Commemoration of the 1766 Leedstown Resolutions

​Compatriots from nine VASSAR Chapters (Fairfax Resolves, George Mason, Col. William Grayson, Culpeper Minutemen, James Monroe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Nelson, Jr., and George Washington) attended the 12th annual commemoration of the signing of the 1766 Leedstown Resolutions. The event, hosted by the Northern Neck of Virginia Historical Society, was held at the Ingleside Vineyards in Oak Grove, VA.  The Leedstown Resolutions were signed by 115 men on 27 Feb 1766 in protest of the 1765 Stamp Act and other intolerable acts enacted by Parliament.  The Rev. Charles Sydnor, President of the Northern Neck of Virginia Historical Society,  and Chris Flemer, with Ingleside Winery, gave opening remarks.  The VASSAR Color Guard presented and posted colors, which always adds to the dignity and solemnity of these events.  Gina Pezzuto played several pieces on the violin.  Charles Belfield, of the James Monroe Chapter, discussed the significance of the Leedstown Resolutions and read the names of the patriots who signed this document.  Several members in the audience were descendants of these signers.  Then, the Fifth President of the United States, James Monroe (portrayed by James Harrison III) discussed his life and place in U.S. History.  VASSAR President Peter Davenport then gave closing remarks, followed by presentation of wreaths by a number of VASSAR and VADAR chapters, as well as the Virginia Society Order of the Founders and Patriots of America.  The event was followed by a delicious lunch of fried oysters and fried chicken. (submitted by Paul Walden)

​Below photos:  (top to bottom:  Charles Belfield, James Monroe, and Peter Davenport