Writing to wife Abigail following Congress’s adoption of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams famously outlined his vision for how future generations would celebrate the historic moment. “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival,” Adams wrote in an oft quoted passage. “It ought to … Continue reading “Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations”: Celebrating Independence
Summer Greens from the Colonial Garden
Typically, when modern Americans think of summer barbecue food, they think of meat grilled over an open flame. While that would certainly appeal to an eighteenth century audience, it is not necessarily what they considered ‘typical’ summer fare. Large livestock like pigs and cattle were usually slaughtered and butchered in the late fall/early winter when … Continue reading Summer Greens from the Colonial Garden
Photos: “Hamlet” at Kenmore’s Shakespeare on the Lawn
Shakespeare on the Lawn at Historic Kenmore returns this weekend with two more performances of Hamlet. Catch the one of the final shows at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 18 or Sunday, June 19. Arrive early to tour the mansion and view the refurnishing. Bring folding chairs or a blanket and a picnic! Thank you to sponsor Lewis Insurance … Continue reading Photos: “Hamlet” at Kenmore’s Shakespeare on the Lawn
Video: Picnicking with Washington
In this video, we talk about how people, including George Washington, picnicked in the 18th century and take a closer look at one particular piece of furniture used while on a picnic 200 years ago. You can read more about picnicking customs of the 1700s here.
Fredericksburg’s June Fair
Ask someone to list traditional summertime activities and they will probably mention picnics, family reunions, beach vacations, mountain getaways, and baseball games. Their list is likely to include going to the fair as well. The fair as a summer pastime is a long tradition and like many American traditions can be traced back to the … Continue reading Fredericksburg’s June Fair
“Dined at the Barbicue”: Washington Goes Picnicking
In the summer of 1770, George Washington came to Fredericksburg for an extended stay. His time here would seem familiar to anyone who has gone back to their childhood hometown. While in town he visited his mother, went to the tavern to play cards with old friends, and stayed with his sister and brother-in-law. But … Continue reading “Dined at the Barbicue”: Washington Goes Picnicking
The ‘Monuments Men’ of World War II Come to Kenmore
Editor's Note: This Memorial Day, we again remember 'The Monuments Men' and their invaluable work to locate and save European art looted by the Nazis during World War II as well as their continued efforts to conserve and preserve art after the war, including art at Historic Kenmore. This post originally appeared on Lives & Legacies … Continue reading The ‘Monuments Men’ of World War II Come to Kenmore
To See or Not to See? Portraying Hamlet in the 18th Century
Editor's Note: At the annual Shakespeare on the Lawn performances this June, Historic Kenmore will present Hamlet. The following blog post looks at the actors who played the most famous of Shakespeare's roles during the 18th century. Details about attending the performances at Kenmore can be found at the end of this entry. Since the time when Richard Burbage … Continue reading To See or Not to See? Portraying Hamlet in the 18th Century
May Flowers
Beautiful flowers are in bloom in the demonstration garden at George Washington's Ferry Farm!
Keeping Secrets, 18th Century Style
In today’s world we keep our valuables, like money, important documents, jewelry, etc. locked safely in a bank vault or safety deposit box. These options for safe-keeping of valuables were not available in 18th century America, and so our ancestors had to be a bit more creative in hiding their important items from would-be thieves … Continue reading Keeping Secrets, 18th Century Style
Lives & Legacies 