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
Celebrations
Washington Birthday Wishes
This month marks the 284th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Americans have celebrated our first president's birthday since long before it became an official national holiday in the late 1800s. In fact, early Americans even marked George's birth during his lifetime, most notably with "Birthnight Balls" that replicated the grand dances held in Britain to celebrate the monarch's birthday. In 1879, an Act … Continue reading Washington Birthday Wishes
Video: George Washington’s Birthday at Ferry Farm
Celebrate George Washington’s 284th birthday at his boyhood home with fun activities for the whole family, including games, crafts, exhibits, the Stone Throw Challenge (weather permitting), history theater, and birthday cake! “General Washington” will attend the Birthday Celebration to talk about his youth on the farm! The video below is a preview of the celebration. … Continue reading Video: George Washington’s Birthday at Ferry Farm
Photos: “Twelfth Night at Kenmore” 2016
Each January, Historic Kenmore presents Twelfth Night at Kenmore, a dramatic theater presentation that imagines the first Christmas that Fielding and Betty Washington Lewis spent in their newly built home. The play is set in January 1776 and that year is not a time for the usual celebration. War brings fear, doubt, and frustration to the Lewis family and their … Continue reading Photos: “Twelfth Night at Kenmore” 2016
Photos: Last Year’s “Twelfth Night at Kenmore”
This coming weekend -- Friday, January 8, Saturday, January 9, or Sunday, January 10 -- Historic Kenmore again presents Twelfth Night at Kenmore, a dramatic theater presentation set in January 1776. It is the first Christmas that Fielding and Betty Washington Lewis celebrate in their newly built home. It is not the usual celebration, however. War brings fear, doubt, … Continue reading Photos: Last Year’s “Twelfth Night at Kenmore”
Video: “Twelfth Night at Kenmore,” A Preview
On January 8, 9, and 10, Historic Kenmore presents "Twelfth Night at Kenmore," a dramatic theater performance inside the 18th century home of Fielding and Betty Lewis. This short video previews the performance. Immerse yourself in the experience the candlelight, music, and decorations of an eighteenth-century Christmas! Performance Times: 3:00, 3:45, 4:45 and 5:30 p.m. Reservations … Continue reading Video: “Twelfth Night at Kenmore,” A Preview
Photos: Holiday Decorations at Ferry Farm & Kenmore
The George Washington Foundation wishes everyone a joyous holiday season! Enjoy these photos of holiday decorations created by wonderful volunteers! The George Washington Foundation Garden Guild decorated at Kenmore and the Lake Anna Garden Club decorated at Ferry Farm. There is still time to see Historic Kenmore and George Washington's Ferry Farm adorned for the season as … Continue reading Photos: Holiday Decorations at Ferry Farm & Kenmore
A Christmas of Uncertainty, December 1775
When Fielding Lewis moved his family into their new home – the magnificent brick house we call Kenmore – in late 1775 it was the culmination of years of hard work and planning. It might seem as though that year’s holiday season should have been one of continual joy. Unfortunately, the Lewis family’s first Christmas … Continue reading A Christmas of Uncertainty, December 1775
Photos: 2nd Annual “A Wee Christmas” at Kenmore
For the second year, Historic Kenmore presents "A Wee Christmas," an exhibit for the holiday season of highly detailed, replica dollhouses - including the Kenmore mansion - and miniatures in the Crowninshield Museum Building. Come to Kenmore and share memories of your dollhouse with children and grandchildren as you explore the treasures in this festive … Continue reading Photos: 2nd Annual “A Wee Christmas” at Kenmore
Photos: 29th Annual Gingerbread House Contest at Ferry Farm
It's a long-standing holiday tradition! Adults and children alike will enjoy the sights and smells of the festive creations displayed at George Washington’s Ferry Farm! This year's theme is "George Washington Slept Here" and a list of contest winners can be seen here (PDF). Visitors may vote for their favorite and this 'people's choice' winner will be … Continue reading Photos: 29th Annual Gingerbread House Contest at Ferry Farm
Lives & Legacies 