News Summary
New Kent is gearing up for a historic weekend from May 2 to May 4, celebrating the 250th anniversary of Patrick Henry’s bold demand for gunpowder’s return. The festivities will take place at The New Kent Ordinary, featuring historic talks, military drills, and community activities. Families and history enthusiasts will have the opportunity to engage with reenactors and learn about this pivotal moment in American history. This free event promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with learning and community spirit, making it a must-attend for all.
New Kent Gets Ready for a Historic Weekend Celebration!
New Kent, get your calendars ready, because an exciting weekend is just around the corner! From May 2 through May 4, the town will celebrate the 250th anniversary of a remarkable moment in history – Patrick Henry’s bold demand for the return of stolen gunpowder! This is a perfect opportunity for history buffs and families alike to dive into a slice of the past that shaped our great nation’s foundation.
The Heart of the Celebration
The festivities will unfold at The New Kent Ordinary, the perfect setting to honor such a pivotal event in our history. Back in 1775, on April 21, gunpowder was taken from the powder magazine located in Williamsburg, prompting Patrick Henry to take matters into his own hands. He passionately led a group of volunteer militia from Hanover County to Williamsburg, demanding the gunpowder’s return. How cool is it that we get to commemorate that with a fun-filled weekend event?
A Weekend Full of Fun!
This event is totally free and open to the public, making it a fantastic opportunity for families and individuals to step back in time while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere. The weekend kicks off with an intriguing historic talk on May 2 at 7 p.m. in the New Kent Courthouse Boardroom, featuring local historian Mike Cecere.
The excitement doesn’t stop there! On May 3 and May 4, come on down to experience the lively encampment that opens its doors at 10 a.m. both days. Get ready to meet reenactors, see their amazing horses, and soak up the sights and sounds of history! You will find this all happening at 12000 New Kent Highway.
Making History Together
The festivities truly kick into high gear at 11 a.m. on both days, where the New Kent Resolves will be adopted. This is one moment you won’t want to miss! Shortly after, volunteers will assemble to undertake military drills and demonstrations that will transport you straight back to 1775.
And what would a celebration of Patrick Henry be without his presence? He is scheduled to arrive at noon each day, engaging with attendees and sharing the historical context of the march. This is your chance to connect with the past like never before!
Feeling inspired? Don’t forget that the drills, demonstrations, and recruitment efforts will repeat again at 2 p.m. each afternoon. It’s a thrilling way to witness history come alive!
Closing the Camp
After a day packed with excitement and learning, the encampment will wrap up at 4 p.m. on both days. This is a fantastic chance to take home some lasting memories, learn a lot, and maybe even spark an interest in history for the younger generation.
Support from the Community
This amazing event has been made possible through the dedicated efforts of the New Kent Historical Society and the New Kent Historic Commission, along with generous sponsorship from The New Kent Ordinary. Their teamwork showcases their commitment to preserving the rich history of New Kent and bringing it to life for everyone to enjoy.
So gather your friends and family, and prepare for a weekend filled with history, excitement, and community spirit. Mark your calendars for May 2-4 and get ready to celebrate New Kent’s amazing past!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: New Kent Commemoration Event
- Wikipedia: Patrick Henry
- Broadband Breakfast: Virginia Broadband Project
- Google Search: Virginia broadband project
- Rhode Island Current: Labor Violations Settlement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Labor Law
- Colorado Politics: Leaders’ New Year Resolutions
- Google News: New Year’s Resolutions
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
