe Chapter, VASSAR. Wreaths will be presented at Highland, President Monroe's residence between 1799 and 1823, in recognition of his birthday (actual date 28 April, 1758). Please see the attached flyer for additional details including registration directions and deadlines. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, O'Kelley
April 18, 2021 Sunday (3 - 5 pm) – Patriots’ Day Location: Arlington National Cemetery, Lexington Minuteman Memorial, Sec 1-297-34 Details: This National - level event is also now a VASSAR Presidential Initiative. Organized locally by the Fairfax Resolves Chapter, VASSAR memorializes the eight men of the Lexington Militia killed in action on 19 April, 1775. Weather: Attendees: Bonner
April 12, 2021 (10 am) - 245th Commemoration of the Signing of the Halifax Resolves Location: Virtual Event Details: This National - level event sponsored by the Halifax Resolves Chapter, NCSSAR. The Halifax Resolves was a name later given to the resolution adopted by North Carolina on 12 April, 1776. The adoption of the resolution was the first official action in the American Colonies calling for independence from Great Britain during the American Revolution. The Halifax Resolves helped pave the way for the presentation to Congress of the United States Declaration of Independence less than three months later. Please use the following link to RSVP no later than April 5th if possible. https://forms.gle/6FuAs1v29EfdH3G46 Invitations to participate in a Zoom event will follow your registration. If you would like to present a wreath, that is very much appreciated, and the opportunity is scheduled into the event planning. If you have any questions, please contact Steve Avent at savent917@gmail.com. Thank you, Geoffrey S Pittard, President, Halifax Resolves Chapter NCSAR Weather: Attendees: Bonner
April 11, 2021 (1 pm) - 278th Anniversary of Thomas Jefferson's Birthday Location: Historic Tuckahoe, 12601 River Rd, Richmond, VA 23238 Details: This Chapter - level event sponsored by the Thomas Jefferson Chapter, VASSAR. The Virginia SAR will commemorate the 278th Anniversary of Thomas Jefferson's Birthday with a wreath laying ceremony on Sunday, April 11th, at Historic Tuckahoe, Thomas Jefferson's boyhood home. This event is sponsored by the Thomas Jefferson chapter and includes a tour of the house and grounds. Come see the house where Jefferson lived and the school house on the grounds where he received his first education. See the attached invitation for more information.
The cost of this event is $10 per person, which covers our use of the property and the discounted group tour rate. This is a special opportunity to see the house and grounds, which are only open for group tours at this time. This is a special SAR group tour at a 50% reduced rate. Normal admission is $20 per person. Funds will be collected onsite on the day of the event.
Check in begins at 1:00pm, the tour will begin at 1:30pm and the outdoor wreath laying ceremony will take place at 3:00pm. You do not have to participate in the tour to participate in the wreath laying ceremony. However, the cost per person applies even if you only participate in the wreath laying ceremony. You are free to explore the grounds on your own after the ceremony.
State limitations on gatherings in Virginia were eased yesterday to 100 for outdoor gatherings and 50 for indoor gatherings. Historic Tuckahoe will break us into smaller groups for the house tour.
To register for this event, email your name, title and chapter to Chapter President David Cooke at xcooke66@gmail.com by Sunday, April 4th stating if you will participate in the tour (yes/no), wreath laying (yes/no) or Color Guard (yes/no).
Weather: Attendees: Belfield, Bonner, Corey, Kelly, Morris, Osborn, Weyler, and Williams
March 20, 2021 Saturday (10 am) - 246th Anniversary of Patrick Henry's Speech Location: Richmond, VA - Virtual Event Details: This is a VASSAR Presidential "Lift Your Voice" Initiative and Public Service Program, organized locally by the Richmond Chapter, VASSAR. This event is traditionally a full-costumed re-enactment and performance of Patrick Henry's famous speech on 23 March, 1775 where he spoke the words "Give me Liberty or Give me Death". Weather: Attendees: Belfield, Bonner, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Doss, Greaf, Hall, Hamilton, Hodges, Jameson, LaFlam, McKinley, Morris, Osborn, Parmeter, Phillips, Robinson (Marc), Schwetke (Bill), Simmons, and Weyler
March 13, 2021 Saturday (3 pm) – 240th Commemoration of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse Location: Virtual Event Details: This is a National - level event, of interest to the VASSAR and hosted by the NCSSAR, who will host a virtual ceremony via Zoom. Please register your attendance here. Sign in to Zoom starting at 2:00 PM 13 March 2021. The event will start at 3:00 PM. Please enter the number assigned and emailed to you on 12 March, with the link, in front of your name. Instructions will be included in the link. Registration Point of Contact is George Strunk, gkstrunk2@gmail.com, (919)778-8324. The Battle of Guilford Courthouse in North Carolina, on March 15, 1781, proved pivotal to the American victory in the American Revolutionary War (1775-83). Although British troops under Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis (1738-1805) scored a tactical victory at Guilford Courthouse over American forces under Major General Nathanael Greene (1742-86), the British suffered significant troop losses during the battle. Afterward, Cornwallis abandoned his campaign for the Carolinas and instead took his army into Virginia, where in October of that year he surrendered to General George Washington (1732-99) following the Battle of Yorktown, the last major land battle of the war. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner
March 12, 2021 Saturday (10 am) – Special Congress Location: Westfields Marriott, Chantilly, VA - registered delegates with credentials only Details: This is a National - level event, held for the purpose of considering changes to the NSSAR Constitution, Article VIII, to allow Congresses and Special Congresses by alternative means and defining alternative means. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Schwetke (Bill)
February 27, 2021 Saturday (10 am) – 245th Commemoration of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge Location: Virtual Event Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the Lower Cape Fear Chapter NCSSAR and Stamp Defiance Chapter NCDAR, with Moores Creek National Battlefield. The park will hold a “virtual” Anniversary event beginning at 10 am on Saturday 27 February and continuing through Sunday February 28, via Facebook Live, their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/moorescreeknps) as well as Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/moorescreek_nps/), Twitter (https://twitter.com/MooresCreekNPS), and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRyckhSy0fgvxwBGH74AA1w?view_as=subscriber). Please click here to Register for wreath presentations, bringing Greetings and Color Guard participation before 20 February 2021. A practice Zoom call will be conducted on Thursday, 25 February 2021 at 10:00 am. Event Coordinator – John O. Thornhill. In the Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge in North Carolina on 27 February, 1776, during the Revolutionary War (1775-83), American forces defeated the British. The victory ended British authority in North Carolina and provided an important boost to Patriot morale. Within two months of the American victory, on 12 April, 1776, North Carolina became the first colony to vote in favor of independence from Britain. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner
~ February 27, 2021 Saturday – 255th Commemoration of the 1766 Leedstown Resolutions Location: TBA Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the James Monroe Chapter, VASSAR. Weather: Attendees:
February 22nd, 2021 Monday (4 pm) – George Washington's Birthday and Reading of his Farewell Address Location: Culpeper Masonic Cemetery, 1012 N Main Street, Culpeper, VA 22701 Details: This is a Chapter- level event, hosted by the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR. This observance is conducted near the graves of Gen'l Edward Stevens and Col John Jameson. For more information, please contact Chapter President Charles Jameson at ccj1947@gmail.com. Weather: Attendees: Carrigan, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Dennis, Jameson, Morris, Parmeter, Schwetke (Bill) and Weyler
February 20, 2021 Saturday (10 am) – 240th Commemoration of the Crossing of the Dan Location: Virtual Event Details: This is a National - level event, of interest to the VASSAR and hosted by the Dan River Chapter VASSAR. Following an American victory at the Battle of Cowpens in South Carolina in January 1781, General Nathanael Greene’s southern army outran British forces under Lord Cornwallis as both armies raced northward across the Carolinas. In what became known as the Race to the Dan, a few weeks later, on 14 February, 1781, became “The Crossing” when Greene’s army crossed the Dan River to safety near South Boston. The Crossing of the Dan became a turning point in the American Revolution, precipitating events that led to the British surrender at Yorktown. Weather: Attendees: Bonner, Branche, Callaway, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Fowlkes, Geisinger, Hall, Hamilton, Jameson, Kelly, Marlowe, Morris, O'Kelley, Osborn, Phillips, Potter, Roderick, Schwetke (Bill), and Weyler
February 15, 2021 Monday – George Washington Birthday Parade - CANCELED This year's parade is canceled due to COVID, however there are a number of smaller group and virtual events held. Visit http://washingtonbirthday.com/for more information. Location: Virtual Events Details: This is a Chapter - level event, organized by the George Washington Chapter VASSAR. Weather:
February 15, 2021 Monday – Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution - CANCELED This year's observance is canceled due to COVID, however there are a number of smaller group and virtual events held. Visit http://washingtonbirthday.com/for more information. Location: Virtual Events Details: This is a Chapter - level event, hosted by the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter VADAR. Weather: Attendees:
February 13, 2021 Saturday (10 am) - 242nd Commemoration of the Battle of Kettle Creek Location: Virtual Event Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the GASSAR. In order to register as a wreath presenter or as a ceremony viewer on Zoom, please click on the Google Forms Link below and provide the requested information. You may also contact the event coordinator Ed Rigel, Historic Sites and Celebrations Committee, GASSAR, at (770) 757-6070 or via email at erigel@dogwood.net. The Battle of Kettle Creek fought on 14 February, 1779 was a minor encounter in the back country of Georgia during the American Revolutionary War. It was fought in Wilkes County about eight miles from present-day Washington, GA. A militia force of Patriots decisively defeated and scattered a Loyalist militia force that was on its way to British-controlled Augusta. The victory demonstrated the inability of British forces to hold the interior of the state, or to protect even sizable numbers of Loyalist recruits outside their immediate area. The British, who had already decided to abandon Augusta, recovered some prestige a few weeks later, surprising a Patriot force in the Battle of Brier Creek. Georgia's back country would not come fully under British control until after the 1780 Siege of Charleston broke Patriot forces in the South. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Jameson, LaFlam, Morris, Osborn, Parmeter, Robinson (Clayton), Robinson (Marc), Schwetke (Bill), Simmons, and Thomas (Jeff)
February 6, 2021 Saturday – 131st Annual VASSAR Meeting on Zoom Location: Zoom Meeting, based out of the Omni Richmond Details: This is a State - level event, hosted by the VASSAR, including Annual Meeting, Public Service, Memorial, and Chapter Awards, as well as the installation of 2021 - 2022 Officers and the Society's 101st President. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner
February 4, 2021 Thursday (7 pm) – VASSAR Color Guard Workshop Meeting on Zoom Location: Zoom Meeting - details emailed separately to registered participants Details: This is a State - level event, hosted by the VASSAR Color Guard during the Societies' 131st Annual Meeting. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner, Christensen, Coggins, Cook, Corey, Crain, Daniel, Eilts, Geisinger, Greaf, Hall, Jameson, Lynch, McKinley, Melhuish, Morris, Osborn, Parmerter, Phillips, Pridgen, Robinson (Marc), Roth, Schwetke (Bill), Schwetke (Doug), and Weyler
January 30, 2021 Saturday (10:00 - 11:30 am) - 240th Commemoration of the Battle of Cowen's Ford (Note - the new issue of SAR Color Guardsman Magazine publishes the date of 1 Feburary, however NCSSAR and sponsoring Mecklenburg Chapter have scheduled for 30 January - if this changes, I will update Dispatches) Location: Virtual Event - via Zoom Details: This is a National - level event, hosted by the Mecklenburg Chapter NCSSAR. Please visit https://www.ncssar.org/event/zoom-240th-anniversary-of-the-battle-of-cowans-ford/ by 24 January, 2021 to RSVP for participation and wreath presentations. The Zoom link for this event is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85246573418?pwd=VklrV1NkVzZZTXBpOE92WXFGUUV2Zz09, and will open for attendees to join at 9:30 am. You may also contact Joe Culik at jc@fairview-law.com if you have any questions. The Battle of Cowan's Ford was fought on 1 February, 1781 at Cowan's Ford on the Catawba River in northwestern Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, between a force of about 5,000 British and fewer than a thousand Americans who were attempting to slow the British advance across the river. The American general William Lee Davidson was killed in this battle. Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner, Cook, Corey, Hall, Hamilton, Robinson (Marc)
January 17, 2021 Sunday (1 pm) - 240th Commemoration of the Battle of Cowpens Location: Virtual Event - via Cowpens National Battlefield Facebook Page Details: This is a National - level event, of interest to the VASSAR and hosted by the Daniel Morgan Chapter SCSSAR. The deadline for registration for inclusion of names scrolled on the Facebook page is 31 December, 2020. I believe the Facebook site is https://www.facebook.com/CowpensNationalBattlefield. Please see the attached invitation below. The Battle of Cowpens was an engagement during the American Revolutionary War fought on 17 January, 1781, between American Colonial forces under Brigadier General Daniel Morgan and British forces under Lieutenant Colonel Sir Banastre Tarleton, as part of the campaign in the Carolinas (North and South ). Weather: N/A Attendees: Bonner, Christensen, Cook, Corey, Daniel, Englebright, Hall, Hamilton, Osborn, Parmeter, Poe, Robinson (Marc), Simmons