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Events and Tours

Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation

Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia

Chesterfield Center for the Arts at Chester

Eppington Foundation

Falling Creek Ironworks Foundation

Jefferson Davis Association

Henricus Historical Park

Mid-Lothian Mines and Railroads Park Foundation

Pocahontas State Park

Annual Events

2011 Calendar of Events

Fall 2011

Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail
Bon Air Library, Tuesday, September 13, 7-8:30 p.m.
Chester Library, Wednesday, September 21, 7-8:30 p.m.
Author Leonard Adkins, who has hiked the entire Appalachian Trail more than 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, will present a multimedia program, accompanied by folk and classical music, depicting a typical "thru" hike. Registration is recommended and begins August 30. Register online http://library.chesterfield.gov/ or call 804-751-CCPL.

Publick Days and the Godspeed - 400th Anniversary of Henricus
September 17-18, 2011
This special event will feature 100 living history interpreters from around the country portraying both English colonists and native inhabitants of circa 1611 Virginia. Interpreters will occupy the English city, the Indian site Arrohateck, and the Godspeed from Jamestown Settlement, and will demonstrate the commercial, mechanical, agricultural, domestic, and military skills of both cultures as would have been observed between the years 1611 and 1622. General admission is free. 10am-5pm. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

10th Anniversary ChesterFest
Saturday, September 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Features arts and crafts vendors, music and dance, 5K run, bike ride, games, a Kids Zone, dog show and other contests. Free. For more information: http://chesterfest.org/.

The Civil War on the James Tours
September 24-25, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-3 p.m., 4-6 p.m.
See the natural beauty of the James River while learning about the naval actions that took place in the area of Dutch Gap and Jones Neck from 1862-1865. Two-hour tours. Fee. For more information: 804-938-2350.

Eppington Heritage Day
Saturday, October 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Experience colonial history and plantation life. Activities include games, period music and dancing, storytelling, carriage rides, crafts and living history. Free. 14201 Eppes Falls Road. For more information: 804-751-4946.

School of the Musketeer
October 7-9, 2011
Participants will experience an entire weekend learning about military and civilian life as the first colonists in the New World. Instructors and other support personnel provide an interactive environment in 17th-century life and culture; overnight experience included. Fee is $30 and is all inclusive. Pre-registration is required. For information visit: www.kingdomoflucerne.com 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836.

1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign Van Tour
Saturday, October 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m
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Learn about the Bermuda Hundred Campaign, the only campaign fought entirely within the county. Stops include Dutch Gap, Battery Dantzler, Point of Rocks and Drewry's Bluff. Leaves from Henricus Historical Park, 301 Henricus Park Road. Preregistration required. [www.chesterfieldhistory.com]

The Civil War on the James Tour
October 8, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-3 p.m., 4-6 p.m.
See the natural beauty of the James River while learning about the naval actions that took place in the area of Dutch Gap and Jones Neck from 1862-1865. Two-hour tours. Fee. For more information: 804-938-2350.

Midlothian Village Day Festival and Craft Fair
Saturday, October 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Features crafters, community booths, games, entertainment, food vendors and more. Free. MidlothianFestival.net. Historic Tours of Mid-Lothian Mines also held at Midlothian Mines and Railroad Park, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Living history demonstrations, period music, children's activities and guided tours. Free. For more information: http://midlomines.org/ or 804-751-4946.

Haunted Henricus: Things That Go Bump in the Night
October 21-22, 2011
Experience an evening of spellbinding accounts and legendary tales as storytellers relive old English legends and folklore. Join us by the fireside and listen to European stories early Colonists told as they recounted tales from their homeland. Capture the essence of what a Colonist felt between 1607-1622 in a strange new land surrounded by danger, darkness and uncertain peril. The harvest is in, the nights grow longer and danger lurks in the shadows. Enjoy this evening of old-fashioned family fun! Light refreshments will be served. Pre-registration required. Limited attendance. $8 for adults and $6 for children 3-12. 7pm-9pm. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Haunted Lantern Tour
Friday, October 28, 7-10 p.m.

Explore the paranormal activity of Magnolia Grange. For ages 8 and older. Registration required. Fee. For more information: http://chesterfieldhistory.com/ or 804-796-7131.

Howlett Line Sesquicentennial Van Tour
Saturday, November 5, 2-5 p.m.
Visit Civil War sites that were part of a larger ring of fortifications that made up a Confederate line of defenses known as the Howlett Line. The tour stops at Battery Dantzler, Parker's Battery, Ware Bottom Church Battlefield, Howlett Line Park and Fort Wead. Leaves from Henricus Historical Park. Fee. Preregistration required. [http://chesterfieldhistory.com]

Pocahontas and the Powhatan People
November 5. 2011
Learn about Pocahontas and her life under the guidance of Reverend Alexander Whitaker at his Rocke Hall home. Explore her adopted Christian culture and contrast it with the Powhatan culture and traditions of her earlier life. Learn about the skills that enabled the Virginia Indians to flourish and how sharing their knowledge ensured the colonists' chances for survival. Daily Admission Fee. Additional Fee for Craft Activities. $8 for adults and $6 for children 3-12. 10am-5pm. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Veteran's Day Ceremony
Friday, November 11, 2 p.m
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On the 1917 Courthouse Green, 9901 Lori Rd. Free. For more information: http://chesterfieldhistory.com or 804-796-7131.

The Civil War on the James Tours
November 19, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1-3 p.m., 4-6 p.m.
See the natural beauty of the James River while learning about the naval actions that took place in the area of Dutch Gap and Jones Neck from 1862-1865. Two-hour tours. Fee. For more information: 804-938-2350.

Parade of Lights, Colonial Christmas and Patron Holiday Reception
Saturday, December 10, 2011 (1 p.m. -9 p.m.)

Enjoy the 19th Annual James River Parade of Lights, sponsored by the regional James River Advisory Council. A treasured Richmond tradition, thousands of residents look forward to viewing the procession of boats decorated with holiday lights each year. Spectators will be able to enjoy the parade and experience a colonial Christmas presented by historical interpreters at Henricus Historical Park free-of-charge. Colonial Christmas activities will take place from 1-9 p.m. with viewing of boat parade from 7:30-8 p.m. Henricus Historical Park will be closed from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on December 10. Additional information about Parade of Lights may be found at (www.jamesriveradvisorycouncil.com).

Henricus Foundation Patrons are invited to a complimentary holiday reception in Mount Malady from 5-8 p.m. on December 10. Current Patrons should make a reservation by December 2 via email to furnishs@chesterfield.gov (include name, address and phone number). Information about becoming a new Patron may be found at www.henricus.org/gift-club. Please direct any questions to Linda Dalch Jones at (804) 514-1098.

 

Previous Events This Year

Civil War on the James Tour
March 21 and 22, 2:30-4:30 p.m.

1
Experience the Civil War from a new perspective - the river. The Civil War on the James Tour traces the naval actions that took place in the area of Dutch Gap and Jones Neck from 1862-1865, amidst the natural beauty of the James River, which has changed little in the past 150 years. Cruise aboard the Discovery Barge II, a 24-foot, covered pontoon boat piloted by Capt. Mike Ostrander. Listen to Civil War historian Scott Williams tell stories about Confederate torpedoes, the construction of the Dutch Gap Canal, the Bermuda Hundred Campaign, and the James River Squadron's desperate attempt to break out at Trent's Reach. Tours cost $40 per person and will be offered March 21 and 22 and June 18, noon-2 p.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m. The tours depart from Deep Bottom Boat Landing. Contact Ostrander at 804-938-2350 to book a tour or for more information. For directions, visit discoverthejames.com.

Winter Lecture Series "From the American Revolution to the Present: Women's Contributions to the U.S. Army and the Nation"
Francoise Bonnell, Director, US Army Women's Museum

Friday, March 25, 2011, 7 p.m.
Lucy Corr Village Community Hall, 6800 Lucy Corr Blvd., Chesterfield.
Admission is free for Historical Society members and $5 for non-members. Reservations are recommended.
Download brochure. Call 804-796-7003 to reserve a seat.

Henricus Colledge - First University Chartered in North America
March 26-27, 2011

Discover the beginnings of the American educational tradition through family-friendly historical interpretations and demonstrations. Topics will be primarily presented through lectures, discussions and exhibits. Highlights will include discussions regarding the religious and political questions of the day. The Indian Offensive of 1622 will be discussed, as it postponed the construction of a Virginia college until 1693 in Williamsburg. $8 for adults and $6 for children 3-12. 10am-5pm. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Confederate History and Heritage Day
Saturday, April 2, 2011, noon-3 p.m.
Historic 1917 Courthouse green. Free.
The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia's annual event includes lectures, living-history demonstrations, period music, exhibitors and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Confederate monument. 1917 Courthouse, 10011 Iron Bridge Details: 804-796- 7131. Tim Batten MacLeod will speak about the role of Scottish Americans during the war and Sam Craighall will speak about the Role of the Confederate Navy at Drewry's Bluff. Details:804- 796-7121.

Fool for Art
A free, fun educational event held on the second Saturday. Participate in more than 100 free educational sessions and hands-on activities, shop at original art and craft vendors, and get their hands dirty celebrating Earth Day. Free. jttc.edu or 804-594-1527.

1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign
April 9, 2011, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Learning about the 1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign. Henricus Historical Park, 301 Henricus Park Road. April 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The fee is $8 per person. Registration: 804-748-1623. Preregistration is required.

1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign Tour
Saturday, April 9, 2011, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tour departs from Henricus Historical Park, 251 Henricus Park Road
Commemorate the Civil War Sesquicentennial by visiting some of the county's Civil War sites that played major roles during the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. Learn about the only campaign fought entirely within the confines of the county's borders. Discover why this campaign was overshadowed by military engagements elsewhere.Details: Bryan Truzzie, 804-751-4946

Butler's Offensive at Point of Rocks
Saturday, May 7, 2011,10 a.m.- noon

Commemorate the Civil War Sesquicentennial by visiting one of the more preserved Bermuda Hundred Campaign sites. This program will address the reconnaissance actions of Union troops, learn about Benjamin Butler's headquarters, the Union hospital where Clara Barton served and the imposing signal tower that became the eyes and ears for the Union Army. Wear comfortable shoes for this tour. Pre registration required. To register visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com. Tour meets at trail head below main parking lot next to Playground. Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Road. Details: Bryan Truzzie, 804-751-4946. Saturday, May 7, 10 a.m.- noon. The fee is $8 per person.

Webelos Geologist Activity Pin Workshop
Saturday, May 7, 2011, 2-4 p.m.
This program is designed for young boys ages 9-10 who wish to complete the requirements for their Geologist Activity Pin. This program will discuss the importance of coal mining to the region, address how coal is formed, discuss geology and rock formations.To register call 804-748-1623 and request Course#21897. Midlothian Mines Park, 13301 N. Woolridge Road. Saturday, May 7, 2-4 p.m. The fee is $10 per person.

Mount Malady - America's First Hospital
May 7 - 8, 2011, 10a.m.-5p.m.

This event details the science and technology of 17th-century medical care. Medical procedures and practices will be discussed and demonstrated. Topics will include the influx of a new workforce in Virginia, the challenges these workers faced in their new environment and the science behind the medical treatment of their maladies. $8 for adults and $6 for children 3-12. 10a.m.-5p.m. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Drewry's Bluff Living History
May 14-15, 2011, Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Demonstration of Civil War naval operations and interpretive tours of Confederate Fort Darling commemorate the 149th anniversary of the May 15, 1862 engagement that stopped the Union navy's advance on Richmond. Program hours are: Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Drewry's Bluff (Fort Darling), 7600 Fort Darling Road.

Falling Creek Ironworks Tour NEW
Saturday, May 14, 2011, 10-11 a.m.
Discover the site of the first iron furnace in the New World and explore the latest archaeological discoveries along the banks of Falling Creek. Take a tour of the site and learn about the impact of the industrial achievements. Pre registration required. To register call 804-748-1623 and request Course# 21895. Bensley Park, 2900 Drewry's Bluff Road. Details: Bryan Truzzie, 804-751-4946.Saturday, May 14,10-11 a.m. The fee is $8 per person.

Castlewood Historic Paranormal Tour
Saturday, May 14, 2011, 8-9 p.m
Join Spirited History, a team of paranormal investigators as they explore the haunted activity of this site. During the tour you will hear spine tingling tales and fascinating history. Bring your cameras and recorders and dare to find out if you have a ghostly experience. Pre registration required. To register, visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com. Castlewood, 10201 Iron Bridge Road. Saturday, May 14, 8-9 p.m. $10/person. Ages 8-Adult.

"An Evening Under the Stars" with the Richmond Symphony at Henricus Historical Park
Saturday, May 14, 2011

Join Henricus Historical Park in commemorating its 400th anniversary with a performance by the Richmond Symphony, conducted by Music Director Steven Smith. A concert will take place at Henricus Historical Park on a bluff overlooking the James River and Dutch Gap Conservation Area on May 14. Visitors are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket for limited open-lawn seating or become a Henricus Foundation Patron for reserved seating options. General admission is free and parking is $5 per vehicle. 7:30-8:45 p.m. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Midlothian Mines Park Tour
Saturday, May 28, 2011

Take a guided stroll through the park and learn more about the pioneer coal industry in Midlothian, one of the first commercial coal mine operations in North America. Learn about the first railroad, the need for transportation improvements and the impact that coal mining had on the region. Midlothian Mines Park 13301 North Woolridge Road The fee is $8/person. To register call 804-748-1623 and request Course #21889

1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign Sesquicentennial Van Tour
Saturday, June 11, 2011, 10a.m.-2p.m.

Commemorate the Civil War Sesquicentennial by visiting battle sites that played a major role in the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. Learn about the only campaign fought entirely within the confines of one county and why this campaign was overshadowed by military engagements elsewhere. Tour includes visit to Dutch Gap, Battery Dantzler, Point of Rocks and Drewry's Bluff. Transportation provided from Henricus. Space is limited. Wear comfortable shoes. Henricus Historical Park, 301 Henricus Park Road, Chesterfield, VA 23836 Register online with Paypal www.chesterfieldhistory.com.

Civil War on the James Tour
June 18, noon-2 p.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m.

1
Experience the Civil War from a new perspective - the river. The Civil War on the James Tour traces the naval actions that took place in the area of Dutch Gap and Jones Neck from 1862-1865, amidst the natural beauty of the James River, which has changed little in the past 150 years. Cruise aboard the Discovery Barge II, a 24-foot, covered pontoon boat piloted by Capt. Mike Ostrander. Listen to Civil War historian Scott Williams tell stories about Confederate torpedoes, the construction of the Dutch Gap Canal, the Bermuda Hundred Campaign, and the James River Squadron's desperate attempt to break out at Trent's Reach. Tours cost $40 per person and will be offered March 21 and 22 and June 18, noon-2 p.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m. The tours depart from Deep Bottom Boat Landing. Contact Ostrander at 804-938-2350 to book a tour or for more information. For directions, visit discoverthejames.com.

Civil War exhibit at the Chesterfield County Museum
April 2- June, 2011
The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia, in partnership with Parks and Recreation will open a new temporary Civil War exhibit at the Chesterfield County Museum, entitled "Fear and Freedom at my Door:Four Stories of the Civil War in Chesterfield." The exhibit will run through the beginning of June. Admission is $2. Museum hours are Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Also, the Historical Society's library at Castlewood has a database of 6,232 Chesterfield County veterans who served in every conflict from the French and Indian Wars(1754-1763) through the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Library hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 804-796-7121 for more information.

Tobacco - First Successful Commercial Export
July 23-24, 2011
Learn about early colonial tobacco in the area and John Rolfe, who introduced Spanish tobacco to mainland America. Explore the lives of indentured servants and the arrival of Africans in the "New World" who worked the tobacco fields. Discover how agriculture and trade affected the economics, politics and everyday lives of 17th-century Virginians. $8 for adults and $6 for children 3-12. 10am-5pm. 251 Henricus Park Rd., Chester, VA 23836, www.henricus.org, henricus1611@aol.com, 804-748-1613.

Butler's Offensive at Point of Rock Tour
August 6, 2011

Commemorate the Civil War's 150th anniversary by taking a walking tour this Saturday, Aug. 6, 10 a.m.-noon, at Point of Rocks Park and learning about the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. Discover the history surrounding the military strategy of Gen. Benjamin Butler's offensive in May 1864. Learn about Butler's headquarters, the Union hospital where Clara Barton served and the imposing signal tower that became the eyes for the Army of the James. View Union fortifications and learn why this location played a major role in the Bermuda Hundred Campaign. The cost is $8 per person and preregistration is required. To register, visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com. Tour participants will meet Point of Rocks Park, 201 Enon Church Road, at the trail head below the main parking lot, next to the playground. For more information, call Bryan Truzzie at 804-751-4946.


 

This site is sponsored by Chesterfield Heritage Alliance.
For more information, call the Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation at (804) 748-1623

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