Local Author Anne Marchant Brings History to Life at Strasburg Museum Book Signing

Two weeks ago, on August 9, the Strasburg Museum welcomed a familiar face—Anne Marchant, PhD—for a special book signing that celebrated storytelling, local history, and community generosity. The retired university professor and now accomplished novelist spent the day meeting readers, signing books, and sharing the inspiration behind her historically rooted fiction.

Marchant, who once taught information technology and holds a doctorate in Ancient Near Eastern Studies, has long been tied to the Strasburg Museum. Years ago, while teaching at Shenandoah University, she and her students collaborated with the museum to improve its website and exhibit information. Her return earlier this month, this time as an author, brought that relationship full circle.

The event featured her two latest works of adult historical fiction: Revenants of the Shenandoah Valley and Revenants of the Mountain People. Both novels follow the character Blair Carter, a Virginia history teacher who writes ghost stories and finds herself entangled in mysteries that uncover the hidden truths of the Shenandoah region.

In Revenants of the Shenandoah Valley, Blair is approached by a wealthy Civil War artifact collector who believes she can help him locate the legendary Mosby Treasure. But the search turns deadly, leading Blair into a murder investigation filled with historical twists and eerie echoes of the past. The novel doesn’t just entertain—it also sheds light on how historical injustices linger in modern times.

The second book, Revenants of the Mountain People, takes readers deeper into regional history. Blair joins an archaeological team working on a Native American site while teaching about the mountain communities displaced to create Shenandoah National Park. The story interweaves a new murder mystery with themes of environmental justice, displacement, and the lasting impact of lost homelands—all while developing a subtle romance for its central character.

What makes Marchant’s work especially resonant is her use of fiction as a way to explore real historical events and issues. Though written for adult readers, the novels are grounded in carefully researched history and filled with settings and figures that will feel familiar to anyone who knows the Shenandoah Valley.

All proceeds from book sales at the signing were donated directly to the Strasburg Museum, a gesture that did not go unnoticed. Museum staff extended their heartfelt thanks, calling Marchant’s generosity and continued involvement “deeply appreciated.”

Attendees of the event enjoyed not only the chance to meet a local author but also the opportunity to support the museum’s mission of preserving regional history. Copies of Marchant’s books were available for purchase and quickly found their way into the hands of eager readers who value stories that connect the past with the present.

Known for her wit, passion for justice, and abiding love for adopted cats, Marchant continues to explore themes of history, memory, and identity through fiction. Her recent visit reminded everyone that the Shenandoah Valley is not only rich in history, but also rich in storytellers who know how to bring it to life.

About the Strasburg Museum
Located in a historic railroad depot and designated a National Historic Landmark since 1970, the Strasburg Museum celebrates over 250 years of small-town life in the Shenandoah Valley. Open from May through October, Friday to Sunday, the museum invites visitors to explore exhibits on local history, a popular model train display (open Saturdays), and a charming gift shop (cash only). Admission is $5 for adults. Volunteers are always welcome to serve as docents and help share Strasburg’s story. For more information, visit the museum at 440 East King Street or visit https://strasburgmuseum.org/.