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Two days of history. One extraordinary legacy.
On October 10–11, 2026, the Freedom Forge Foundation, in partnership with Stafford VA250, welcomed the community to Revolution on the Rappahannock, a two-day commemoration celebrating the legacy of James Hunter and Hunter's Iron Works.
Bringing together historians, heritage organizations, living history interpreters, local artisans and families, the event explored an important yet often overlooked chapter of the American Revolution.
Through historical presentations, military demonstrations, interactive activities and heritage celebrations, visitors experienced the people, craftsmanship and stories behind one of America's most significant Revolutionary-era industrial operations.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating this extraordinary history.
Discovering the history of Hunter's Iron Works
An important chapter of the American Revolution
Located along the Rappahannock River in Falmouth, Virginia, Hunter's Iron Works and the Rappahannock Forge played an important role in supporting America's fight for independence.
Under the leadership of James Hunter, the forge became a major manufacturing center, producing muskets and other essential materials for George Washington's Continental Army.
Yet the story extends beyond its industrial achievements. It also includes the lives and contributions of the people who worked at the forge, including enslaved African Americans and those who sought freedom.
The October 10 symposium brought together six historians and researchers to explore these different dimensions of the site's history.
History Brought to Life
At Pratt Park, visitors experienced Revolutionary-era history through living history demonstrations, military presentations and interactive activities.
One of the highlights was the appearance of the Commander-in-Chief's Guard, also known as Washington's Life Guard. Established by George Washington in 1776, this elite unit protected the Commander in Chief, his headquarters and military supplies.
Visitors also enjoyed:
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Revolutionary-era military demonstrations and company drills
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Traditional blacksmithing and forging demonstrations
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Historic weapons, uniforms and artifact displays
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Fife and drum performances
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Historical exhibits and local artisans
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Family activities, colonial games and educational experiences
The Kid's Corner on the River provided younger visitors with an opportunity to explore history through crafts, games and hands-on activities.
From the military demonstrations to conversations with historical interpreters, the afternoon brought the American Revolution closer to visitors of all ages.
History, heritage and community
Over the weekend, Pratt Park and the surrounding Falmouth community came alive with history, heritage and activities for all generations.
Visitors experienced the American Revolution through living history demonstrations, military presentations and interactive activities. Highlights included the appearance of the Commander-in-Chief's Guard, also known as Washington's Life Guard, alongside Revolutionary-era military drills, traditional blacksmithing, historic weapons displays, fife and drum performances and family activities at the Kid's Corner on the River.
The celebration continued on Sunday with the Plaid to the Bone 10K, celebrating Scottish heritage and featuring Clan Hunter, followed by heritage tours of the Falmouth Historic Cemetery and Union Church Historic Site.
From military demonstrations and colonial games to community celebrations and historic tours, the weekend offered visitors of all ages an opportunity to connect with the stories, people and traditions that shaped the region.
Preserving the past. Forging the future.
Revolution on the Rappahannock was more than a celebration of history. It was an opportunity to bring renewed attention to Hunter's Iron Works and the importance of preserving its legacy.
From the symposium and military demonstrations to family activities and heritage celebrations, the weekend brought together a community united by an appreciation for history. Explore highlights from the commemoration in our event gallery and discover the work of the Freedom Forge Foundation to protect this historic site in Stafford County, Virginia.
Through preservation, archaeological research, education and public engagement, the Foundation hopes to create a lasting place where future generations can explore America's early industrial and military history and the stories of the people connected to the forge.
The story of Hunter's Iron Works deserves to be remembered. Together, we can help ensure it is never forgotten.
Help us preserve the past and forge a brighter future.
Event Sponsors
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