Youth 8-12 years of age will explore American history and follow in the footsteps of George Washington, his family, and his friends. They will learn about history with hands-on activities, projects, and games at Hugh Mercer Apothecary, Mary Washington House, and Rising Sun Tavern. Children will learn about 18th-century food, medicine, and daily life as they explore the places that George Washington knew well. In this evening program, most activities will take place outside in small groups. Participants will visit a new museum each night of the program. While we currently don't anticipate that masks will be required, WHM will comply with CDC guidance at the time of the event. Your children will travel through history, and you will be free to enjoy three summer evenings in downtown Fredericksburg! After purchasing tickets, you will receive an email confirmation along with a link to fill out a registration form required for each child attending.

St. James’ House is open to the public for tours just two weeks a year, a week in the spring and a week in the fall. Tour the St James’ House to see its beautiful collection of antiques and decorative arts. Be sure to stroll the handsome gardens after your tour. Admission is $5 per person. The house was originally home to James Mercer, an attorney. Mercer was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses, the first judge of the General Court in Fredericksburg, and the attorney who drew up the will of Mary Washington. Mercer built the house on land once owned by Fielding Lewis, brother-in-law of George Washington. St. James’ House contains a fine collection of antique furniture and decorative arts. Daniel Breslin and William Tolerton lovingly restored St. James’ in the mid-1960s and eventually bequeathed it to Preservation Virginia. Washington Heritage Museums then received the property and its collections by deed of gift in 2012. St. James’ House serves as the headquarters for Washington Heritage Museums.