Shenandoah County 250th Anniversary Celebration

On September 10, 2022, the Colonel James Wood II and Daniel Morgan Chapters of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) participated in the Shenandoah County 250th Anniversary Celebration at the Shenandoah Germanic Heritage Museum, Hottel/Keller Homestead, Tom’s Brook, Virginia. The commemoration included vendors and organizations with an interest in history.

Participants Brian Bayliss, Erick Moore, Marc Robinson and Patrick Moore. (Photo courtesy of Marc Robinson)

The event was held on land which was the original homestead of George Keller and Barbara Hottel. They received a land grant from Lord Thomas Fairfax given in 1750, prior to the area becoming a county in 1772. The festival included historical exhibits and demonstrations including a blacksmith, farrier, military encampments from different eras, a treadle sewing machine, Shenandoah County long rifles, and more. The property features the Shenandoah Germanic Heritage Museum and festival goers were able to visit an early 1800s farmhouse, the Loom House Museum, and a springhouse.

Participants Frederick “Freddie” Meyle, Marc Robinson, Dale Corey, Brian Bayliss and Richard Tyler. (Photo courtesy of Dale Corey)

The Colonel James Wood II Chapter set up a display, along with the French and Indian War Foundation and Mercer’s Company, to give visitors a glimpse into life in the 18th century in what became Shenandoah County. Presentations were given on settlement of the region, living conditions, muskets, the role of militia and home guards and the effect of the French and Indian War and the American Revolution on this part of the Shenandoah Valley.

Compatriots of the SAR providing presentations included Dale Corey, Erick Moore, Patrick Moore, Marc Robinson and Richard Tyler. Paul Parish of the Daniel Morgan Chapter along with his wife Lis provided presentations weaving on looms and fire starting as practiced in the 18th century. This included the use of flint and steel and a magnifying glass as well as safety precautions. Potential members who assisted included Brian Bayliss and Frederick “Freddie” Meyle.

Freddie Melye and Marc Robinson giving a presentation on life in the 18th century. (Photo courtesy of Dale Corey)