Footsteps of the Revolutionary War: 245th Victory Weekend in Yorktown Virginia

Written by Adele Lassiter aka ‘The American Nomad Traveler…’ This is my deep dive into a fun Revolutionary War weekend discovering the history and legacy of Yorktown and the environs from meeting historical figures like Alexander Hamilton to the Marquis de Lafayette to walking the battlefield where American Independence was won…Huzzah for Yorktown Victory Weekend 2026 (245th Anniversary of the Surrender of Yorktown – October 19, 1781)…

• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily history, travel, #destinationcoffee and more…

In this edition of American Nomad Traveler, I’m inviting you along as I reflect on my recent Revolutionary Road Trip with a time-traveling adventure to Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Yorktown for Victory Weekend, celebrating the 245th anniversary of the Surrender of Yorktown (October 19th, 1781) that helped secure American independence from Great Britain.

The area affectionately dubbed the “Historic Triangle”—Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown—is a region I love to visit time and again, each time uncovering another fascinating layer of history. From its Native American roots and the birth of America’s first permanent English colony at Jamestown (where my ancestors once lived), to experiencing 18th-century life and Revolutionary War history at Colonial Williamsburg, to the world turned upside down with the Franco-American victory at Yorktown on October 19th, 1781… there is something for every traveler here. Whether you are a history buff like me or just getting into history, you’ll fall for the heritage of this region. In addition to the centuries of history rooted here, this area is also a hub for good food, cool local shops, entertainment (Busch Gardens), and natural beauty.

While it is fun to visit the Historic Triangle any time of the year, for Revolutionary War history, the chance to walk in the footsteps of patriots on the very ground where liberty was won on the anniversary of the surrender at Yorktown tugs at the soul in a special way. You feel the pull of history and can reflect on the magnitude of what many consider the “miracle” of the victory of the Franco-American alliance at Yorktown. The victory was a culmination of strategic decisions, battles, and sacrifices on both sides that led to this moment… a moment that would change the course of history forever.

Even though that climactic juxtaposition of history occurred over 245 years ago, when you visit Yorktown and its environs, there is something about the land, seeing structures that witnessed history, or standing on Surrender Field where the victory was finalized—it pulls you through a time-traveling portal, igniting a spark of liberty across generations and a curiosity to learn more about the history that happened here. Suddenly, Victory at Yorktown isn’t just a date in a history book, but a real place where real people put their lives on the line for the hope of liberty. The same goes for the stories of those on the British side as well—what motivated Loyalists who felt their best chance of liberty lay with the status quo? Suddenly, these facts aren’t just ink on paper, but a tangible story you can walk into and become part of the drama of the past.

I joke that Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown are like Disney World for history buffs. What I mean by that isn’t that it’s touristy or kitschy, but rather a way to emphasize that this is a place where history lives. There are few other places where, on any given day, you can stroll through town or visit a historic site and be greeted by expert living historians—able to meet the Marquis de Lafayette, have a conversation with Alexander Hamilton, or, perhaps even more interesting, connect with those whose names aren’t as well known: the men, women, and enslaved people who worked in their own ways to help support the cause of liberty and the hope of forging a better tomorrow. You can hear their stories and visit the places where they lived, worked, and fought right here.

Throughout the year, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown both host Revolutionary War living history events where you can interact with living historians who bring the drama of the past to life.

This was my first time visiting Yorktown and Colonial Williamsburg on the anniversary of the Battle of Yorktown during what is called “Victory Weekend.” Yorktown Day has been a time-honored celebration in Yorktown for generations, and with the buzz around America 250 this year, it drew a large crowd. Yet, my hope is that our hunger for history and for visiting our nation’s Revolutionary War sites won’t disappear just because America 250 seems like a thing of the past. For one, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration was just the start… it would take five more years before Yorktown made independence a reality and another two before the Treaty of Paris was signed.

Yorktown is a memory that needs to remain active in our hearts to draw us not just into history, but into the living hope of pursuing our own roles as citizens as we cross into the next 250 years of America.

In this post, I’ll dive into my adventures during Victory Weekend, including:

• A visit to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
• Meeting Alexander Hamilton and hearing about his service at Yorktown
• Revolutionary fun with Hamilton the musical at the Yorktown Victory Monument
• A history walk in Colonial Williamsburg and a look at its role in the days leading up to, during, and in the aftermath of the Battle of Yorktown
• American Friends of Lafayette Revolutionary fun:
  • Conversation with the Marquis de Lafayette
  • Gloucester Point
  • Dedication of the French Memorial on Yorktown Riverfront (behind Freight Shed) commemorating 3,520 French sailors and soldiers who fought and died at sea during the American Revolutionary War and have no graves.
  • AFL’s World Famous Cocktail Party

Because I packed so much time traveling history from Saturday October 17-Monday October 19th 2026, I’ll be sharing more in-depth snippets from hidden history I discovered during my visit (I always learn something new no matter how many times I visit). You can also follow along for my ‘daily history’ (and Revolutionary Coffee #destinationcoffee posts) on socials like facebook and Instagram as well.

Quick Tips for Planning your Time Traveling Adventure: The Historic Triangle has tons of amazing places to stay depending on your goals and budget.  I’m always pleasantly surprised how affordable rates are in the greater Williamsburg area, even in peak seasons.  We even used it as a base for day trips to Virginia Beach and also Historic Smithfield one time.  This is truly a history lovers and adventurers playground.

For this adventure, I arrived at my hotel in Williamsburg on Friday night around nine o’clock. I had points with Hilton so opted for Hampton Inn on Capital Landing, where I’ve stayed before.  It’s a great hotel and convenient to downtown Williamsburg’s Merchant’s Square and also Colonial Williamsburg, as well as a twenty minute drive to Yorktown and other awesome regional sites like Historic Jamestown (both historic site and adjacent Living History site and museum, I’ll share a post on this in the coming weeks).

Other hotels/inns I have enjoyed in the past:

Williamsburg:

Colonial Williamsburg Resort Hotels – I like the Woodlands as it is family friendly and provides a shuttle to and from Colonial Williamsburg.  I recommend calling for the best rates and if they have bundles with Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Triangle ticket pricing too.

Fife and Drum is a cozy bed and breakfast in the heart of bustling Merchant’s Square in the heart of downtown Williamsburg.  Wake up and literally walk downstairs into history…

Rochambeau Roadside Inn: A cool new boutique hotel with twenty-four thoughtfully curated rooms in a convenient location not far from the heart of Williamsburg. Check out their website here. This is a hidden gem.

Hampton Inn (both locations are great on Richmond Road or Capital Landing Drive): I have stayed at Hampton Inn in Williamsburg (both locations) multiple times and enjoy the convenience, 24/7 coffee/tea and cozy and affordable rooms.

Yorktown:

• Yorktown Cottages: Highly recommend, especially if you have friends and family tagging along. Nice owners and convenient to downtown.
• Historic House Hornsby Inn: This is a beautiful inn dating to the 20th century but exudes the 18th century character and Revolutionary Spirit of Yorktown.
• Yorktown Beach Hotel – perfect all year, but especially in the summer with easy access to the York River Beach!

Want more tips on planning your vacation here are the official tourism websites with helpful information.

• Visit Yorktown
• Visit Williamsburg

Saturday: October 17th

Saturday morning kicked off with a heavy, steady rain that felt remarkably fitting, given that it was a stormy night and early morning on October 16th–17th, 245 years ago, that served as the final nail in the coffin for Cornwallis’s hopes of escaping surrender at Yorktown.

During those harrowing hours on the evening of October 16th into the early morning of October 17th, Cornwallis—realizing he was running out of options during the Siege of Yorktown—decided to attempt a midnight escape across the narrow neck of the York River to Gloucester Point, where he had troops stationed under Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton. However, the weather had no intention of cooperating with his last-ditch escape plan, as heavy rains and sudden squalls prevented the boats from crossing.

Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton (“Bloody Ban,” who had blazed a trail of infamy in the Carolinas from the Waxhaws to Guilford Courthouse, and now in Virginia), reflecting on the catastrophic storm, wrote:

“At this critical moment, the weather, from being calm and moderate, became rainy and tempestuous. The boats with the troops were blown down the river… Thus expired the last hope of the British army.”

Later on October 17th, with no meaningful hope of escape or reinforcement, Cornwallis ordered a British officer onto a parapet, accompanied by a drummer beating a “parley” for a ceasefire. Cornwallis then sent a message across the lines to General George Washington and the Franco-American forces:

“Sir, I propose a cessation of hostilities for twenty-four hours, and that two officers may be appointed by each side, to meet at Mr. Moore’s house, to settle terms for the surrender of the posts at York and Gloucester.”

We’ll dig into more of the history of the Siege of Yorktown during the day’s adventures, including a visit to one of my favorite places in Yorktown—the Moore House!

Revolutionary Reading:

With the heavy rain, I spent a few hours at the hotel, sipping coffee while rereading one of my favorite books about the road to Yorktown—1781: The Decisive Year of the Revolutionary War by Robert Tonsetic. It details the history of the events leading up to Yorktown, starting from the darkest days for Washington: the January 1781 mutiny at Morristown, where about 1,500 soldiers from 11 Pennsylvania regiments rebelled and abandoned their winter camp due to severe underfunding, lack of pay, food, and basic supplies.

The crisis was negotiated and resolved by mid-January. The narrative then shifts to the Southern Campaign: from the victory at Cowpens (where Daniel Morgan decisively defeated Tarleton) to Nathanael Greene’s “Race to the Dan” outmaneuvering Cornwallis (crossing into Virginia on February 14, 1781), and on to the pyrrhic British victory at Guilford Courthouse. Though Cornwallis held the ground at Guilford, he lost over 25 percent of his troops to death and injury, forcing him to retreat first to Wilmington, NC, before marching north into Virginia.

In January 1781, the surrender of Cornwallis’s troops a mere ten months later would have appeared to be an impossible dream. Yet the grit and determination of Patriots from across the states helped build a bridge to ultimate victory on October 19, 1781, at Yorktown.

After finishing the last chapters of Tonsetic’s book, I hit the Revolutionary highway from Williamsburg to Yorktown, following in the footsteps of Washington, Rochambeau, Lafayette, and countless others…

Pro-Tip: Yorktown can be explored via a Battlefield Driving Tour, Trolley Tour and stops at the Yorktown National Battlefield Visitor Center – even on a rainy day Yorktown is perfect for revolutionary adventures.

Traveling Through Time at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown:

Around 12:30 p.m., I arrived at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. This is one of my favorite museums to revisit time and again. It features exceptional permanent exhibits showcasing a wealth of Revolutionary War artifacts, as well as world-class special exhibitions. When I last visited in March, I had the chance to see original costumes used in the popular historical fantasy show Outlander.

• Pro Tip: Get your tickets in advance online here: https://www.jyfmuseums.org/home

Today, I was eager to revisit the museum’s permanent collection and tour its special exhibit: Give Me Liberty.

Give Me Liberty: Virginia and the Forging of a Nation is a signature commemorative exhibition celebrating Virginia’s leading role in the Revolutionary War and in forging a new American nation rooted in the ideals of liberty. The exhibit introduces you to Virginia’s Revolutionary history in an interactive way that invites you directly into the story, encouraging visitors of all ages to explore our nation’s origins, engage with civic history, and learn about the legacy of Virginia’s founders. The best part was watching kids and adults alike get excited about the people of the past and how their stories can inspire better citizenship today.

The exhibition does a phenomenal job engaging both casual visitors—who might recognize names like Patrick Henry and George Washington and know we won at Yorktown, but lack the deeper context, and self-professed history geeks like myself. I completely nerded out over the paper file held by Patrick Henry when he delivered his famous “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech on March 23rd, 1775, at St. John’s Church (then Henrico Parish) in Richmond.

The exhibit takes you on a true journey through liberty, offering snapshots of historic Virginian sites and clearly explaining the “who,” “what,” “where,” and “why” behind the outbreak of the war.

You even get the chance to serve as a delegate to the Second Virginia Convention at St. John’s Church in Richmond. Without leaving the museum, you are transported to March 23rd, 1775, as Patrick Henry delivers his bold cry for freedom, alongside the dynamic reactions of his fellow delegates as they listen. Suddenly, the speech becomes far more than a famous phrase in the American lexicon, you understand the deep frustration over taxation without representation, the outrage following the closure of Boston’s port under the Boston Port Act (part of the Coercive Acts of 1774), and the weight of the decision facing those delegates on the eve of revolution.

• You can visit St. John’s Church in Richmond easily from Yorktown and Williamsburg (about an hour west. The reenactments are amazing live: https://www.historicstjohnschurch.org/home

I felt the fires of liberty flare in my heart when I overheard a fourth grader rush over to an interactive video of Patrick Henry and exclaim joyfully to his parents: “Mom, Dad… that’s Patrick Henry!” They asked if he was sure, and he stood his ground: “Absolutely! He’s the Virginian who gave the ‘Liberty or Death’ speech… a true patriot and hero.” So often, people struggle to connect with history because it feels like dry dates on a page. But to this kid and his family, history was suddenly a living, human story—one they could connect with today.

While in the 21st century we all like to think we would have been Patriots, the exhibit also does a wonderful job presenting Loyalist perspectives. It even invites you to guess whether historical figures were Patriots or Loyalists before revealing their reasons for choosing sides. You learn that even prominent families were deeply divided: Peyton Randolph, the respected Patriot and President of the Continental Congress until his death in October 1775, had a divided household when his brother, John Randolph, chose to remain loyal to the Crown and relocated to England.

The exhibit also featured stories highlighting the impact of women and African Americans both enslaved men fighting for their own freedom in exchange for service in the Continental Army and those who joined the British under Lord Dunmore’s Proclamation. You learn about men like William “Billy” Flora, a hero at the Battle of Great Bridge, as well as Lafayette’s secret weapon and master spy, James Armistead Fayette.

I love that this exhibit puts diverse people and their voices at the center of history and showcases their role in the building of a new nation.

When studying history, having a visual timeline helps connect the threads of historical events to see the big picture and understand how seemingly small events impacted the broader story. The interactive exhibits made it easy to get pulled into the narrative and grasp the key events and figures on the Road to Revolution.

Highlights Included:

1763–1774: Seeds of Revolution While the first shots of the American Revolution were not fired until April 19th, 1775, at the Battle of Lexington and Concord (first on Lexington Green), digging into Revolutionary War history reveals that the roots of conflict sprouted in the aftermath of the French and Indian War in 1763. The events stretching from Lexington and Concord to the surrender at Yorktown were seeds planted in the 1760s that grew into deeply tangled roots of frustration by the outbreak of the war.

• French and Indian War (1754–1763): Known as the Seven Years’ War in Europe, this was a bloody conflict in North America for control of colonial territories—especially in the Ohio River Valley—pitting Great Britain, her North American colonies, and Native American allies against the French and their Native American allies. The British won the war, emerging as an undisputed superpower and taking control of French Canada and territories east of the Mississippi River. Florida and Louisiana were ceded to Britain’s and France’s respective allies (Spain receiving Louisiana as compensation for its losses, while Britain acquired Florida).
  It was a devastating loss for France, but despite their victory and bragging rights, Great Britain was left heavily in debt. In an effort to pay down this war debt, Parliament turned to the colonies—first with an indirect tax on sugar (the Sugar Act of 1764). However, it was the Stamp Act of 1765 that truly ignited the fires of revolution. This marked the first time American colonists were directly taxed by Parliament; making matters worse, the tax had to be paid in hard specie (gold or silver coin), which was in extremely short supply in the colonies. Protests erupted from Boston to Williamsburg to the Cape Fear region of North Carolina, accompanied by rallying cries of “No taxation without representation!”
• Patrick Henry’s Stamp Act Resolves: One of the boldest cries against the Stamp Act came from Virginia’s Patrick Henry: “…If this be treason, make the most of it!”

The exhibit walks you through the impacts of each successive attempt to tax the colonists…from the Stamp Act to the Townshend Acts and the Tea Act and shows how individuals across all backgrounds grew increasingly frustrated. You are invited to stand in their shoes and ask: How would you respond?

In addition to frustration over taxes and the infringement of rights, colonists, especially in Virginia were angered by restrictions on westward expansion into the Ohio River Valley. As the population grew, many saw moving into the fertile lands west of the Appalachian Mountains as their best chance for a better life. Conversely, Native American nations like the Cherokee and Shawnee felt directly threatened by this encroachment. Dragging Canoe, a prominent Cherokee leader, would become a staunch ally of King George III, whose Royal Proclamation of 1763 established a boundary line intended to protect Native American lands. This exhibit does a phenomenal job sharing the diverse perspectives of Native Americans, colonists, and the Royal Government under Lord Dunmore, illustrating the struggles on the frontier and their critical role in the Revolutionary War.

John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore (aka Lord Dunmore), served as the final Royal Governor of Virginia. He remains a complex and controversial figure who became the bane of Patriot leaders. While I once “met” Lord Dunmore during a living history event where he dismissed many of the Patriot claims against him, his actual actions, from dissolving the House of Burgesses to issuing his famous Proclamation on November 7th, 1775, declaring martial law and offering freedom to enslaved workers and indentured servants who joined the Royal forces…were explosive. (Andrew Lawler has written a fantastic book covering Dunmore’s Proclamation that I highly recommend reading! A Perfect Frenzy by Andrew Lawler).

Following the destruction of the tea (the Boston Tea Party) on December 16th, 1773, Parliament retaliated by enacting the Coercive Acts (taking effect June 1st, 1774)—dubbed the “Intolerable Acts” by colonists from New England to Virginia and the Carolinas. While some tried to brush off the conflict as Boston’s isolated problem, leading members of Virginia’s House of Burgesses, including Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and Richard Henry Lee—were incensed, recognizing that the plight of Boston was the plight of all colonies.

During the May 24th, 1774 meeting of the House of Burgesses in Williamsburg, the delegates passed a resolution designating June 1st as a Day of Fasting, Humiliation, and Prayer in solidarity with the citizens of Boston. Lord Dunmore was infuriated. While prayer and fasting sounded harmless, he recognized it as a deliberate protest against Parliamentary authority and his own rule as governor. Without throwing Dunmore completely under the bus, things in Virginia might not have escalated so rapidly had he used a little diplomacy and permitted the day of fasting without going on the attack—but Dunmore was not one to play peacemaker.

On May 25th, Dunmore called a secret meeting with the Governor’s Council to ask if he should dissolve the Burgesses. According to council member Landon Carter, not a single member spoke up. Dunmore took their silence as tacit approval to dissolve the Assembly. The Burgesses still had crucial routine business to finalize (everyday administrative work that impacted ordinary Virginians). Needless to say, they were shocked when he officially dissolved the House of Burgesses on May 26th…and to top it off, Dunmore already had a formal party scheduled that very evening to which many of the Burgesses were invited. Talk about awkward!

While the dissolution of the Assembly was not unprecedented, the representatives were not about to take it lying down. They literally walked down the street to the Apollo Room at the Raleigh Tavern in the heart of Williamsburg and continued business as usual. The delegates initiated a series of extralegal (not sanctioned by the Crown) meetings known as the Virginia Conventions, where they passed state legislation and elected representatives to the Continental Congresses. The exhibit breaks down the high drama of each convention along the road to independence:

The Virginia Conventions:

1. 1st Virginia Convention (August 1–6, 1774, Williamsburg): Delegates elected representatives to the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia to coordinate a unified colonial response. They also adopted the Virginia Association boycott against British goods.
2. 2nd Virginia Convention (March 20–27, 1775, Richmond): You can immerse yourself in this historic convention right in the exhibit, traveling back to March 23rd, 1775, for Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech, which secured the passage of a resolution to arm and prepare a defensive state militia.
3. 3rd Virginia Convention (July 17–August 26, 1775, Richmond): Meeting at St. John’s Church (then Henrico Parish), the convention created the Virginia Committee of Safety to act as the executive government and authorized a regular military force of two regiments alongside minutemen battalions.
4. 4th Virginia Convention (December 1, 1775–January 20, 1776, Richmond & Williamsburg): This convention spanned the crucial Patriot victory at the Battle of Great Bridge and the tumultuous aftermath of the burning of Norfolk.
5. 5th Virginia Convention (May 6–July 5, 1776, Williamsburg):
   • On May 15th, delegates voted unanimously to instruct Virginia’s congressional delegates in Philadelphia to propose full independence to the Continental Congress.
   • Adopted George Mason’s Virginia Declaration of Rights on June 12th, which profoundly influenced the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.
   • Adopted Virginia’s first written constitution on June 29th and elected Patrick Henry as the state’s first governor, officially concluding the era of royal governance.

Voices in the Founding of a New Nation

The exhibit displays numerous priceless historical artifacts, including a rare 1833 Stone engraving printing of the Declaration of Independence in the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation collection, a sword owned by George Washington, Patrick Henry’s spectacles, and the letter opener he held during his “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech.

After spending over an hour in the Give Me Liberty exhibit, I had worked up quite an appetite. Luckily, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown features an amazing on-site eatery: The 1781 Café (operated by the popular local Williamsburg spot, Aromas Coffeehouse). This cafe offers sandwiches, salads, smoothies, delicious coffee, and snacks. I opted for a Pumpkin Spice Latte and a Mango Smoothie, which refueled me for a few more hours of museum exploration!

After finishing my coffee and smoothie, I spent time meandering through the museum’s permanent collection. What I love about the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is that it serves as ground zero for understanding every facet of the American Revolution—not just the Siege of Yorktown. The museum brings the entire story to life: from the Stamp Act Crisis, the Boston Massacre, and the Boston Tea Party, to Patrick Henry in Richmond, the opening shots at Lexington and Concord, the Northern and Southern campaigns, the surrender of Cornwallis, and the ultimate end of the war with the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

It is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to the Historic Triangle and the ideal place to begin your Yorktown adventure, as it builds a comprehensive foundation before you head over to the National Park Service Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center to dive into the siege itself.

Even though I’ve visited the permanent collection many times, I discover something new every single visit. One of my favorite artifacts on display is a slant-front desk once owned by South Carolina’s famous “Swamp Fox,” Francis Marion. (Several of my own ancestors served under Marion in South Carolina!).

P.S. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown’s sister site is Historic Jamestowne / Jamestown Settlement, and you can purchase a combination ticket to explore both incredible history museums during your trip! Plan your visit here

A History Lover’s Paradise & Gift Shop

I always enjoy visiting the American Revolution Museum’s gift shop. Like most folks, I’m on a budget (though it takes all the grace of the Holy Spirit to keep me restrained whenever I enter a bookstore!), which is what makes this shop so wonderful. They offer a wide variety of history-themed gifts and exceptional books at very reasonable prices. The staff is super friendly and helpful when you’re searching for that perfect souvenir without breaking the bank (or your bookshelf!).

Portal to the Past:

At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, you have the opportunity not just to learn about Revolutionary War history—you get to travel back in time and live it. The museum features an 18th-century living history farm where you can experience daily life on a Virginia homestead during the Revolutionary War, meet Chief Feline Historian Rochambeau (the cat), and walk through a recreated Continental Army encampment where you can observe militia drills and learn about camp life, 18th-century medicine, and more.

Fortunately, by 3:00 p.m. the rain had begun to ease up, allowing me to step back through time into the 18th century. When I arrived at the camp, several young boys were being recruited into the Continental Army, practicing drills, and learning the ropes of soldiering. I also had the chance to speak with the camp surgeon about common illnesses that plagued the Continental Army, such as dysentery and smallpox, and how General George Washington famously ordered the mass inoculation of his troops against smallpox.

In honor of Victory Weekend at Yorktown, the museum hosted a special Revolutionary guest: none other than Alexander Hamilton himself!

Luke Nathan Phillips is a historian who brings Alexander Hamilton to life without breaking character for a single moment. These interpreters are not simply actors playing a role; they are dedicated historians who spend countless hours studying the life and legacy of the figures they portray. Interacting with a living historian allows you to experience the past in a remarkably tangible way. During his presentation, Hamilton shared stories of his service as an aide-de-camp to Washington and his crucial role in securing victory at Yorktown.

I found Hamilton hard at work preparing for his role in the Siege of Yorktown inside the secretary’s office tent in the Continental camp. Nearly a dozen of us squeezed into the tent, leaning in to catch every word as Lt. Colonel Alexander Hamilton shared his life story—from growing up in Nevis and being orphaned at a young age, to immigrating to America, to his relentless drive for education, self-improvement, and service to the cause of liberty. It was fascinating listening to Hamilton discuss his decision to lay everything on the line for the Patriot cause, his relationship with Washington, and his friendships with the Marquis de Lafayette and artillery wizard Henry Knox.

Both children and adults hung on his every word as he brought history to life, detailing his pivotal role in the American Revolution and the decisive Siege of Yorktown that ultimately secured independence. Hamilton also reflected warmly on his admiration for Washington, Knox, and Lafayette:

“I was honored to serve under His Excellency, General Washington, as an aide-de-camp on his staff—an important role I accepted on March 1, 1777, at twenty years old. I had previously served as a captain of an artillery company, distinguishing myself during the New York and Trenton campaigns. I have to admit, when Washington initially invited me to serve in a secretarial and advisory capacity rather than in combat, I balked. I longed for field command. However, General Washington in his wisdom recognized the vital importance of a strong staff—not just on the battlefield, but in drafting orders, managing correspondence, and relaying strategy. Some have said I was the ‘pen of our army,’ but I am deeply grateful that at Yorktown I finally got my chance to lead a combat command in the storming of Redoubt 10 alongside my friend, the Marquis de Lafayette.”

Hamilton explained that while Washington and Lafayette had initially assigned another officer, Jean-Joseph Sourbader de Gimat, to lead the assault battalion, Hamilton was determined not to throw away his “shot.” He appealed directly to Washington, arguing that as a senior officer on staff he held seniority, and urged Washington to grant him field command. Washington, trusting his longtime aide, ultimately relented. Hamilton laid down his pen and took up the bayonet.

Hamilton approached his staff assignment with trademark energy and talent. A gifted writer, he was soon drafting dispatches to the Continental Congress and orders to top generals. He was also frequently in the saddle for long hours, riding alongside Washington in battle or carrying urgent dispatches across distant lines. Over time, Hamilton anticipated Washington’s needs so well that he spoke for the commander-in-chief in ways no other aide could match. As one observer famously remarked, “The pen for our army was held by Hamilton,” while Washington himself referred to him as his “principal and most confidential aide.”

This staff position gave Hamilton a broad perspective he would never have gained as an artillery captain. He saw firsthand the complex intersection of politics, finance, and military operations, fostering a holistic view of the war. Increasingly, Hamilton recognized the necessity of a professional standing army and lamented the shortfalls of reliant state militias.

Turning back to the tactical situation at Yorktown, Hamilton recalled the dramatic countdown to the assault:

“We began marching from Williamsburg on September 28th toward Yorktown… Cornwallis surprisingly decided to withdraw his troops from the outer defensive lines on the evening of September 29th, a tactical move historians still debate today. We realized that if we could capture Redoubts 9 and 10, we would gain a direct line of fire into the heart of Cornwallis’s defenses. To pull this off, absolute secrecy was required. A single misfire or misplaced footstep could alert the British and ruin the assault before it began. Under cover of darkness on the night of October 14th, 1781, combined American and French forces launched a twin-pronged assault on the redoubts anchoring the British flank along the York River. To preserve complete surprise, all soldiers were ordered to unload their muskets…”

“How can you fight without a loaded musket? Doesn’t that sound like a suicide mission?” a teenager in the audience asked.

“We relied on the element of surprise and swift action with the bayonet—a deadly weapon in close-quarters combat. It was some of the bloodiest, most intense hand-to-hand fighting of the siege. We took Redoubt 10 in less than ten minutes, while 400 French troops from the Gâtinais and Royal Deux-Ponts regiments, commanded by Baron de Viomenil, successfully carried Redoubt 9 in about thirty minutes. It was a decisive triumph for the Franco-American alliance, tightening the siege lines around Lord Cornwallis’s army.”

“I know Redoubts 9 and 10!” a young boy in a tricorn hat chimed in. “That’s in the song in the movie Hamilton!”

“I have heard there is a musical drama about my life, which I look forward to seeing at the Victory Monument tonight!” Hamilton replied with a smile. “While I enjoy a spirited production, I like to think the real history of my life is far more fascinating than theatrical fiction. Still, I encourage you all to enjoy the show!”

While I could have listened to Lt. Colonel Hamilton recount historical adventures all afternoon, I had more time-traveling stops to make!

Grounded in History:

By 4:00 p.m., the rain had finally cleared, and the crisp autumn air called for a fleece jacket. After parking near the waterfront, I grabbed my camera and spent the next hour exploring historic Yorktown on foot. With every step, I marveled at standing on the exact ground where Lord Cornwallis was besieged and where Allied American and French forces marched victorious. Standing right in the “room where it happened” creates an undeniable sense of connection to the past; history comes alive, and you feel part of the ongoing American story.

In cities like Charlotte, NC, modern skyscrapers line the streets where Cornwallis once fought Patriot William R. Davie in September 1780, making it harder to visualize the 18th-century landscape. Yorktown, however, retains its historic character. Despite losing nearly 70% of its structures during the 1781 siege, enduring a devastating fire in 1814, and facing heavy bombardment during the Civil War, Yorktown still boasts several original “witness buildings.” Structures like the Nelson House still bear physical battle scars from the siege.

What makes Yorktown especially charming is that while some of these structures are preserved as National Park Service museum sites, others house local shops and eateries—a true crossroads of past and present. Enjoying a coffee inside a building that the Marquis de Lafayette once walked past or that British troops occupied during the siege makes history tangible. The creaky wooden floorboards beneath your feet act as a true portal to the past.

Two perfect spots to experience this connection are sister treat and coffee shops: Little York Confectionery inside the historic Somerwell House (circa 1702) and Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters.

Little York Confectionery & The Somerwell House:

Visitors of all ages will love Little York Confectionery’s selection of chocolates, sweets, and Lafayette-approved ice cream. They also offer a full espresso menu using beans roasted by Mobjack.

History is a sweet treat at the Somerwell House. Many historians consider it one of the oldest extant residential structures in Yorktown, though its earliest origins carry a bit of mystery. According to the National Park Service, the house was built circa 1702 and named after Mungo Somerwell. Lot 36 was originally purchased in 1691 (the year Yorktown was founded) by William Digges, but sat vacant for several years before being acquired by Robert Leightonhouse, a schoolmaster turned tavern keeper. After his death, his widow inherited the property and married Mungo Somerwell, with whom she built the home.

While details about Mungo Somerwell’s life are sparse (what a great name, by the way!), historical records show he held a license to operate a ferry and worked as a merchant, innkeeper, and town constable prior to his death in 1707.

In 1716, the property was purchased by Philip Lightfoot, a wealthy tobacco exporter known as the “Merchant Prince” due to his vast commercial holdings. Local lore even claims Lightfoot once dared the devil to a dance-off on the James River—a bold move that feels like it deserves its own Virginia rendition of a Charlie Daniels song!

The Somerwell House sustained damage during the 1781 Siege of Yorktown, but survived as one of only nine downtown buildings to endure the bombardment. It also survived the great fire of 1814. Decades later during the Civil War, Union forces occupied Yorktown and utilized many surviving structures, including the Somerwell House.

Following the Civil War, the house was converted into Dawson’s Hotel (later known as the Old English Tavern and the Yorktown Hotel), serving as Yorktown’s primary hotel until the National Park Service acquired the property in the 1930s. It temporarily served as a dormitory for park staff during the reconstruction of the nearby Swan Tavern (1934–1936) and served as the administrative headquarters for Colonial National Historical Park for two decades.

Today, you can soak in the home’s history while enjoying a fresh espresso, gourmet candy, or local ice cream.

Spilling the Tea and Sipping Revolutionary Coffee at Mobjack:

Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters is famous for its “Revolutionary Coffee” and craft teas (now that the war is won, we can drink tea again!). They offer sandwiches and several gluten-free options. Mobjack roasts its beans on-site, offering custom blends like Rebellion to mark America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. I made sure to grab a few bags to fuel my historical blogging!

During my visit, I ordered a latte and one of their gluten-free oatmeal cookie sandwiches. The cream filling hit the spot on a crisp autumn afternoon.

Like Little York Confectionery, Mobjack operates inside one of Yorktown’s prized historic structures: the Cole Digges House (also known historically as the Thomas Pate House).

• Get your Revolutionary Coffee from Mobjack’s online

The Cole Digges House bears historic battle scars from the 1781 Siege of Yorktown. Along with the Somerwell House, it stands as one of the few surviving buildings (roughly nine total) to have weathered the Revolutionary War, the Fire of 1814, and the Civil War.

While it could easily serve solely as a preserved museum, it is wonderful that the National Park Service allows it to function as a bustling coffee shop where history enthusiasts can gather, recharge, and discuss Revolutionary War history right where it happened.

Mobjack Coffee aka Cole Digges House:

The Cole Digges House is a portal through time that is grounded in history and foundations that hold stories from the past and mysteries still waiting to be uncovered. Today, it is home to one of my favorite coffee shops ever, Mobjack’s, where you can sip on revolutionary coffee blends or “spill the tea” on Yorktown’s history alongside delicious treats, including gluten-free pastries, sandwiches, and salads…

While amazing coffee is revolutionary in its own right, what makes this spot a history lover’s dream is the fact that it is located in one of Yorktown’s oldest extant buildings…The Cole Digges House. It was not only a witness to the Siege of Yorktown, but also an active participant, suffering damage from the onslaught of artillery and gunfire from the Allied troops of the French and Americans, not to mention the British troop movements as they overtook the port city of Yorktown. As you wait in line for your coffee and feel the floor squeak under your feet, you can imagine for a moment the British troops who would have passed through the house and the terror of locals as Yorktown became the site of the last great battle of the American Revolution…

You can feel the spirit of history in the Cole Digges House, which exudes character and charm that I’m sure the Marquis de Lafayette and Washington would approve of.

In researching the story of the Cole Digges House, I learned that while Mobjack’s lists the building as circa 1726, the origin story is a bit of a mystery. It was actually called the Pate House until 2003, named after Thomas Pate, who for generations was believed to be the man who built the house. This goes back to the fact that records show Thomas Pate owned the land where Mobjack’s is located from 1699 to 1703. During that period in Yorktown’s history, the law required that to retain ownership of property, a dwelling must be built within four months after purchase. It was assumed that it was built circa 1700. Also, Pate’s will states that he gave “my House and Lott in York Town” to his caregiver in old age, Joanne Lawson, at lot #42, which is where the Cole Digges House stands.

Cole Digges purchased the property in 1713, and it appears a house was on the property, although records are sparse. So why is it listed as circa 1726? Modern science shows that the wood used in the rafters of the house was harvested around 1730. There is no record that the home was rebuilt, but over the years repairs were done, alongside extensions and remodeling, so this isn’t a foolproof way to date the house. One theory is that the nails (from the 1800s) and wood were repurposed for structural work, perhaps after the 1814 fire damaged nearby structures, but there is no conclusive proof either way.

What we do know is that Thomas Pate did originally own the plot of land, probably had a house here, and Cole Digges purchased the lot (and probably the foundations of the current home) and lived here. We also know that it is one of only nine structures remaining as witnesses to the American Revolution in Yorktown and its centuries of history.

Today, you can sit with this home’s history while sipping on your favorite beverage (coffee, tea, wine, lemonade…)… if you listen, perhaps the Cole Digges House will share its stories from nearly 300 years of history!

Grace Church – Crossroads of Community and Where Patriots Rest…

One of my favorite spots to visit in Yorktown is historic Grace Episcopal Church and its churchyard. This church is one of the oldest in Virginia (circa 1697) and is the final resting place of one of my favorite Revolutionary Patriots, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence, and the Brigadier General at Yorktown who told Lafayette to fire on his own home: Thomas Nelson Jr.

I took twenty minutes to sit in the churchyard and say prayers for those who came before, for their families today, and in the hope that the spirit of Yorktown is always remembered.

I always find comfort stopping at Grace Church when I visit Yorktown. I enjoy spending a few moments in the churchyard burial ground, taking a moment to pay my respects to those who came before with a prayer—especially one of my favorite Signers of the Declaration of Independence and Yorktown’s hometown Patriot, Thomas Nelson Jr., who is buried along with six generations of his family in the churchyard. His ancestor, “Scotch Tom,” was one of the early settlers in Yorktown… I’ll be sharing a post on Thomas Nelson Jr. soon—stay tuned for the ‘rest of the story…’

Time Traveling through History at Grace Episcopal Church:

Grace Church was originally founded as part of York-Hampton Parish in 1634! To put that in perspective, the first English settlers down the road in Jamestown arrived in 1607! In researching this post, I discovered the original parish site was near Wormley Creek, which feeds into the York River. That site has a 1655 tombstone dating to the original parish; however, the location of that early church is now part of a U.S. Coast Guard Station!

Fun fact: The church continues to hold one of the oldest Communion services in continuous use by an Anglican-Episcopal parish in the United States; the silver communion service was originally donated to the church in 1649.

• Did you know as an active parish you can still attend services here? Check out their website for their service schedule: https://gracechurchyorktown.org/who-we-are/history/

In 1691, the Ports Act established the Town of York and provided a plot for Grace Church. It was built in 1697 and is unique among Colonial churches of the period because its foundation and walls were built of slabs of marl—ancient clay and shells cut from the nearby riverbank that harden into a stone-like material. Only fifty of the original 250 colonial churches built in Virginia remain, making Grace Church a true wonder.

During the Revolutionary War, Grace Church sadly was not spared from the wrath of the Siege of Yorktown. You would think that, as an Anglican (Episcopal) church, Cornwallis and company would have spared it as a house of the Lord; however, like many churches during the war, it was converted by the British for military purposes.

During the Siege of Yorktown, Cornwallis ordered the church to be used as a powder magazine, with all of the pews torn out and used for the war effort. According to historic records, this caused an estimated $32,000 in damage in modern currency.

Because the Anglican Church was technically the state church of England, many Anglican parishes struggled after the war as funding dried up, leaving some churches abandoned. Grace continued as an active parish, but Yorktown faced another tragedy when an accidental fire in 1814 burned much of the church interior. It stood as a ghost structure until 1848, when it was finally restored.

During the terrible days of the Civil War, when the fight for the survival of the United States came to the Peninsula and Yorktown, Grace Church was used by Union troops as a hospital, and its belfry served as a lookout post. Sadly, its historic bell was carried off during the war to Philadelphia. By a miracle in itself, fragments of the bell were later recovered, recast, and returned to service in 1889, a reminder that no matter how fractured things become, the light of hope works toward community and restoration.

The resiliency of Grace Church and its continued work to build a community for the faithful—as well as serving as a beacon in the broader community—is a testament that even in dark days, hope is never lost. It is a lesson we can trace from the Victory at Yorktown on October 19, 1781, straight to the present day.

Buried History:

A church is only a building, but it’s the people who help bring life into it. You can pay your respects to those who helped keep the church alive in past generations in the churchyard’s burial ground. Here is a brief look at a few of the souls buried here:

• The Nelson Family: Including Signer of the Declaration of Independence Thomas Nelson Jr. (keep scrolling for history about his life and home, located about a block from Grace Church).

• The Martiau Family: Several of the oldest graves in the churchyard were reinterred here in 1936 from the Martiau family plot on Buckner Street (I’m working on a Buried History blog post on this story—stay tuned!).

Nicolas Martiau was born in 1591 in France and was a Huguenot who emigrated to Virginia, receiving a land grant in what is now Yorktown in 1634. He died in 1657 and was originally buried along with family members on Buckner Street. Over the centuries, however, that burial ground was abandoned and paved over. In 1936, the National Park Service discovered eighteen skeletons, including Martiau’s; sixteen of his family members were then reinterred in Grace Churchyard.

The oldest graves in the churchyard are those from the Martiau cemetery, including Nicolas Martiau, his daughter Elizabeth, and his son-in-law George Read. Martiau was an ancestor of both George Washington and Thomas Nelson Jr. His daughter Elizabeth and her husband George are ancestors of George Washington, Thomas Nelson Jr., famed explorer Meriwether Lewis, and even Queen Elizabeth II!

After finishing up at Grace Church, I enjoyed meandering among the historic sites on Main Street, including the home of Patriot Thomas Nelson Jr.

This is a “Witness House” that not only stood by during the Siege of Yorktown, but was an active participant as cannonballs and shot struck the structure during the siege.

This witness to the Revolutionary War is one of the finest examples of early Georgian architecture in Virginia. (The Georgian style took its name from the four British kings named George who reigned from 1714 to 1830.) Georgian architecture was influenced by the symmetry of ancient Greece and Rome and was rooted in a simple, balanced style that gives an impression of order and stability. It was a very popular style throughout the Colonial era.

While many of Yorktown’s “witness” homes have been heavily modified over the years, the Nelson House is mostly original, including its marvelous brickwork, interior wooden floors, and wall panels. According to the National Park Service, the house’s bricks possibly were brought to Virginia aboard one of the Nelson merchant ships from the Severn River Valley in England.

The bricks above the windows, around the doors, and in select locations on the house feature a different, brighter color. These are called “rubbed” bricks, as the color was obtained by rubbing the bricks together to make them straighter and smoother. Such bricks were laid at corners, around openings, and along borders to achieve sharp, clean edges.

The Nelson House dates to circa 1730 and was built by “Scotch Tom” Nelson, the founder of the Nelson family in Yorktown. “Scotch Thomas” Nelson emigrated to Yorktown, Virginia, in 1705 from Penrith, Cumbria, in England (near the Scottish border, hence his nickname). In Yorktown, he became a prosperous and influential merchant in the bustling port city. By 1710, Tom was well established, having acquired several properties and married Margaret Read. They had three children: William (1711), Mary (1713), and Thomas (1716).

• William Nelson — Merchant and Statesman: Born in 1711, William inherited the family business, continuing to accumulate land and expand operations. William also became active in Virginia politics, serving for two decades on the Virginia Council of State (the Upper House of the Virginia General Assembly). Eight days after his father died in 1745, William was sworn in as a member of the Governor’s Council, joining eleven of the most distinguished men in the colony as an advisor to the Governor. Nelson served many years as President of the Council, earning the title “President Nelson.” After the death of Royal Governor Norborne Berkeley (Lord Botetourt), William Nelson served as acting governor of Virginia from mid-October 1770 until Lord Dunmore’s arrival in October 1771. William died in 1772 as tensions mounted in the years leading up to the Revolutionary War. William Nelson had been a staunch opponent of the Stamp Act (1765–1766) and wrote in a letter to a friend in London that colonists should cultivate and patronize local industry rather than depend upon the Mother Country for everything: “I now wear a good suit of Cloth of my Son’s Wool, manufactured as well as my shirts in Albemarle, my shoes, hose, buckles, wigg & hat, etc… of our own country and in these we improve every year in quantity as well as quality.”
• Secretary Thomas Nelson: Born in 1716, Thomas Nelson (uncle of the Signer) was educated in England, just like his brother. In 1743, at only twenty-seven years old, Thomas Nelson was appointed to the influential post of Deputy Secretary for the Colony of Virginia—a position he held for thirty-three years. During the Siege of Yorktown, his home served as the initial headquarters for Lord Cornwallis and was severely damaged during the fighting. Today, Secretary Nelson’s home is gone, but you can walk among its foundation stones and still feel echoes of the past when this was ground zero for Cornwallis’s military operations and a primary target for Patriot artillery.

• Mary Nelson: Born in 1713, Mary married Col. Edmund Berkeley and is buried in Grace Churchyard.

Get to Know Thomas Nelson Jr. — Herald of Liberty Who Gave His Fortune for the Cause

Signer of the Declaration of Independence and Yorktown’s favorite patriot son, Thomas Nelson Jr. was born in Yorktown, Virginia, to William and Elizabeth Burwell Nelson in 1738. He took the “Junior” moniker to distinguish himself from his uncle, Thomas Nelson, who also lived in Yorktown and whose home was used as headquarters for Cornwallis during the Siege of Yorktown.

Thomas’s family deeply valued education; he was tutored at home before being sent at age fifteen to England’s prestigious Eton School, later completing his studies at Christ’s College, Cambridge. He returned to Virginia at age twenty-three, ready to take over the family’s mercantile business. As the son of a prominent merchant and politician, Thomas Nelson Jr. was elected to the House of Burgesses while still aboard the ship carrying him back to Virginia from England. Talk about setting sail for a new career!

A year after his return, Nelson married Lucy Grymes, a cousin to several influential Virginian families including the Lees, Peyton Randolph, Carter Braxton, Benjamin Harrison, and Thomas Jefferson. They had eleven children and enjoyed a loving marriage.

Unfortunately, Thomas struggled throughout his life with severe asthma. Today, modern medicine helps asthma sufferers manage symptoms effectively, but treatments in Nelson’s day included steam baths, opium, and bloodletting—none of which offered real relief. Yet despite his physical struggles, Nelson never shied away from public service, especially when the fires of liberty burned within his soul.

Although William Nelson died several years before the Revolutionary War broke out, he had been vocal in his opposition to the Stamp Act (1765–1766) and subsequent taxes following the French and Indian War. Thomas Nelson Jr.’s heart burned with that same passion for liberty, and he supported the Patriot cause from the very beginning. Some found this surprising given his British education, but Thomas was firm, noting in a letter that there was no “greater absurdity” than Americans retaining “affection for a people who are carrying on the most savage war against us.”

When the sparks of revolution erupted in Virginia, Thomas Nelson Jr. was right in the center of the action. In 1774, when Royal Governor Lord Dunmore dissolved the House of Burgesses in retaliation for their support of Boston following the closure of its port under the Coercive (Intolerable) Acts, Nelson was among the Burgesses who defied Dunmore. They met anyway at Williamsburg’s Raleigh Tavern on May 27th, 1774, and later at the First Virginia Convention in Williamsburg in August 1774 (held right inside the Virginia Capitol—can you imagine how Lord Dunmore felt about these “rebels”?).

On November 7th, 1774, Nelson helped organize the Yorktown Tea Party. Nelson and other local men boarded the British merchant ship Virginia, which had arrived with a cargo of tea, and proceeded to dump it into the York River. Nelson and his fellow protesters proudly noted that they caused no damage to the vessel, its crew, or any other cargo. This event is reenacted every November at Yorktown’s Watermen’s Museum!

On March 23rd, 1775, Nelson was present when Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech during the Second Virginia Convention at St. John’s Church in Richmond (then Henrico Parish). I had the chance to see Nelson “in action” as he stood in support of Henry during a time-traveling reenactment at St. John’s—a must-attend event for any history buff! It was amazing to “meet” Nelson and hear members of the Second Virginia Convention debate matters of liberty.

Nelson was chosen as a Virginia delegate to the Continental Congress and possessed a fiery commitment to independence, frequently calling to sever ties with Great Britain. He traveled to Williamsburg for the Fifth Virginia Convention in May 1776, where he introduced and secured approval for a resolution recommending full national independence (drafted by Edmund Pendleton).

He then rushed back to Philadelphia to present the resolution to fellow delegate Richard Henry Lee, who redrafted and condensed it into his famous June 7th Lee Resolution, paving the direct path toward the Declaration of Independence. While one of my favorite films, 1776, shows Richard Henry Lee single-handedly securing approval in Williamsburg, it was actually Thomas Nelson Jr. who championed and helped pass the resolution in Virginia (with Patrick Henry’s crucial backing) before Lee introduced it in Philadelphia!

Sadly, Nelson’s health took a turn for the worse, and in the spring of 1777, he resigned from Congress after likely suffering a mild stroke. Despite his failing health, Nelson refused to step down from the fight. He was commissioned as a brigadier general and placed in command of the Virginia state militia.

Throughout the war, General Nelson remained a dedicated leader, frequently using his personal wealth and credit to support the war effort. He was an extraordinary fundraiser; when public credit was exhausted, he raised loans on his personal security to pay Virginia’s portion of the funds needed for the Continental Treasury and the French fleet. His financial sacrifices for the cause of American freedom left him virtually destitute after the war.

In June 1781, Nelson succeeded Thomas Jefferson as Governor of Virginia. During the Battle of Yorktown, he served simultaneously as Governor and Brigadier General of the militia. This fight was personal for Nelson—Cornwallis had initially taken up residence in his uncle Thomas’s home, and Nelson’s own home stood directly in the line of fire. According to long-standing historic legend, Nelson observed that artillery fire was sparing his home and, suspecting British officers were occupying it, directed the American gunners to open fire on his own house. While separating legend from fact is tricky, the house certainly sustained damage; an unexploded cannonball found nearby was embedded into the masonry in the 20th century to commemorate the siege.

The strain of the siege, combined with heavy gunfire and gunpowder smoke, severely worsened Nelson’s asthma. He resigned as governor in November 1781, with Benjamin Harrison taking over the office.

Thomas Nelson Jr.’s declining health continued to burden him. He passed away in January 1789 while visiting his son’s home in Hanover County at just fifty years old. While he may not always be a household name alongside contemporaries like Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, Richard Henry Lee, and George Washington, Nelson remains a giant of the Revolution whose zeal, sacrifice, and fortitude were indispensable in the nation’s darkest hours.

I’ll be sharing more stories from Yorktown’s historic buildings in an upcoming post… stay tuned! There is far too much history to contain in a single blog adventure.

After walking in the footsteps of Revolutionary History in historic Yorktown, I returned to my car and proceeded to drive to a few of the historic siege sites on the battlefield tour…I didn’t have time to take the entire tour this trip as I needed to catch the shuttle for the Hamilton on Hamilton event by the Victory Monument, but did at least pass by:

• Hornwork
• Redoubts 9 and 10
• Moore House (learn more here)

*stay tuned for an upcoming ‘Tour of Yorktown Battlefield’ post as it’s so much to cover I want to do it justice.

Visiting Yorktown’s Historic Sites like We’re Running Out of Time… #Hamilton

I parked my car at the Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center just before 6:00 p.m. and took the free shuttle to the Yorktown Victory Monument on the York Riverfront, where the National Park Service was hosting a fun outdoor event: Hamilton on Hamilton. This was a fantastic opportunity to set up a lawn chair and enjoy a conversation with our friend Alexander Hamilton (whom we met earlier at the museum) before watching the movie musical Hamilton under the stars. Despite the early bad weather, at least 1,000 history buffs of all ages and backgrounds were ready to sing along with history right where victory happened 245 years ago.

When I’m not blogging (or working my day job to pay for my history adventures), I’m a singer-songwriter and a huge musical theater fan. While Hamilton isn’t 100% historically accurate, it captures the spirit of Alexander Hamilton’s life, and I love how the music has inspired so many people to dig deeper into history! I’d love it if someone created a musical about Lafayette, James Monroe, or James Madison… there are countless stories from the Revolutionary War worthy of Broadway or the big screen. That’s why I encourage everyone to explore Revolutionary history and discover the real-life drama of our past…it’s not only history, it’s a true page-turner!

The setting for the evening’s Hamilton on Hamilton event was particularly poignant, with the big screen set up in the shadow of the Yorktown Victory Monument on the sacred ground where America’s freedom was forged.

Get to Know the Yorktown Victory Monument

No visit to Yorktown is complete without a stop at the Yorktown Victory Monument, which stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by all those who fought for American independence, culminating in the surrender of Cornwallis’s army at Yorktown on October 19th, 1781. The monument—standing as a guardian over the York River and located atop the hallowed ground where the fight for liberty was won—is a inspiring sight. Especially as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it serves as a monument that can unify and inspire all Americans, reminding us that we have more in common and that our differences can make us stronger. It encourages us to learn about our history and reflect on our role as American citizens in “We the People…”

The monument’s own history is one for the record books—a story of perseverance and the importance of commemorating history for future generations. Commissioned as one of the very first official government monuments in the United States, its journey took nearly a century to come to life.

On October 24th, 1781, Lt. Colonel Tench Tilghman, Washington’s aide-de-camp, arrived in Philadelphia to deliver the “glorious news” of Cornwallis’s surrender to the Continental Congress. Just ten days later, on Monday, October 29th, 1781, Congress officially recognized the historic victory with a resolution directing that a monument be erected at Yorktown:

That the United States in Congress assembled, will cause to be erected at York, in Virginia, a marble column, adorned with emblems of the alliance between the United States and his Most Christian Majesty; and inscribed with a succinct narrative of the surrender of Earl Cornwallis to his Excellency General Washington, Commander in Chief of the combined forces of America and France; to his Excellency the Count de Rochambeau, commanding the auxiliary troops of his Most Christian Majesty in America, and his Excellency the Count de Grasse, commanding in chief the naval army of France in the Chesapeake.

Even though Congress authorized the monument only ten days after the victory at Yorktown, nearly a century passed before it was actually built. This was partially because the war did not officially end until the Treaty of Paris in 1783, coupled with the monumental task of forging a new nation—transitioning from the Articles of Confederation to the U.S. Constitution and beyond. It wasn’t that America forgot about the monument; there were simply pressing national matters to address first.

In 1834, the citizens of Yorktown petitioned Congress to erect the monument as specified in 1781. As the Congressional committee report noted, the structure would commemorate “an event that terminated the struggle of our fathers for liberty and independence” and emphasized that “no event in our history is more worthy of commemoration than that which crowned the American Revolution with success and triumph.” The resulting bill provided for the purchase of the grounds and a protective railing around them.

Sadly, the project was deferred once again and was not revisited until after the American Civil War. The approaching centennial of the Battle of Yorktown reignited nationwide support. In 1881, the Secretary of War commissioned architect Richard Morris Hunt, sculptor John Quincy Adams Ward, and architect Henry Van Brunt to design the Victory Monument. (Fun fact: Richard Morris Hunt became the go-to architect of the Gilded Age, later designing Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC!).

The cornerstone was laid on October 18th, 1881, by President Chester A. Arthur on the eve of the Yorktown Centennial. The monument was completed by August 1884 and officially unveiled on October 10th, 1884.

In the aftermath of the Civil War, which had nearly torn the nation apart, remembering and celebrating the American Revolution at Yorktown served as a powerful unifying force for the entire country.

The beauty of the monument lies not only in its architectural grandeur, but in its rich symbolism. Encircling the column is the inspiring motto: “One country, one constitution, one destiny.” The structure stands 98 feet tall, featuring an 84-foot column of Maine granite topped by a 14-foot statue of Lady Liberty. She extends her arms outward to symbolize a wish for the nation’s growth and prosperity. Beneath her, thirteen female figures stand hand-in-hand to represent the original thirteen colonies. Between the figures and the crown are stars representing each state in the Union at the time of the monument’s design. Emblems representing nationality, war, alliance, and peace adorn the base of the structure.

Like our nation—which has faced severe trials but persevered through endurance—the Victory Monument has weathered its own share of adversity. In 1942, a lightning strike decapitated the statue of Liberty, leading sculptor Oskar J. W. Hansen to carve a replacement figure, which was installed alongside a new lightning rod in 1956. Unfortunately, lightning struck again in 1990, damaging her hands and torso. Meticulous repairs were completed, and today she stands proudly overlooking the river to symbolize America’s hard-fought independence.

When you visit the monument, take a moment to honor all those who fought and died for liberty during the American Revolution, and reflect on the enduring call to fulfill the founding ideals of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” as one United States of America.

“My name is Alexander Hamilton…” — Highlights of Hamilton on Hamilton

During the evening conversation, Alexander Hamilton—portrayed by living historian Luke Nathan Phillips—answered questions from Jerri Marr, Superintendent of Colonial National Historical Park. Their discussion covered Hamilton’s pivotal role in the American Revolution, the victory at Yorktown, and the founding of the republic—from the Constitutional Convention and The Federalist Papers to his tenure as the first Secretary of the Treasury—alongside inspiring words as the nation prepares for its Semiquincentennial. Superintendent Marr’s opening remarks moved the crowd as she spoke about Yorktown’s rich heritage and the countdown toward Yorktown’s 250th anniversary in 2031.

Counting down to Yorktown’s 250th anniversary on October 19th, 2031, visitors can participate in a walk through history across Colonial National Historical Park and the surrounding region via the 250 Adventure Ranger Program’s Journey Through Your Backyard. Inspired by the National Park Service’s Junior Ranger program, this hands-on quest invites adventurers of all ages to explore local museums, historic landmarks, and special events while collecting passport stamps, completing challenges, and discovering the stories that shaped American independence. Even if you don’t live near Yorktown, you can complete the activities over multiple visits or collaborate as a family team to collect stamps. I’m looking forward to completing the challenge myself and sharing my journey along the way!

As darkness fell, the big screen illuminated, and the opening chords of Hamilton energized the crowd—with hundreds singing along and creating new memories right where history happened. I had a wonderful time watching (and singing along with) the musical for over an hour, until the bone-chilling breezes coming off the York River forced me to wave the proverbial “white flag” and call it a night.

I’m usually a diligent planner when it comes to packing extra layers, but considering temperatures reached ninety degrees in Raleigh, NC, and Williamsburg, VA, just two days prior, I hadn’t packed the heavy winter gear needed for an autumn cold snap. Sitting right along the riverfront as temperatures dropped into the upper thirties, my Patagonia fleece just wasn’t enough. (Having lived in Montana for five years, I can usually handle cold weather, but I’ll admit I had to surrender to the autumn chill!). After two hours, I decided it was time to head back to “camp.”

Having skipped dinner—and with my Mobjack coffee and cookie long worn off—I drove into Merchants Square in Williamsburg for a late dinner around 8:30 p.m. at one of my favorite local spots, DoG Street Pub. They offer a great menu at reasonable prices, so I ordered a burger, a house salad, and a glass of their house-blend root beer…a perfect Huzzah! to cap off a jam-packed day of history.

Sunday: October 18th, 2026

245 years ago on this day, negotiations for the surrender terms began at the Moore House in Yorktown—something I carried with me throughout my Revolutionary adventures on Sunday… Can you imagine the drama and tension of that day? What did surrender mean? Was the world turning upside down?

After attending Mass at Our Lady of Walsingham on Sunday morning near the campus of William & Mary in historic downtown Williamsburg, I had the exciting opportunity to finally meet one of my all-time favorite heroes of the Revolutionary War—a hero of two worlds: the Marquis de Lafayette!

Colonial Williamsburg hosted a wonderful conversation with the Marquis de Lafayette about his life as a young French aristocrat who volunteered at his own expense to help the fledgling United States win her independence. Lafayette truly believed in the cause of liberty and pledged his life and personal fortune to help us in the fight.

This program transports us to October 18th, 1781, when the Marquis rushes in to share the news of the surrender being negotiated at the Moore House in Yorktown. He shared how, since March 1781, he had been engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with the British. He was first sent by General George Washington to take command of the newly formed Light Infantry Division, where his initial goal was to track down and capture the traitor Benedict Arnold, who had been ravaging Virginia since December 1780. Washington even gave Lafayette authorization to hang Benedict Arnold as a traitor if caught! However, Arnold suffered from an illness that led to him being recalled to New York.

On May 13th, British General Phillips died in Petersburg from a fever, leaving Benedict Arnold temporarily in command of the British Army of Virginia until General Lord Cornwallis arrived from the Carolinas with over 7,000 troops. Arnold, still facing illness himself, was summoned back to New York.

Lafayette, facing this new foe, wrote to Washington regarding his ability to combat the British:

“…A general defeat which with such a proportion of Militia must be expected would involve this State and our affairs into ruin, has rendered me extremely cautious in my movements. Indeed, I am more embarrassed to move… Was I any ways equal to the Enemy, I would be extremely happy in my present command—but I am not strong enough even to get beaten.”

Lafayette’s opponents were General Phillips and then Lord Cornwallis, who had left Wilmington, NC, to march up to Petersburg, VA, in May 1781. Cornwallis had hoped that by moving into Virginia he could sever Nathanael Greene’s supply chains from the state and perhaps lure Greene into Virginia to end it all for good. Greene, however, decided to remain in the Carolinas and refuse Cornwallis’s bait (that is a write-up for another day, but an essential part of the road to Yorktown!). Cornwallis’s decision to ignore his superior, General Clinton, who had commanded him to stay in the Carolinas, and instead march into Virginia would ultimately prove to be his downfall.

During this lively discussion, the Marquis de Lafayette shared how he and Cornwallis played a dangerous cat-and-mouse game in the months leading up to Yorktown, with the Marquis shadowing Cornwallis’s movements. Lafayette joked that he was often the mouse in this game:

“We played the cat-and-mouse game for weeks until we finally engaged with General Lord Cornwallis at Green Spring, not far from Williamsburg, on the late afternoon of July 6th, 1781. I thought we’d caught Cornwallis in a trap, but he was no dummy—it was us that was the ‘trapped mouse.’”

Lafayette recounted that tense day at Green Spring. It was there on July 6th, 1781, that General Charles Cornwallis and cavalry commander Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton, leading 5,000 British and Hessian troops, clashed with 800 American troops commanded by Brig. Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne and the Marquis de Lafayette. Believing the main British force had already crossed the James River and that he was merely attacking Cornwallis’s rear guard, Wayne soon realized he was facing vastly superior numbers. He startled the advancing British forces by daringly charging them, exchanging volleys, and then swiftly withdrawing his troops before they could be surrounded and defeated. Thankfully, approaching dusk prevented Cornwallis from pursuing the Americans, allowing them to live to fight another day.

Lafayette also spoke about his friend and confidant, the enslaved man James Armistead (later James Armistead Fayette), who served as a vital spy for the Patriots under Lafayette’s direction. Lafayette worked tirelessly to ensure James was granted his freedom after the war. In honor of their deep bond, James took the surname Lafayette.

I’ll write a dedicated feature on this fascinating history soon… but suffice it to say, the chance to hear directly from Lafayette about how the call of liberty compelled him to join the fight for American independence and his crucial role in the days leading up to Yorktown, including capturing Redoubt 10 alongside Alexander Hamilton was unforgettable.

Get to Know Lafayette:

Mark Schneider has portrayed Colonial Williamsburg’s Lafayette since 1998! He is a foremost expert on Lafayette and brings his story to life for thousands of visitors at Colonial Williamsburg, as well as at national events throughout the year. He frequently represented Lafayette during the American Friends of Lafayette events, including the bicentennial commemoration of Lafayette’s 1824–1825 Farewell Tour of America. If you ever get the chance to see Mark as Lafayette, it is a real treat, as he is a master historian on the life and legacy of the Marquis. A versatile historical interpreter, Schneider also portrays the nemesis of the Patriots, Banastre Tarleton, highlighting his role in the Battle of the Hook for Gloucester County’s VA250 commemorations!

• Follow his Instagram here

The Conversation with Lafayette wrapped up around two-fifteen.  One of the highlights was the seven year old dressed up like Lafayette beside me who had begged his parents to bring him to Williamsburg from Philadelphia to see Lafayette.  Seeing kids getting excited about history and eager to ask questions and hungry to learn warms my heart.  Huzzah for History and how it can bring us together.

Williamsburg’s Merchant’s Square was buzzing with foot traffic as I left the Kimball Theatre and made my way to my car for a program about Lafayette in the historic Gloucester Courthouse (across the York River from Yorktown).  Before heading to my next stop I quickly grabbed a pumpkin latte nearby (next to the Mellow Mushroom for directions sake) called the Secret Garden.

Merchant’s Square in the heart of Williamsburg is a coffee lover’s dream with Illy Coffee, Aroma’s, Secret Garden and a few other haunts perfect for a revolutionary cup…

Next Stop: Time Traveling with the American Friends of Lafayette

I’ve long been an admirer of the courage of the Marquis de Lafayette and his willingness to risk his life and personal fortune in the fight for liberty. I was delighted to discover the American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) in 2024 and learn about their incredible work spreading the history and legacy of the Marquis. They play an indispensable role in honoring the Franco-American Alliance and celebrating the victory at Yorktown during Yorktown Victory Weekend. I was thrilled to join the AFL for several member events during the festivities.

The best part about the AFL is that it’s very affordable to join and open to anyone with a passion for Lafayette and Revolutionary history! Learn more about the American Friends of Lafayette here: https://friendsoflafayette.wildapricot.org/

• Follow AFL on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanFriendsofLafayette

History & Mission of the AFL:

The American Friends of Lafayette is a historical and patriotic society founded in 1932 at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania. It is dedicated to memory of Major General Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, and to the study of his life and times in both America and France. Membership is open to all history lovers who wish to celebrate his enduring legacy.

Mission: The American Friends of Lafayette is dedicated to preserving the ideals of this great French visionary leader, the inspirational quality of his remarkable career, his pivotal contributions to our struggle for liberty, and his ceaseless efforts to forge an eternal bond of friendship between the United States and France. The goal of the Society is to foster and promote this traditional friendship through continual research into the history that began with the American War for Independence, preserving documents and historical discoveries past and present that shed light on the life of the Marquis.

Vive Lafayette! at Historic Gloucester Courthouse

I had the treat of attending a special event hosted by the American Friends of Lafayette at the Museum of History at Gloucester, located in the heart of historic Gloucester Courthouse inside the circa 1770 Botetourt Building. Originally built as a tavern for travelers heading to the courthouse, it stands as a true “witness building” to the American Revolution.

This marvelous museum tells the story of Gloucester’s rich heritage—from its Native American roots to the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, African American history, women’s history, and beyond.

The highlight of the day was a presentation showcasing memorabilia from the AFL-sponsored Bicentennial Commemoration (2024–2025), which retraced Lafayette’s famous Farewell Tour of 1824–1825. Several living historians, including Mark Schneider, traveled across the nation following in the footsteps of the Marquis, bringing history alive through parades, formal balls, historic lectures, and reenactments. The afternoon program at the museum featured mementos collected from celebrations hosted across all twenty-four states that existed when Lafayette made his triumphant return trip 200 years ago, highlighting how local communities united to honor America’s favorite fighting Frenchman—the “Hero of Two Worlds.”

Looking ahead, the AFL will kick off their America 250: Vive Lafayette tour starting in June 2027 in Georgetown, South Carolina, marking the exact anniversary and location where Lafayette and Baron de Kalb first set foot in America to join the cause of liberty. (We’ll meet the 2027–2031 “Young Lafayette,” Roy Wulf, at the AFL cocktail party in just a bit!).

Gloucester County: A Hidden Historic Gem

One of my favorite hidden historic gems in the greater Williamsburg and Yorktown area is Gloucester County and the historic town of Gloucester Courthouse. Located just across the York River from downtown Yorktown, history lovers will fall in love with Gloucester County, which was once the heart of the Powhatan Confederacy—including the capital of Werowocomoco and the home of Pocahontas—before becoming one of the earliest English settlements in the region.

During the Revolutionary War, it was the site of the crucial, albeit often overlooked, Battle of the Hook on October 3rd, 1781. Allied Franco-American forces under the Duc de Lauzun and French General Marquis de Choisy defeated British forces under Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton and Lt. Colonel Thomas Dundas near Seawell’s Ordinary, not far from Gloucester Point. The Allies forced the British back into their defenses at Gloucester Point, cutting off their land escape route and access to foraging, which effectively severed supply lines for the British trapped under siege in Yorktown. (More on this history in a future post… it’s one of my favorite chapters in the story of the Siege of Yorktown, and Gloucester is packed with so much incredible history!).

This Franco-American victory helped choke off any remaining breathing room for Cornwallis, pinning the British at Gloucester Point (historically known as Tyndall’s Point) and leaving them unable to forage for desperately needed provisions. When Cornwallis attempted a desperate night escape by boat across the river to Gloucester Point on October 16th–17th—hoping to break through Allied lines to the north—a sudden, severe squall scattered the transports, preventing the crossing and sealing the fate of his army toward surrender. Stay tuned for a deep dive on this soon!

Spirited History

After touring the museum and viewing the Lafayette Bicentennial mementos, I began the drive back to Yorktown to attend a moving memorial ceremony dedicated to the French Navy.

On the way back, I made a quick stop at Seawell’s Ordinary, which dates to the mid-1700s and was a literal witness to the Battle of the Hook on October 3rd, 1781. Today, this historic building sits on the grounds of an auto dealership—and thank goodness they preserved the original structure! I’ll be sharing a dedicated Hidden History post about this unique spot very soon…

Photos from an earlier visit to Gloucester Point, which played a vital role in the Siege and Surrender at Yorktown, including site of the second surrender on October 19, 1781

While in Gloucester don’t miss:

• Gloucester Point/Tyndall’s Point
• Brief stop at Seawell’s Ordinary
• Gloucester Museum of History
• Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester of Virginia
• Fairfield Foundation https://fairfieldfoundation.org/ Roswell Plantation Ruins and other historic sites
• Machicomoco State Park (Native American Heritage)

French Memorial Dedication:

The American Friends of Lafayette attended a moving memorial dedication event for the unveiling of a granite marker in downtown Yorktown by the American Society of Le Souvenir Francais honoring the 3,250 French sailors and soldiers who died at sea from 1778 to 1783 in the fight for the Independence of the United States during the Revolutionary War…

The American Society of Le Souvenir Francais is an association dedicated to maintaining war memorials and preserving the memory of French soldiers in the United States…

This memorial dedication was particularly meaningful as it happened on October 18th, the day the surrender terms were finalized at Yorktown at the Moore House (official surrender occurred on October 19th, 1781)…the victory at Yorktown would not have been possible without French Naval assistance in their victory in the Battle of the Capes, which helped cut Cornwallis escape route via the Chesapeake.

The ceremony included members of the French Military and other dignitaries. General Rochambeau, hero of Yorktown, also made an appearance. Here are a few photo highlights.

Strolling through History in Williamsburg.

I enjoyed a twilight stroll through the heart of Colonial Williamsburg passing Bruton Parish to the Powder Magazine to the Governor’s Palace and other sites before heading over Merchant’s Square for a fabulous dinner at French inspired Blue Talon Bistro. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Williamsburg.  It has a warm French inspired atmosphere meets Colonial style and a menu that Lafayette would approve of. Given the fact that it is Victory Weekend, I decided to break my diet and indulge in their Steak Frites meal (less than $30.00 for steak, fries, salad – delicious!).  I couldn’t resist trying their award-winning gluten free creme brulee for dessert either.

This was the perfect Huzzah for History and a Revolutionary Day of Victory

Monday: October 19th, 1781 – Yorktown Day

Victory is Secured: Celebrating the 245th Anniversary of the Surrender of Yorktown

Yorktown Day is a time-honored celebration that occurs every October 19th to commemorate the victory at Yorktown and the surrender of Cornwallis’s British army on October 19th, 1781. While the American Revolution did not technically end until 1783 with the Treaty of Paris, it was at Yorktown that victory truly secured the hope of American independence. The day’s festivities included memorial dedications to those who fought and sacrificed everything for our freedom, as well as a lively parade. It is a wonderful event that brings people of all backgrounds together.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the morning parade and wreath-laying ceremonies at both the French and American memorials in Yorktown, as work obligations kept me locked into virtual meetings. (I did catch the parade via social media, though—Huzzah!). However, I wasn’t going to miss out on all the fun on Yorktown Day (Victory Day). After lunch, I was able to drive over to Yorktown to attend a book signing with three amazing authors at the Gallery at York Hall:

Libby Carty McNamee — Award-Winning Author of Susanna’s Midnight Ride: I first discovered Libby’s page-turning about Revolutionary Patriot Susanna Bolling in 2024, and it instantly became a favorite. The meticulously researched novel brings to life the real-story of a little-known but game-changing patriot. Susanna was only sixteen years old when British General Lord Cornwallis marched into her family’s plantation at City Point (present-day Hopewell, not far from Richmond) and occupied the home.

Susanna overheard Cornwallis discussing his plan to capture Continental Army General Marquis de Lafayette, who was headquartered at the Halfway House about fifteen minutes from her home. In an act of daring courage, Susanna snuck out of her house through an underground tunnel, paddled across the Appomattox River, and rode fifteen miles through the dark night to warn Lafayette. He received the warning in time, escaping to fight another day and ultimately becoming a central hero in the decisive victory against Cornwallis at Yorktown on October 19, 1781.

• Order your copy of Susanna’s Midnight Ride here: https://libbymcnamee.com/store/Susannas-Midnight-Ride-The-Girl-Who-Won-the-Revolutionary-War-SIGNED-COPY-p610237153

Libby learned about the story from one of Susanna’s descendants and dedicated herself to researching the history to bring it to life. In 2019, the Virginia General Assembly passed a resolution designating December 5th as Susanna Bolling Day, and a historical marker honoring her was erected near the Halfway House in 2024. Libby shared: “Very few people know her story, but that is my mission—to spread the word. The Battle of Yorktown never would have taken place had Lafayette been captured. Susanna reminds us all that no matter how young or old you are, you can make a difference.”

While this book is written for middle-grade readers (4th–8th grade), it is truly a story for all ages and a book I’ve re-read time and again. Though Susanna’s home sadly burned in the 1920s, famous Civil War photographer Mathew Brady documented it decades after her famous Revolutionary War ride. I also learned from Libby that the Halfway House—where Lafayette was headquartered and from which he escaped Cornwallis—is still standing today and operates as a restaurant near Richmond! This is definitely going on my Revolutionary Road Trip bucket list.

Alan Hoffman — President of the American Friends of Lafayette: It was wonderful to catch up with Alan and hear more about the incredible work the AFL does to preserve the Marquis’s memory across the nation. Buy his book Lafayette in America here.

Bruce Mowday — Author and Historian: I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with Bruce, who has written several well-researched books about the Revolutionary War, including Battle of Brandywine – September 11, 1777: Washington’s Defeat at Brandywine Dooms Philadelphia and Lafayette at Brandywine. He shared his passion for history and discussed how Lafayette’s unwavering devotion to liberty and his sacrifices for the cause of independence continue to inspire his writing. Find his books here: https://mowday.com/books/

York Hall and its gallery were absolute heaven for history and art lovers alike, featuring exceptional books for sale alongside works by local artists—including hand-painted Yorktown cards, jewelry, and regional crafts. The prices were very affordable, and I loved that the items were handmade, sourced from the local community, or deeply tied to Yorktown’s history.

As I left York Hall, the stirring sound of fifes and drums echoed nearby while a lively hubbub of visitors and locals moved through the historic streets. Some were dressed in full 18th-century colonial garb and period military uniforms, while others, like me, were in modern clothing (though I am actively working on piecing together a proper 18th-century ensemble soon!).

That afternoon, I enjoyed strolling along the downtown riverfront, visiting the Four Generals statues, moseying through local bookshops, and grabbing a hot cup of coffee.

To cap off the Yorktown Day celebrations, I attended the famous American Friends of Lafayette (AFL) Cocktail Party at the Yorktown Freight Shed. Members of the AFL from across the nation gathered alongside French dignitaries to toast to freedom and celebrate the enduring alliance between the United States and our oldest ally, France—whose contributions were vital to securing independence throughout the war and especially at Yorktown.

The evening festivities included Lafayette-inspired wine from Williamsburg Winery, delicious French-inspired cuisine, and great conversation. Highlights of the night included a spirited toast from the Marquis de Lafayette (portrayed by Mark Schneider) and an inspiring speech by French General, Vincent de Kytspotter about the Seven Miracles of Yorktown.

I also had the pleasure of meeting the talented “Young Lafayette,” Roy Wulf, a freshman at William & Mary with a deep passion for history and for bringing the Marquis’s early story to life. You can follow Roy on Instagram and meet “Young Lafayette” in person during his 2027 America 250 Lafayette Tour, which kicks off in Georgetown, SC, on June 13th, 2027! (Follow Roy online here for his Historical Adventures)

• Follow Lafayette’s 250th arrival in 2027 from Georgetown (SC) to Brandywine (PA) here: https://afl250.org/ and on the American Friends of Lafayette Facebook Page

While Victory Weekend is now officially in the history books, the memories made while walking in the footsteps of giants at Yorktown 245 years later will stay with me for a lifetime.

It’s been a fun, jam packed Revolutionary Weekend in the Historic Triangle…thanks for reading along for this deep dive into the 245th Anniversary Weekend of the Surrender at Yorktown…

I’ll be posting additional features about Yorktown, more Revolutionary Road Trips and fun adventures soon…

For daily history, travel, coffee, art and everything in between check out my Facebook page and Instagram…

Also I have started blogging on Substack for shorter fun posts as well. https://americannomadtraveler.substack.com/ Follow Along for more history, travel and adventures.

Huzzah for History…

Thanks for reading – Adele aka ‘The American Nomad Traveler…’

About Adele:

Hey everyone! I’m Adele and I started American Nomad Traveler to share my love of travel and history…A few fun facts about me…Born and raised in North Carolina…I love music and am a singer songwriter…my EP American Nomad is available on Bandcamp and all streaming services (recorded in Nashville; I’m a Belmont University alum)…I’ve visited forty-six states, lived and worked in Yellowstone National Park, and visited over thirty national parks…I love history and storytelling…I have an expertise especially in Revolutionary War history and love to visit sites tied to the Revolutionary War. I’ve written articles for Wilmington NC CVB, Randolph County NC, Wilkes County NC and more…

Interested in collaborating on a feature – feel free to connect via americannomadtraveler@gmail.com