War of 1812 Bicentennial Event May 10 at Sully

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the culmination of the War of 1812.  Almost forgotten in history, portions of the war were fought in our own backyard. The British burned a good portion of Washington, D.C. in August 1814 and sailed into Baltimore harbor and attacked Ft. McHenry in September.

On Saturday, May 10, 2014 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., Sully Historic Site hosts an event to celebrate the victory over Great Britain in America’s Second War for Independence.  

A character interpreter portraying Dolley Madison will greet visitors and discuss the dramatic events in Washington and her daring escape from the White House with the famous Gilbert Stuart painting of George Washington. Steven Vogel, Washington Post writer, will talk about his new book Through the Perilous Fight.  Following the talk at noon, author Vogel will sign copies of his book.

Live music was an important part of people’s lives before radio, CDs and iPods.  Ships Company Chanteymen will perform popular ballads, military tunes, sea chanteys and tavern songs that were well-known to working folks and gentry alike.

Hear the story of the Star Spangled Banner – a national symbol - and the 1814 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the poem that became our national anthem. Learn how to properly fold a flag.

See soldiers drill with muskets as they prepare for battle.  Play games of the period and stop by the open hearth kitchen to learn about early 19th century foods.  Tour the 1794 home of Richard Bland Lee, northern Virginia’s first congressman and friend of President James Madison. After the burning of Washington, President Madison appointed Lee as a commissioner to address claims of those who lost property during the British attack.

No reservations are required and the cost is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors and children.  This event is supported by the Sully Foundation, Ltd.  For information call 703-437-1794.

Sully Historic Site is located at 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, off Rt. 28 (Sully Road) ¼ mile north of Rt. 50 and 5 miles south of the Dulles Toll Road.