Upcoming Events:
From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points in the Revolutionary War
September 9, 2025
Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Rising Sun Tavern | Admission: FREE
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library is hosting four book discussions in celebration of America’s semiquincentennial. The first will be held at the historic Rising Sun Tavern in Fredericksburg and will discuss From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points in the Revolutionary War, by John R. Maas. This work, published to coincide with the 250th anniversary, provides a sweeping narrative of five critical military events that changed the outcome of the Revolutionary War, including the Yorktown Campaign of 1781. This book discussion, led by both librarians and historians, will provide an opportunity for attendees to discuss the key moments of the Revolutionary War in a home built by George Washington’s youngest brother, Charles, in 1760. Contact the Porter Adult Services Desk at 540-372–1144 x7339 for a copy to be held for you or sent to another branch for your convenience. A library card is not required to reserve this book. Limited copies are available.
WHM Tea Talk
September 16, 2025
11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2 - 4 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Join us on Tuesday, September 16th for an engaging Tea Talk as we delve into the fascinating legacy of the oldest patriotic organization in the United States. Founded in 1783, the Society was created by officers of the Continental Army who served together in the American Revolution. George Washington became the Society’s first president general, leading his officers from war to peace. Our Tea Talk will be led by Paul Newman, Museum Collections and Operations Manager for The American Revolution Institute of The Society of the Cincinnati in Washington, DC. Discover the history, values and lasting impact of this remarkable institution and George Washington’s role in its founding. Ticket price is $40.00 per person and includes a Full Tea with a selection of savories and sweets, hot tea and presentation by our guest speaker.
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Pirates and Punch
Saturday, September 20, 2025
6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Rising Sun Tavern Museum
Join us at the Rising Sun Tavern Museum for an evening of swashbuckling tales, raucous music, and a taste of life on the high seas in the age of piracy. Enter our Federal era tavern to hear tales of piracy and poaching on the high seas. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample historically based refreshments and snacks. Finish the evening as the Rappahannock Whalers take the stage, filling the tavern with the sounds of sea songs as they would have been performed in the age of sail. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of adventure or simply looking for a unique night out, the Rising Sun Tavern Museum promises an experience you won’t soon forget!
WHM Speaker Series:
Living Legacies: African American History in the Fredericksburg Area
October 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
​Central Rappahannock Regional Library Theater
Speaker: Dr. Gaila Sims, Inaugural Curator of African American History at the Fredericksburg Area Museum
Mary's Ribbons - Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 1 – 31, 2025
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
This October, we invite you to remember and honor the brave individuals who have faced breast cancer—and those who continue the fight today. This cause holds special meaning at the Mary Washington House. It was here, in 1789, that Mary Ball Washington passed away after a long and painful battle with breast cancer. Her courageous struggle with the illness continues to inspire generations. Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, guests are encouraged to tie a pink ribbon to the fence in front of the historic Mary Washington House. This simple, heartfelt gesture raises awareness and offers a space for personal remembrance. Stop inside to receive a ribbon, or reserve one online and we’ll tie it for you. Participation is free and open to the public. Let’s come together in support, remembrance, and hope—honoring Mary Washington and all those who have faced this disease with courage.
Bourbon and Boxwood – 10th Anniversary
October 4, 2025
7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Attend this annual, sell-out event: a spirited garden party with live music, plentiful food, drinks, tastings, silent auction, fantastic guests, and an outstanding way to financially support all five historic properties and their educational programs.​
Sponsorships currently available, individual tickets available to the public on September 2, 2025.
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St. James’ House Fall Opening
Monday, October 6 to Saturday, October 11, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Daily
Tour the beautiful home and garden of one of Fredericksburg's early attorneys, James Mercer. The house is particularly noted for its fine collection of antique furniture and decorative arts acquired by Daniel Breslin and William Tolerton. Together, they restored St. James’ in the mid-1960s and eventually bequeathed it to Preservation Virginia. St. James’ House now serves as the headquarters for Washington Heritage Museums.
Tickets available October 1.
Tea Talk – Murder at the National Cathedral
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
11 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Uncover the grim past of the 20th century in Washington, D.C., as author Zachary G. Ford joins us for our October Tea Talk. From a love triangle gone wrong to a potential serial killer and the racially charged case of Catherine Reardon’s murder in the National Cathedral library, Murder at the National Cathedral and Other Historic D.C. Crimes covers the classic age of true crime reporting. The book features seven true D.C. tales of murder from the 1930s to the 1950s, painting a comprehensive picture of a bygone era marked by intrigue, scandal, and violence. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the author and explore the stories that shaped the city’s past.
Zachary G. Ford is a high school English teacher in Fairfax, Virginia, and an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve.
To obtain an advanced copy of the book, Murder at the National Cathedral and Other Historic D.C. Crimes, visit the Mary Washington House Museum Store during regular museum hour.
Genealogy Merit Badge for Scouts
October 11, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Earn the Genealogy Merit Badge at the historic Mary Washington House! This class for Scouts ages 11–17 covers requirements 1, 4, 5, and 8. Scouts must bring documentation for remaining requirements to receive full credit. Review the badge booklet beforehand and bring a laptop or tablet if possible. Led by Trip Wiggins, an Eagle Scout, Scout Leader, and avid historian. Tickets are non-refundable and available until 10/10/2025. While Scout uniforms are optional; troop shirts are encouraged.
Fredericksburg at the Dawn of the Revolution: A Look at the Town’s 18th-Century Built Environment
Thursday, October 30, 2025
6 - 7:30 p.m.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library Fredericksburg Branch | FREE
Join us for an informative look at the Washington Heritage Museums’ sites, featuring the Mary Washington House, Hugh Mercer Apothecary, and the Rising Sun Tavern, and other significant 18th-century structures in Fredericksburg. This lively conversation features Associate Professor Michael Spencer from the University of Mary Washington’s Historic Preservation Department and Danae Peckler, Preservationist & Architectural Historian with the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc.
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WHM Speaker Series:
Collecting, Preserving & Sharing Stories: Rappahannock Heritage Center
November 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
​Central Rappahannock Regional Library Theater
Speakers: Florence Barnick, Chair; and Roy McAfee, Vice-Chair of the Heritage Center.
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WHM Speaker Series & Annual Meeting
Revitalizing History: A Comprehensive Plan for the Mary Washington Monument Landscape
December 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
​Central Rappahannock Regional Library Theater
Speaker: Sally Harman, Principal of Field Design
The speaker's presentation will follow the brief WHM Annual Meeting.