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Revolution on the Rappahannock
Hunter's Iron Works and American Independence
October 10-11, 2026 | Falmouth, VA
The Freedom Forge Foundation invites you to a
Stafford VA250 Commemoration Event!
​​Revolution on the Rappahannock: Hunter's Iron Works and American Independence, will be held on October 10-11, 2026 in Falmouth, Virginia.
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This Stafford VA250 Commemoration Event features James Hunter, the hero behind Hunter’s Iron Works and the Rappahannock Forge, both historically located on the Rappahannock River near Falmouth.
During the American Revolution, this site was the "greatest Iron Works on the Continent," producing muskets and tools essential to George Washington’s victory. Despite its vital role, this military-industrial hub is often overlooked in history books. We are about to change that through our preservation efforts and by commemorating its contribution during America’s 250th Anniversary.
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​The event is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is requested. Please consider a donation of $10 or more when you register. Your contribution will help defray the cost of this event and help us preserve the historic Hunter's Iron Works site. You will receive a confirmation email with donation information after you RSVP.
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Enjoy military reenactments, living history experiences, symposium speakers, and other Rev War adventures.​
EVENT DETAILS
OCTOBER 10-11, 2026
Location - Historic Falmouth, Virginia
Pratt Park
120 River Rd
Fredericksburg, Virginia​ 22405
OCTOBER 10
Symposium 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Kathi Lynn Austin, Freedom Forge Foundation - Preserving the Iconic Hunter’s Iron Works
Jerrilynn Eby MacGregor, Stafford Historical Society - James Hunter & the American Revolution
Craig Bell, American Society of Arms Collectors - The Guns Made at James Hunter’s Rappahannock Forge
Katherine Egner, Historian - Striking While the Iron is Hot: Self-Emancipation at Hunter’s Iron Works
Barbra Anderson, Historic Fredericksburg Foundation, Inc. - James Hunter & Fredericksburg’s Gunnery
Shelby Chandler, James Monroe Memorial Foundation - Hunter’s Freemasonry Legacy
Main Event 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
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Military Reenactments
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Living History Experiences
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Blacksmithing and Forging
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Symposium Speakers
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Military Honors
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Bagpipes, Recorders, and Fife & Drums​​
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Kid's Corner on the River!
Heritage Tours
Falmouth Historic Cemetery & Union Church Historic Site Tours
Times TBD
Bring the Whole Family!
Play colonial games, get creative with crafts, meet courageous animals, explore historic relics, and discover the ghost of James Hunter—all part of an unforgettable experience designed for youngsters. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled adventure!
OCTOBER 11
Plaid to the Bone 10K 8:00 AM
Celebrate Scottish heritage at the “Plaid to the Bone” 10K at Pratt Park! This year features the special participation of Clan Hunter, tying directly into the concurrent historical commemorations. Once you cross the finish line, celebrate your achievement with a festive post-race feast featuring fresh donuts and warm apple cider.
Join our Heritage Tours after the Race
Falmouth Historic Cemetery & Union Church Historic Site Tours
Times TBD
Our Event Sponsors
Master of the forge - Gold Sponsors
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Falmouth Historic Cemetery & Union Church Historic Site Tours to be posted on October 10, 2026
Tour Stafford Virginia is a great starting point to create your perfect itinerary!
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