March 8
Lecture - Confederate Blockade of the Potomac
7:00 p.m., free, donations accepted
From the fall of 1861 to the winter of 1862, Confederate forces based in eastern Prince William County blocked water traffic along the Potomac River. Confederate gun batteries were established along the Potomac River in an effort to disrupt ship traffic supplying Washington D.C. The lecture will focus on the military actions along the river and the lives of the soldiers and civilians in the area along the Potomac.
Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas, VA, 703-792-4754
March 10
Family History Day-Women’s History
11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., $7 per person, children under 6 free
Many women have called Rippon Lodge home since it was built in 1747. Join us for a living history journey through their lives from the 18th century through the 1950’s. Fashion, etiquette, past times, daily work, and more will be displayed, demonstrated and used to guide our journey through time.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, 703-499-9812
March 10
Women in the Civil War
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $5.00 per person, free for children under six
Many people are familiar with the hard-working, independent Rosie the Riveter of World War II who forged new opportunities for women. Long forgotten are the women who either through choice or circumstance challenged and changed women's roles in Civil War-era America. In honor of Women’s history month, join site staff for a guided, hands-on tour about these pathfinders for women's rights. Tours start on the hour with the last tour at 4 p.m.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109; 703-367-7872
March 17
Women in the 19th Century – Lecture and Tour
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.; $10 per person, free for children under six
This program will focus on the role women played in the 19th century and, specifically, during the Civil War. Topics to be covered include a woman’s role in the family, in society, during the war, and hardships they faced (childbirth, lack of rights, etc.). Tour will include the farmhouse and a look at daily life during the time period.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA 20136, (703) 365-7895
March 17
Outfitting the Army for War
CS and US Infantry Accoutrements of 1861 and 1862
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., $10
Join painted cloth expert Wayne Hutzell and Mr. James Owens maker of museum quality replicas of Federal Knapsacks and haversacks for an in-depth discussion on the proper outfitting for Civil War living historians. Presenters will address their respective topics by using original images and artifacts from the Civil War Era as well as reproduction examples. Reproduction items will be available for sale. Program includes lunch. Reservations required.
Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas, VA, 703-792-4754
March 22
Lecture - Return to Return to Bull Run--An Author's Reflections on the Battle and Book After 20 years
7:00 p.m., free, donations accepted
Civil War historian and author, John Hennessy, will take a look back at his comprehensive work on the Second Manassas campaign. His book, “Return to Bull Run” is still today considered the authoritative study on the Battle of Second Manassas and the events leading up to the battle. This will be a unique opportunity for attendees to hear what new theories, changes or corrections a historian has made on his own work. Mr. Hennessy will share new insights and research into, what many call, Robert E. Lee’s greatest campaign of the Civil War.
Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas, VA, 703-792-4754
March 24
History Myths
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $5.00 per person, free for children under six
The mortgage button on the end of a stair-handrail, the whistle walk, and kitchens being built separate as a fire prevention measure. If you've been to many museums chances are you've probably heard one of these myths at some point. In honor of the upcoming April's Fools Day, join Ben Lomond staff on a humorous myth-busting tour of the site. Tours start on the hour with the last tour at 4 p.m.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109; 703-367-7872
March 24
American Girl Doll™ Tea
1:00 p.m., $25 per person, reservations required, not appropriate for children under 5
Bring your American Girl Doll or favorite doll for an afternoon of tea and history. Explore the history of Rippon Lodge and learn what your doll would have experienced here. Wear your favorite outfit. Enjoy traditional tea fare of mini sandwiches and sweets. One adult must accompany every three children.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, 703-499-9812
March 25
Jane Austen Tea
1:00 p.m., $25 per person, reservations required, not appropriate for children under 12
Dashwood, Bennett, Darcy, Price. If you are a fan you know these names. Join us for an afternoon tea in the style of Jane Austen and her cast of characters. Test your trivia knowledge. Regency dress encouraged.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, 703-499-9812
March 31
CWPT Annual Park Clean Up Day – Bristoe Station Battlefield
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Join the staff at Bristoe Station Battlefield and the Civil War Preservation Trust at History for Park Day 2012. Park Day is a nationwide event that encourages Civil War enthusiasts to help maintain, restore and preserve Civil War sites through volunteerism. Come out and join us for a fun and rewarding day of work at Bristoe Battlefield. Projects will include litter pick up, cleaning cemeteries and trail maintenance throughout the 133-acre park. Wear sturdy work shoes, bring gloves and remember sunscreen. Tools and snacks will be provided. Meet in the parking lot off Iron Brigade Avenue. Please no pets.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, The parking lot is located off of Iron Brigade Unit Ave., Bristow, VA 20136, 703-366-3049
