Historic Ties Come to Life at Long Branch: “Give Me Liberty” Exhibition Arrives November 7

A traveling exhibition from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture is bringing national history home to Clarke County this fall. From November 7 through December 12, 2025, Long Branch Historic House & Farm will host “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation,” a free, public exhibition exploring Virginia’s pivotal role in the founding of the United States.

The exhibit delves deep into Virginia’s contributions to American independence and identity, but it also does something uniquely powerful—it connects those sweeping events of the past to the very people who once lived at Long Branch.

Long Branch’s Founding Ties

The exhibition will highlight three key historical figures connected to Long Branch who played roles in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and early American diplomacy. Their stories—once limited to textbooks—will come to life through documents, artifacts, and personal accounts.

One of the strongest connections is to Thomas Nelson, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence and father of Philip Nelson, Long Branch’s second owner. Nelson’s name appears at the bottom center of the Declaration, and his legacy as a patriot and Virginian will be spotlighted through interpretive displays.

“This exhibition helps show how national history is often deeply local,” said a spokesperson for Long Branch. “The Nelson family’s connection to both Long Branch and America’s founding is a powerful reminder of how Virginia helped shape our country’s ideals.”

A Captain’s Sacrifice in the War of 1812

The exhibition also turns to the War of 1812, highlighting Robert Carter Burwell, Long Branch’s first owner. Burwell served as a captain in the U.S. Army and died in service during the war against the British. In tribute to his role, visitors will see original guns, swords, and militaria from the era, offering a vivid glimpse into the tools and trials of early American soldiers.

A French Ally’s Personal Gift

Another remarkable connection in the exhibit involves the famed French officer Marquis de Lafayette, whose support helped win the Revolutionary War—particularly at the Battle of Yorktown. As the story goes, Lafayette formed a close friendship with John Holker, a French diplomat and father of Adelaide Nelson, Long Branch’s third owner.

As a symbol of that friendship, Lafayette gave Holker a camp saucepan and lid, stamped with his initials. That personal gift, passed down through generations of the Nelson family, will be on public display as part of the exhibition.

“It’s rare to have such a direct, personal artifact tied to someone like Lafayette,” Long Branch staff noted. “It connects our local history to a global moment of alliance and victory.”

Free Admission and Community Access

“Give Me Liberty” is part of a broader initiative by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture to bring key moments of the American story to communities across the Commonwealth. The exhibition offers an accessible way for students, families, and history lovers to engage with Virginia’s—and America’s—founding era.

Admission is free, and visitors of all ages are encouraged to come explore the legacy of liberty, leadership, and sacrifice that helped shape the nation—and that remains deeply rooted in the land and legacy of Long Branch.

Click here for more information about events at Long Branch.