St. John's Church in Richmond became famous as a living memorial to American liberty when 120 Virginia colonial leaders, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Nelson, Jr., and Patrick Henry, met there in the spring of 1775 to avoid the wrath of Royal Governor Lord Dunmore in Williamsburg.
The Second Virginia Convention, originally called to consider the recent proceedings of America's first Continental Congress became the setting for Patrick Henry's bold call for arming the colony of Virginia. Henry proposed that a well-regulated militia was necessary for the safety and security of a free government and he advocated putting Virginia in a posture of defense.
Henry's famous speech in defense of liberty occurred on March 23, 1775 inside this Church. Henry's timely resolutions passed by a narrow margin and the American Revolution began the following month when shots were fired at Lexington and Concord. Members of the Second Virginia Convention went on to play leading roles in the formation of the United States. George Washington became Commanding General of the Continental Army, Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, and Patrick Henry became the first Governor of the independent Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Patrick Henry Committee of St. John's Church is pleased to present reenactments at the original location of the Second Virginia Convention of March 1775. Today, living history interpreters and professional actors in 1770's attire portray ten of the "founding fathers" who participated in the animated convention debates culminating with Mr. Patrick Henry's "Liberty or Death" speech.
Each reenactment lasts approximately 45 minutes.
PUBLIC REENACTMENTS
Regular summer reenactments began during America's Bicentennial in 1976. This event attracts thousands of people each summer and is generally recognized as the longest running historical performance in Richmond. These very popular reenactments are held every Sunday in the summer beginning Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day weekend. 2007 will be the 32nd season of the reenactment and the 232nd anniversary of Patrick Henry's speech.
A special anniversary performance is held on the Sunday in March closest to March 23, the actual date of Henry's speech. This year's performance will be held on March 25, 2007 at 2:00 p.m.
Church doors will open to the public for unreserved seating at 1:00 p.m. for each 2:00 p.m. show. The Church can accommodate up to 400 people. Free on-street parking is available. A voluntary donation to defray expenses is collected at the end of each performance.
PRIVATE REENACTMENTS
Organizations and groups may arrange for private reenactments throughout the year. Reenactments can be scheduled during the day or evening, Monday through Sunday. The fee for adult private reenactments is $750 and $700 for school groups.
These reenactments are very powerful, and most who attend find themselves experiencing a range of emotions. Below are comments from past attendees.
"I saw your reenactment today and found it profoundly moving. Simply standing in that church was powerful, but listening to the debate brought home how courageous our Founding Fathers were."
"The term most folks would use is 'unbelievable' but in this case it's better termed 'believable'. I still have chills."
"I was greatly stirred by hearing the true words that came from Henry's own mouth. Before hearing this speech, I really didn't know what I thought I was or whom I was proud of. But now all I am is one proud American. I will respect Henry, Jefferson, Washington, and all those who died for our freedom."
The Church can accommodate up to 400 people. A deposit of $200 is required with final payment due one month prior to your scheduled performance. Contact Rita Bagby at 804-648-5015 or by e-mail at programs@saintjohns.cc for more information and reservations.