Gunpowder Incident

The Gunpowder Incident, also known as the Powder Alarm or Gunpowder Affair, was a significant event in the lead-up to the American Revolutionary War. On April 21, 1775, Governor Dunmore of Virginia ordered the removal of gunpowder from the Williamsburg powder magazine, sparking colonial unrest and pushing Virginia closer to open rebellion.

Key Aspects of the Gunpowder Incident:

Governor Dunmore's Actions: Lord Dunmore, the Royal Governor of Virginia, ordered the removal of gunpowder from the Williamsburg powder magazine to a Royal Navy ship. This action was taken secretly under the cover of darkness.
Colonists' Reaction: The colonists, led by Patrick Henry, were outraged by Dunmore's actions and perceived it as a direct threat to their rights and liberties. Militia Formation: Word of Dunmore's actions spread quickly, and militia companies began mustering throughout the colony, including a march on Williamsburg led by Patrick Henry.
Resolution without Violence: A compromise was reached when Carter Braxton negotiated a payment of £330 to Henry, preventing further violence and restoring the gunpowder to the colony's control.
Impact on Royal Authority: The Gunpowder Incident marked a significant weakening of royal authority in Virginia. Dunmore, fearing for his safety, later retreated to a naval vessel, effectively ending royal governance in the colony.
Escalation towards Revolution: This event, occurring before the Battles of Lexington and Concord were widely known in Virginia, is considered a significant step towards the outbreak of the Revolutionary War in the colony.

250th Anniversary and Commemoration : 2025 Virginia SAR Presidential Initiative

SAR circular logo for 250th Anniversary of Founding of the United States Step into history and witness the legacy of the American Revolution come to life at the 250th Anniversary Commemoration of the Gunpowder Incident, hosted by the Virginia SAR and the Williamsburg Chapter SAR. On Saturday, May 3, 2025, bring your family and friends to honor the courageous Virginians who stood against tyranny in 1775, marking a pivotal moment in our nation's founding. This special event will immerse attendees in the sights and stories of the past, offering an unforgettable experience filled with ceremony, historical interpretation, and patriotic reflection. Don't miss this chance to connect with history, pay tribute to our forebears, and inspire future generations with the spirit of liberty!