Upcoming Events
"The Day is Ours!" General Hugh Mercer at the Battle of Princeton
Saturday, January 3, 2026
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Guest Speaker: Mark Maloy
Fredericksburg's own Hugh Mercer rose quickly in the Continental Army, becoming a brigadier general by late 1776. He played a pivotal role in the winter campaign at Trenton and Princeton, where he was mortally wounded by British bayonets—making him one of the earliest and highest-ranking martyrs for American independence. Historian and author, Mark Maloy, will delve into this dramatic campaign and Mercer’s final days. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase signed copies of the book Victory or Death: The Battles of Trenton and Princeton. Speaker: Mark Maloy, Historian and Author of "Victory or Death: The Battles of Trenton and Princeton"
Dreaming of Duquesne: Hugh Mercer and the Scramble for the Ohio Country
Saturday, January 10, 2026
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Guest Speaker: Dr. Will B. Mackintosh
Discover the dramatic struggle during the French and Indian War, where the British colonies, the French, and Indigenous nations clashed for control of the Ohio Country. Learn more about Hugh Mercer as he found himself caught up in the fighting, forging influential relationships with Virginians that ultimately lead him to Fredericksburg. Speaker: Will B. Mackintosh, Professor of History, Department of History, American Studies and Sociology, University of Mary Washington
From Battlefields to Family Bonds:
The Mercer-Weedon Story
Saturday, January 24, 2026
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Guest Speaker: Charles McDaniel
Step into the fascinating world of Revolutionary Fredericksburg, where the intertwined lives of General Mercer and General Weedon shaped both history and family legacy. Discover how these two patriots not only contributed significantly to the American Revolution but also forged deep personal bonds—marrying sisters and supporting each other’s families through times of hardship. Explore the story of the historic Sentry Box, built by General Weedon in 1786, and learn how the Mercer and Weedon families’ acts of courage and compassion left a lasting mark on their Fredericksburg community. Speaker: Charles McDaniel, Business leader, Weedon descendant, and current owner of the Sentry Box
Hugh Mercer: Citizen and Patriot of Colonial Fredericksburg
Postponed
More details to follow
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Speaker: Rudy Lane
Discover the remarkable life of Hugh Mercer, a distinguished citizen of colonial Fredericksburg. This presentation explores Mercer’s contributions to the community, his role in shaping local history, and the legacy he left behind. Journey through the social and civic landscape of Fredericksburg to see how Mercer’s leadership and patriotism made a lasting impact on the city and its people. Speaker: Rudy Lane, Teacher, On-Air Personality and Son of the American Revolution
Presidents' Day Half-Off Admission
Monday, February 16, 2026
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mary Washington House
In honor of George Washington and President’s Day, we are pleased to offer an exclusive HALF OFF discount on regular admission to all three of our Washington Heritage Museums on Monday, February 16, 2026. Discover medical practices of the 18th century at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, gain insights into the family life and legacy of the Washington family at the Mary Washington House and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Rising Sun Tavern, once a hub of social and political activity. Don't miss out on this opportunity to pay tribute to our nation's first president while enjoying this one-day only offer to journey through America's past!
Happy Birthday, George!
Saturday, February 21, 2026
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Join us in commemorating the birthday of George Washington at a special event on Saturday, February 21st. This special occasion offers not just a slice of history, but also a slice of birthday cake! Children will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity with educational crafts, organized by members of the Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society. Families can also participate in a special History Hunt while discovering artifacts and intriguing historic facts throughout the house and gardens. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or someone who simply loves a good birthday party, this event is not to be missed. The celebration is included with regular admission to the Mary Washington House.
Mary Washington: George’s Much Maligned Mother
Monday, March 16, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Fredericksburg Branch
Speaker: Laura Galke
Join us for a special presentation by Laura Galke, Archeologist, and Mary Washington House Site Interpreter. Not long after turning eleven, George Washington faced a significant turning point. His father passed away, leaving his mother, now a widow, the daunting task of raising her five young children alone. In the twentieth century, narratives emerged that cast Mary Washington as a somewhat inept and self-absorbed figure - a parental hurdle that George had to overcome. This presentation seeks to shed light on Mary Washington's life, delving into her struggles and the consequential actions she took, while also acknowledging the family’s trials and celebrating their accomplishments. It is a story that recognizes the resilience and determination of a mother navigating a patriarchal society while trying to provide for and guide her children.
Tea Talk: The Story of Old Glory
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Tickets will be available for purchase on Monday, February 2nd.
On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, history enthusiasts and tea lovers alike are invited to our first 2026 Tea Talk, “Unfolding History – The Story of Old Glory.” The event features John Ryan, Chief Operating Officer of Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, NJ. John will help us delve into the origins and early history of the flag of the United States and will separate out myths from factual history. Learn about the stories behind the symbols, colors and designs that shaped Old Glory from colonial times through the Civil War. Each guest will also receive a limited edition 250th Anniversary Lapel Pin!
Bourbon and Boxwood
Saturday, October 3, 2026
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Raise a glass to 250 years as we honor America's legacy! Washington Heritage Museums announces the eleventh annual Bourbon and Boxwood event, on October 3, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. (Please note the new time!) This year, we are proudly celebrating the historic 250th anniversaries of both Virginia and the United States, and we hope you will join us for this grand event. Bourbon and Boxwood, the name, evokes George Washington’s success as a distiller and Mary Washington’s love of boxwood gardens. Bourbon and Boxwood, the event, is a beautiful garden party that brings together dedicated supporters from near and far, featuring live music, plentiful food and drinks, and a silent auction. Most importantly, this event serves as an outstanding way to financially support all five of WHM’s historic properties and their beneficial educational programs. Washington Heritage Museums is truly grateful to all our donors and sponsors. Your individual generosity and corporate partnerships are crucial to the success of WHM. Your support is essential for the preservation of these historic museums, educational programs, and ongoing research that delves into the stories and lives that have shaped this great nation. WHM does not receive ongoing city, state, or federal funds; our operations are entirely funded through the generosity of donations, sponsorships, grants, memberships, and museum admissions. We invite you to make a meaningful impact by choosing to sponsor the Bourbon and Boxwood event. Your sponsorship not only supports this community and these museums but also ensures the preservation of our shared history. Be sure to explore the 2026 Sponsorship Packet for detailed information on how you can be part of this extraordinary event.