www.historicpolegreen.org

historic polegreen church foundation

2013 newsletter

Vision 2018: Reclaiming the Historic Viewshed

By the 275th Anniversary of the founding of Polegreen Church, the Polegreen Foundation will be recognized for its leadership in the historic interpretation of civil and religious freedom in Colonial through preservation of the historic site, community outreach, and educational programs. In order to achieve this goal, the Foundation will continue to preserve the historic site and commemorate the struggle for civil and religious freedom in Colonial Virginia by Rev. Samuel Davies and the Hanover Dissenters.

In 1990 the Presbytery of the James, successor to Hanover Presbytery that was founded at Polegreen in 1755, authorized the creation of a non-profit foundation to preserve, enhance and interpret the site of Polegreen Church. The Foundation’s first objective was to locate the remains of the colonial church. Archaeologists from Virginia Commonwealth University conducted the work and uncovered the remains of the church’s foundation. On the basis of the physical table of contents evidence and the easily documented record of the important events related to the Hanover Dissenters and Samuel Davies, in 1991, the U.S. National Park Vision 2018: Reclaiming the Service listed the site in the Register of National Historic Places. Historic Viewshed The Polegreen Foundation has been the grateful recipient of the advice and From the Desk of the Executive counsel of the staff of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Through them the Director services of internationally known architect Carlton Abbott were obtained. Abbott Treasurer’s Report designed the unique enhancements over the church foundations and other What is the Polegreen Reading interpretative elements around the perimeter of the park. With growing concern Room? over urban sprawl and Abbott’s recommendation, the Foundation acquired History on Stage close to 150 acres around the church site later including Studley, the birthplace. Abbott outlined a strategy to relocate housing improvements 2012 Honor Roll of Donors that encroached on the historic viewshed to vacant lots outside that viewshed. Schedule of Events Completing its restoration work by the 275th anniversary requires decisive Road to Revolution State action. The Foundation’s final preservation efforts will begin in May 2013 Heritage Trail Doubles in Size with an anticipated date of substantial completion the 150th anniversary of Welcome Our New Director of the demise of the church structure by Confederate artillery, June 1, 2014. A Operations, Beth Young! mini- capital campaign plan is underway to facilitate moving the large White House on the corner of Heatherwood Drive and Rural Point Road among other Spring Lectures improvements. If you would like to make a restricted gift to this viewshed Samuel Davies: Polegreen restoration effort, please contact the Foundation office at 804.730.3837 or email Evangelist at [email protected]. www.historicpolegreen.org historic polegreen church foundation

Reading Room

From the Desk of the Treasurer’s Report Many of you have been asking about the second silhouette Executive Director structure located at the Foundation’s archeological site. The On behalf of the Finance smaller of the two structures is known historically as “The Committee, I want to express While I am proud to have helped Polegreen realize Morris Reading Room.” On that small parcel of ground my gratitude to those who events took place in 1743 that had a revolutionary impact History on Stage significance advances in recent years, the Foundation have chosen to support our on the history of America. Four years earlier the English still has much to accomplish, so I invite you to join us on Foundation whether through evangelist, George Whitefield, preached in Bruton Parish To promote a greater understanding our exciting adventure. This year the Foundation Board individual or corporate giving. of Polegreen as the birthplace of civil Each donation regardless of Church in Williamsburg. His sermon emphasizing the need approved Vision 2018: Reclaiming the Historic Viewshed. and religious freedom, the Foundation size helps support our mission to preserve and interpret the for a vital personal religious experience was enthusiastically Details about this ambitious project are outlined in this hosted a production of the Trial of the historic site. 2012 marked continued progress in expanding and received, published, and widely read. During the previous newsletter. It is my hope that you will choose to support Spotsylvania Baptists performed by the enhancing the physical plant as well as enlarging our base of decade increasing numbers of Anglicans grew inactive the restoration of the natural environs of this historic place. Virginia Patriots on May 19th. Dozens of Foundation supporters financial supporters. Highlights of the year are many but include in their church life, and on the Sabbath gathered in their These efforts will not be mine alone. Much like the recent and first time visitors gathered inside the confines of our the completion of new hard surfaced trails, additional landscaping homes with others to study the Bible and read religious successes, generous donors, an active Board of Directors, silhouette and enjoyed a Sunday afternoon of educational and a paved parking area to increase access and improve the material like Whitefield’s sermon. Within a short time their office staff, and volunteers will make things possible. theater in open air. The production’s central theme concerned visitor experience. living rooms could not contain the crowds. This prompted the right to religious freedom in the words of Rev. Waller and a To compliment this long range real estate initiative, with the Samuel Morris, a brick-mason, to build the reading house. Upon review of the revised End of Year 2012 Financial Statements, local Spotsylvania County judge. These players of the Parson’s generous support of The Windsor Foundation, the site will the Foundation’s finances remain healthy and growing aided in As absenteeism in Anglican churches increased, dissenter Cause and the Second Virginia Convention told a story of get yet another enhancement in 2013 to include strategic part by the sale of the Strawhorn house moved in 2007 to its Patrick Henry’s defense of the Spotsylvania Baptists in 1768. lighting and more aggregate hard surfaced trails connecting location. Already this year, the Foundation sold its Brook Road numbers grew. By the time Samuel Davies arrived in Mr. Henry defended three preachers who faced imprisonment property donated by the late Mr. Harry Bluford and acquired 1747 three more reading houses had developed in other the church with the Timeline of the History of Religious for publicly proclaiming the Gospel at the Upper Spotsylvania a remaining piece of historic viewshed known as the Dobbs locations. The Anglican clergy became alarmed and Freedom. These upgrades supplement our well established Meeting House. His defense marked a significant step towards educational programs. property near our site. Work is underway to place a historic complained bitterly to civil authorities in Williamsburg, easement on that 2 acre lot. charging the dissenters with disturbing the peace. religious liberty as defined in the Declaration of Rights (1776) So as the site comes alive this year, either with blossoming and later in the Virginia’s Statute for Religious Freedom (1786). Polegreen ended the fiscal year with total net assets of dogwood trees, the buzz of the traveling public, or back- Ten days before Samuel Davies arrived in Williamsburg to $5,105,237.17, marking a 5% increase over the prior year. hoes and hydraulic house moving trailers, I invite you to petition for a license to preach, the Governor of the Virginia Financial planning in a slow-growth economy requires a colony issued the following directive that was widely visit this special corner of history. The Foundation again conservative approach to investments. We believe our money distributed. News from the Annual Meeting plans an active 2013 program schedule with a little managers at Davenport and Company have positioned us well something for everyone. Already hundreds visited the site for these dynamic and unpredictable times. Our overall positive On February 16, 2013, the Board of Directors met in the for a community Easter sunrise service hosted by area position represents confirms this fact. I wish to offer a special A PROCLAMATION Polegreen visitor center and foundation office building to congregations, our annual National Day of Prayer event and thank you to Board Members Bob Giles and Everett Reveley for Whereas It is represented to me that several Itinerant consider Foundation business. Each year officers and new Preachers have lately Crept into the Colony and that the History on Stage with the Virginia Patriots. If you have never their special guidance. directors are selected. Suffering these Corrupters of our faith and true Religion visited Polegreen or if you haven’t been lately, the historic The 2013 budget, approved in February by the Board, continues do to propagate their Shocking Doctrines may be of On behalf of the Executive Committee, Mr. Jay Johnston site is located in eastern Hanover County, 12 miles from POaL strategicEG focusRE onE educationalN programs. Spring and summer PmischievousOLE Gconsequences,REEN I have, therefore, thought presented the following slate of officers for the upcoming year: downtown Richmond, Virginia, at 6411 Heatherwood Drive, programs including educational outreach have greatly expanded fit, by and with the Advice of his Majesty’s Council, to under the leadership of Margaret Hancock, a master’s level issueThis reportthe lists Proclamation gifts and pledges received January strictly 1, 2011 through requiring December 31, 2011. all If we Magistrateshave Robert Bluford, Jr., President Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116. I look forwardTreasurer’s to seeing Annual you Report Resource 2011 Honor Roll of Donors made an error or omission, please accept our apologies and notify Missy Minton at 804.730.3837. at Polegreen! Thank you for your support during gradecurator in parking, who trails has and added landscap more- creativity to our establishedGOVERNMENT efforts. Mr. & Mrs. Davidand & Kirsten officers Mr. to& Mrs. discourage Ellis M. West andMr. prohibit, & Mrs. Lloyd Bostianas far as they these challenging economic times. ing to complement our new visitor Development News Hanover County, Virginia Bradley Mr. & Mrs. Finn V. Jensen Mr. & Mrs. Mark E. Wilcox F. Claiborne (Jay) Johnston, Jr., Vice President & Secretary Each donation helps support the mis- center and office building. Grant Awarded in 2011 and 2012 Mr. & Mrs. Davidlegally W. Fuller can,Mr. all & Mrs. Itinerant J.E. Causey DavisPreachers, Mr. & Mrs. whether Mark Greenough New-Light FOUNDATIONS Mr. & Mrs. F. Claiborne Mr. & Mrs. James Tyndall Mr. & Mrs. Melvin H. Hughes sion of preserving our historic site OurOur success success would wouldnot be possible not be possibleThe Foundation without wishes to thank a dedicated M&T board,Dominion Foundation Johnston, Jr. Presbyterians, Mr. & Mrs.Moravians, John D. Mitchell or Methodists,Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Rhudy from Teaching, and interpreting the contributions of withoutstaff aand dedicated a legion board, staffof volunteers and a Bank, Hanover and Countyother Government, supporters the like M&Tyou. Bank Mr. & Mrs. Frank B. Atkinson Mr. & Mrs. John Krebbs Mr. & Mrs. Robert C. Birney David W. Fuller, Treasurer the men and women at this special legion of volunteers and other sup- Virginia Foundation for Humanities, the Robins Foundation Mr. & Mrs. HarryPreaching, J. Warthen III Mr. or & holdingMrs. John T. Stevensonany meeting Mr. & Mrs. in Robertthis L.Colony. Branner And Virginia Foundation for Mr. & Mrs. R.J. Klotz, Jr. place. Financial contributions of all portersWe hope like you. you We hopewill you visit will often Dominion and Foundation,become the an Robins ambassador Foun- for Mr. & Mrs. Hunter B. Keck Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Tate sizes matter and we are so privileged dation, The Pauley Family Foundation, the Humanities Mr. & Mrs. Kenneththat M. allPerry Persons Mr. & Mrs. be Richard enjoyed M. Hultz to beMr. &aiding Mrs. Ronald and Shiflett assisting in and the following slate of directors to serve a three-year term, visit often and become an ambassa- and Richard and Caroline T. Gwathmey IN-KIND SERVICES Mr. & Mrs. Miles Cary Mr. & Mrs. Robert E. Hill Mr. & Mrs. Rudy B. Burgess to have a wonderfully supportive dorPolegreen for Polegreen to to others.others. Johnston, Jr. that purpose.Mr. & Mrs. Robert Williams, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Scott Schoenwiesner group of people. Memorial Trust for their recent investments Boy Scout Troop 503 effective immediately: David W. Fuller, in our educational program. Each of these Mechanicsville, Virginia Mr. & Mrs. Richard L. Beadles Mr. & Mrs. Tommy P. Baer Mr. & Mrs. Stanley C. Tucker Mr. & Mrs. Robert B. Giles Mr. & Mrs. Walter Hempfling Mr. & Mrs. T.W. King You will be pleased to know that M.B.A. organizations seeks opportunities to im- City Wide Decorators, Inc. Given under my Hand at Williamsburg this third day of the Foundation continued its strong David W. Fuller Dr. Farrah Stone Graham Mr. & Mrs. Robert F. Strohm Mr. & Mrs. William E. Thompson Mr. & Mrs. Walter D. Tucker prove the lives of Virginians through grants Mr. & Mrs. Sumpter T. Priddy, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. William E. Winfrey Mr. & Mrs. William H. Winfrey David Fuller, Harry Warthen III, Bob Strohm, Jane Peters growth trend in 2011. HPCF ended Treasurer, Historic to nonprofit organizations like Polegreen. Hanover Ruritan Club April, 1747 and in the xxth year of his Majesty’s Reign. PolegreenTreasurer, Church Historic Polegreen Church Foundation, Mr. G. Everett B. Reveley Mr. & Mrs. William G. Thompson Mr. Andrew Morehead the fiscal year 2011 in the black with These strategic philanthropic investments Mr. James L. Mays Mr. & Mrs. Carlton Sturges Abbott Mr. Charles Cheek total net assets of $ 4,838,441.50. FoundationChairman, Financewill fully Committee fund our educational outreach MEMORIAL GIFTS Mr. Robert B. Giles Mr. Frederick Kraft Mr. Demas Boudreaux The Board unanimously approved the slate of officers and Sincerely, Our overall positive position repre- Chairman, position for 2011 along with technology In Memory of Dorothy Sneed Mr. Robert BlufordWilliam III GoochMr. John E. Ensign Mr. Jeffrey M. Gallagher sents sound investment strategies by Finance Committee upgrades to enhance the visitor experi- Mr. William F. Cooper Mrs. Margaret R. Thomas Mr. Joseph Dalton Mr. Louis Malon This selected financial information is part of the completed compilation of Mr.financials & Mrs. Dennis Hathaway God Save theMr. Josiah King Rowe directors as presented. our money managers at Davenport ence. As a result, Margaret Hancock will be Ms. Barbara-lyn Belcher Mr. Rudy Burgess Christopher K. Peace, Esq. Thisprepared selected by financial Charles information E. Walton & Co.,working P.C. with Copies students of andthese life-long reports and our FormFranklin 990 Federal Savings Bank Ms. C. Jan Swearingen Mr. Richard McClintock Mr. Stephen Gerloff and Company as well as the care of Mr. & Mrs. A. Brent Carter Ms. Lila Irby Mr. Sean Davis Mr. William C. Ellen isare part available of the completed upon request. compilation Please learners contact from the across HPCF the regionoffice with at prima804-730-3837.- Executive Director the Board of Directors for cost con- of financials prepared by Charles E. ry sources and hands-on activities on site. Mrs. Virginia Carpenter Ms. Martha D. Newell Mr. William Dent Mrs. Aimee Marx trols. Financial planning in a slow- In Memory of Willie Hunley Ms. Rebecca Bowers-Lanier Ms. Carolyn Borders Mrs. Elizabeth Ramsey Walton & Co., P.C. Copies of these Mrs. Elizabeth Hunley Richmond Metropolitan Ms. Dorothy Wingfield Mrs. Joan Losen growth economy requires a conser- reports and our Form 990 are avail- vative approach to investments. We In Memory of Ed & Ruth Convention Center & Visitor Ms. Ginger Stanley Mrs. Laura Crank 2013 NEWSLETTER able upon request. Please contact the Shaver Bureau Ms. Helen Yates Mrs. Lorraine Abernathy believe this course is the wise and HPCF office at 804-730-3837. Mr. David M. Shaver Timmons Group Ms. Janet H. Tinker Mrs. Newton Webb accepted standard in these times. VOLUNTEERS Patrick Henry Circle Ms. Linwood Wilkes Ms. Barbara Mucklow Upon review of the End of Year 2011 honoring gifts of $250-499 Ms. Martha S. Wagoner Ms. Catherine Lawrence Gaynelle & Eugene Atkinson Ms. Maxine Lane Ms. Cleopatra Coleman Financial Statements HPCF finances Tom Carlton Dr. Karl E. Peace Ms. Rebecca K.Cooley Ms. Deborah A. Streicker are healthy despite the nationally Janet Kinker Fairmount Christian Church Ms. Sallie Buck Ms. Elizabeth Davis anemic economic recovery. Operat- Mary Lambert Mr. & Mrs. David B. Pahren Ms. Wilana Madden Ms. Elizabeth Kostelny Debbie Morano Mr. & Mrs. David L. Camper Sadler & Whitehead Ms. Elizabeth Moorhouse ing revenues increased in 2011 by Janet Moncure Mr. & Mrs. Peter M. Rippe $54,325. This positive development Architects, PLC Ms. Jane A. Clark Beth Young Mr. & Mrs. Richard Wagoner The Honorable & Mrs. John H. Hager Ms. Jennifer Scott is attributable to new donors, greater Riley Young Mr. Sidney Beasley IV West Point Pharmacy, Inc. Ms. Kathryn Moran success in grant writing, and invest- THE ANNUAL FUND Mrs. Frances Mack Ms. Krista Norrington If you would like to make a gift to Polegreen, Road to Revolution State Friends of Dissenters ments from our restricted educational Individuals & Companies honoring gifts up to $99 Ms. Margaret Barlow funds. please visit www.GiveRichmond.org. Heritage Trail Ms. Nancy Eberle Statement of Financial Position The Samuel Davies Society St. James's Episcopal Church Chantilly Chapter NSDAR In addition to giving directly through honoring gifts of $500 + Ms. Sarah Hayes The 2012 budget, recently approved our website, GiveRichmond provides The Honorable & Mrs. First Baptist Church Ms. Susan Frost Assets Bon Secours Health System, Inc. by the Board, includes a strategic fo- a searchable database that provides Christopher K. Peace Mr & Mrs. R.E. Peroe Ms. Susan Spage Bryan & Jordan Consulting Mr. & Mrs. Alan B. Kinker cus on educational programs. Spring Current Assets 51,069.49 programmatic, financial, governance Samuel Morris Ms. Virginia Stanley LLC Meeting House Club Mr. & Mrs. Charles B. Smithers Preservation Virginia and summer programs including edu- Fixed Assets (Land & Property) 3,308,907.66 and management information about Civil War Preservation Trust Mr. & Mrs. Edward W. Alexander cational outreach will expand under the charitable organizations serving the honoring gifts of $100-249 The Honorable Frank Other Assets 1,478,464.35 Daniel & Company, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. F. Meriwether D. Hargrove, Sr. the leadership of Margaret Hancock, Greater Richmond region, including Dr. & Mrs. Norman J. Marks Dr & Mrs. William Phipps Fowlkes, Jr. Total Assets 4,838,441.50 Southside Virginia. GiveRichmond Dr. Connolly C. Gamble Valentine Richmond History a master’s level educator who will Dr. & Mrs. Robert Bluford, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. George M. Stephens III Center allows you to also give of your time EVB Mr. & Mrs. Norman K. Sulser Mr. & Mrs. Harry F. Hayes bring vitality and creativity to our Liabilities and Equity through the website. You will find this Marks Family Dentistry Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Mills Mr. & Mrs. J. Boyd Spencer Thank you established efforts. This summer will Minton Total Equity 4,838,441.50 information organized in the form of a Marquee LLC Mr. & Mrs. John E. Krebbs for making a difference! also witness another enhancement of Mr. & Mrs. Robert F. Strohm Mr. & Mrs. Ed Wysor Mr. & Mrs. John Hubbard Total Liabilities and Net Assets 4,838,441.50 nonprofit “portrait.” The site is free and Mr. & Mrs. Edward Adams the physical plant including an up- available to the public. Mr. & Mrs. John S. Rose

HISTORIC POLEGREEN CHURCH FOUNDATION HISTORIC POLEGREEN CHURCH FOUNDATION www.historicpolegreen.org historic polegreen church foundation

Hanover Tavern and Historic 3rd Annual Founder’s Schedule of Events Polegreen Church sites Luncheon 2012 Honor Roll of Donors Hanover Tavern and Historic Polegreen Church partner Friday, November 15th Special events and educational programs are to bring educators a unique professional development 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Mr. James Robertson, Jr. Mrs. Nancy Brown Mrs. Susan Frost made possible by the generous support of experience. Educators participate in interactive guided Grants Wilton House Museum Polegreen’s individual donors, Board of Directors tours of the two historic sites, complete hands-on County of Hanover Mr. William Cooper Mrs. Wilana Madden Mrs. Susan Nochta activities including a simulated archeological dig, see an 215 S Wilton Rd Richmond, VA 23226 and grants provided by Dominion, The Gwathmey Dominion Resources Foundation The Honorable and Mrs. John H. The Hon. Frank D. Hargrove, Sr. Ms. Sarah Fore interpretive performance by Patrick Henry, and discover Memorial Trust, Richard S. Reynolds Foundation, Polegreen’s Founder, Dr. Bob Bluford, was recently named Hager The McShin Foundation Webster Integrated Technologies SOL-based lessons that bring history to life. This two-day the Virginian of the Year by the Virginia Press Association, Richard S. Reynolds Foundation The Pauley Family Foundation, and The Robins institute is designed for K-12 educators and suitable so please join us as we continue to honor his many The Gwathmey Memorial Trust West Point Pharmacy Foundation. Samuel Morris Meeting In Memory of Harry M. for recertification. A reasonable $30 fee includes all contributions to the historic site. Dr. Bud Robertson graced The Pauley Family Foundation instruction, materials, and lunches provided by the House Club Friends of Dissenters Bluford us with an amazing report on “God and Country: Religion The Robins Foundation Hanover Tavern and Pub. Space is limited to provide an in the Civil War” at last fall’s gathering. This year’s special Citywide Decorators (Randy Civil War Encampment with Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kinker Mr. and Mrs. Ed Alexander intimate educational experience and pre-registration by guest speaker will entertain and enlighten guests at this The Roller-Bottimore Foundation Wingfield) Artillery Displays Mr. and Mrs. Allen Wimett Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Warthen III June 1 to [email protected] is required. annual benefit to support Polegreen’s land conservation, Dr. and Mrs. Edwin Wysor Saturday, June 15th environmental stewardship and educational efforts. Samuel Davies Society Mr. and Mrs. Brian Regrut Mr. and Mrs. Hunter Keck Dr. and Mrs. Ellis M. West 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Bon Secours Health System, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hodnett Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spicer Lawn Chairs & Liberty Free Dr. and Mrs. Norman J. Marks A local living history unit which has faithfully partnered Concert Series Holiday Illumination Davenport and Company The Hon. and Mrs. Jackson Ward Mr. and Mrs. Sumpter Priddy Friends of Chris Peace with the Foundation in an effort to maintain the Dr. and Mrs. Robert Bluford, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John Krebbs Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jefferson III appearance of Polegreen’s newly enhanced site will offer Thursday, July 11th Friday, December 6th Mr. and Mrs. Henry C. Spalding, Jr. Macauley and Burtch, P.C. Mr. and Mrs. John Seelinger Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Walker several free programs for tourists, civil war enthusiasts 5:30 – 8:30 pm 5:00 – 6:30 pm Mr. and Mrs. Irving Driscoll and families. These uniformed volunteers tell the story Mr. and Mrs. David B. Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Bostian Mr. and Mrs. Tom Carlton Rattlesnake Creek - Rattlesnake Creek is a four-piece Polegreen kicks off the holiday season Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Causey Davis of the Civil War soldier in the Virginia Theater between bluegrass band from Richmond. They share a love of with its grand illumination of the Mr. and Mrs. F. Claiborne Johnston, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Greenough Mr. and Mrs. Tom Rennie 1861 & 1865. One artillery unit that they often portray Mr. and Mrs. John Hardy Willson playing traditional bluegrass music, with a few twists and silhouette structure. Join us for the Mr. and Mrs. Frank B. Atkinson Mr. and Mrs. Ormand Young Mr. John Sellinger is the Richmond Howitzers, who on June 1, 1864 were turns along the way. lighting of the church, as well as a Mr. and Mrs. John Krebbs forced to fire on the church after union sharpshooters Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Warthen III Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Moran Mr. Otho Mitterer performance by Colonial fife and drums, a sing-along with Mr. and Mrs. John Mitchell claimed its position. Today, the modern gun crew of the Thursday, July 25th holiday carolers, hot cider and more! Mr. and Mrs. Hunter Keck The Hon. and Mrs. R.J Klotz Mr. Stephen Gerloff Richmond Howitzers is giving back what the original gun 5:30 – 8:30 pm Mr. and Mrs. John Rose Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Perry Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Rhudy Mr. William Cooper crew was forced to take away. The public is invited to visit Test of Time - The Test of Time features experienced and Mr. and Mrs. John Stevenson Mr. and Mrs. Miles Cary Johnston, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Rev Starke Cauthorn Mrs. Jane List the Church site which figured prominently in the Civil versatile professionals playing a mix of R&B, Pop, Classic Corporate sponsorships are available by Mr. and Mrs. Norman Sulser War story of Rural Plains and offers interpretation about Rock and Blues/Jazz. A dynamic female vocalist, Kathy contacting the Foundation office. For more Mr. and Mrs. Richard Beadles Dr. and Mrs. Robert Birney Mrs. Susan Nochta Mr. and Mrs. Peter E. Broadbent, Jr. these events. Camp opens at 10 am, the last presentation Spacek, fronts the band, singing anything from Billy information about these opportunities, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bluford III Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spicer Ms. Becky Cooley begins at 2 pm. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rippe Holiday to Joss Stone to Bonnie Raitt to Janis Joplin. please contact 804-730-3837 and visit www. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Giles Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williams Ms. Sarah Fore historicpolegreen.org. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hultz Mr. and Mrs. Robert Strohm Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Shiflett National Park Service Richard S. Reynolds Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hill In Honor of Dr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jefferson III Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Rennie Historian Robert E.L. Krick Foundation Lecture Mr. and Mrs. Roger Dickinson Robert Bluford, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. W. Taylor Reveley III Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Winfrey Lecture The Hon. and Mrs. Sean Davis Mr. and Mrs. David Camper Thursday, September 19th Featured New Event Mr. Dennis Brown Mr. and Mrs. Walter Tucker Sunday, June 23rd Mr. and Mrs. Sumpter Priddy Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Rhudy 12:00 pm Mr. G. Everett B. Reveley Mr. and Mrs. Ed Alexander 2:00 pm Library of Virginia for 2013 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Walker Mrs. Dorothy Wingfield Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carlton In Memory of George Krick has lived or worked on Civil War battlefields Mr. Billy Ford of Freedomhouse.org will address the Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hempfling almost continuously since 1972. He grew up on challenges that religious minorities experience around GrowRVA Farmer’s Market Mrs. Jane W. Peters Mr. Andrew Cortez Wagoner Mr. and Mrs. William Dent the Chancellorsville battlefield near Fredericksburg, the world. He will present reflections upon his 2013 trip sponsored by Colonial Farm Mrs. Lila Irby Mr. A.W. Nuckols Mrs. Martha Wagoner Mr. and Mrs. William Hill and graduated from Mary Washington College in to Vienna for a United Nations conference on religious Credit Mrs. Margaret Thomas Mr. C.B. Gibson Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wagoner Fredericksburg with a degree in history. He has worked freedom. Refreshments are included. Dr. and Mrs. William Thompson Mrs. Martha D. Newell Mr. Glenn Thomason in various historical capacities at several battlefields, Every Tuesday, June 18th through Mr. A.W. Bennett including Custer Battlefield in Montana, and Manassas Mr. Stephen Gerloff In Memory of her Mrs. Nancy W. Peters Battlefield. Since 1991 he has been an historian on the Homeschool day August 6th Mr. Imad Damaj husband, Sanford J. Mrs. Deborah Streicker staff at Richmond National Battlefield Park. Mr. Krick is Wednesday, October 2nd 4:00 – 7:00 pm The Patrick Henry Mr. Joseph Dalton Peters 2013 marks a new partnership Mrs. Elizabeth Davis widely published on Civil War topics. His first book was 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Circle Mr. Joseph H. Doak Mrs. Nancy W. Peters a unit history (The Fortieth Virginia Infantry). In 2003 with GrowRVA that brings an often Mrs. Jane Brooks In partnership with Preservation Virginia’s Scotchtown, Dr. Dianne Reynolds-Cane Mr. Josiah Rowe the University of North Carolina Press published his requested farmer’s market to Hanover Mrs. Jane Clark biographical register of the Army of Northern Virginia’s Polegreen hosts its second annual Homeschool Day. County. The market will be held Mr. Otho Mitterer Bequests Dr. Karl Peace Mrs. Jane List staff officers (Staff Officers in Gray). This is joint program This free educational offering, geared towards students Tuesday afternoons from four o’clock EVB Bank Mr. Richard McClintock The Estate of Harry M. Bluford with the Hanover County Historical Society elementary through high school level, offers a glimpse to seven o’clock at the Historic Mrs. Joan Losen into the rich history of Polegreen and its most famous Mr. and Mrs. David Camper Mr. Tommy Baer Polegreen Church site. The market, which kicks off on Mrs. Marion Jones Errors and Omissions visitor - Patrick Henry. Participants will take a guided June 18 for a ten-week run ending August 6, will host Mr. and Mrs. David Fuller Mrs. Carole Farnham Summer Teacher Institute Mrs. Marion Richeson With regret, the following were tour of the historic site, try their hand at Colonial games, a multitude of vendors and feature local produce from Mrs. Elizabeth Ramsey see a demonstration of Colonial weaving, participate Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Albert Mrs. Marshall Johnson omitted from the 2011 Honor Roll of Hanover County. Market-goers will also be encouraged June 24th & 25th in an archeological dig, and more! Registration is Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wagoner Mrs. Frances Mack Donors 9:00 am – 3:00 pm to walk around and enjoy the historic site, including the Mrs. Nancy Eberle required by September 1 by emailing education@ silhouette structure of the church and the Timeline of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Tennent Mrs. Hazel Hubbard Mrs. Patricia Clement Mrs. Jenny Cote historicpolegreen.org. Religious Freedom. Mrs. Helen Yates Mr. Cameron Wick Mrs. Peggy Witherspoon Mr. and Mrs. W. Taylor Reveley III Mrs. Martha Wagoner

2013 NEWSLETTER historic polegreen church foundation

Samuel Davies: challenging. The great British preacher upon you, and hurry you out of your Martin Lloyd Jones considered Davies the present condition, as the angel did Lot out Road to Revolution Welcome Our New Williamsburg and headed to the University Polegreen Evangelist of Virginia.” finest preacher America ever produced. of Sodom. [E]scape for thy life, look not State Heritage Trail Director of Operations, Ian Murray’s classic study of American behind thee—escape to Jesus Christ, lest On Tuesday, April 23rd, architect Carlton Dr. Roger Schultz is Dean revivalism begins with a chapter on thou be consumed!” 7 Doubles in Size Beth Young! Abbott brought this breadth of experience of the College of Arts and 3 Davies. Davies was vigorously evangelistic. He and talent back to Polegreen for our Sciences at Liberty University Davies could easily capture the attention pressed hearers with the invitation of The Road to Revolution State Since the beginning of the first annual Preservation Week event. He Samuel Davies (1723-1761) was of his audience. As one historian put Christ and danger of turning away. One Heritage Trail consortium, year Beth Young has been educated a devoted group about the master remarkable Christian leader. 1 The Father it, “His sermons had a seamless unity, sermon closes with this passionate appeal: joined by state commerce and Polegreen’s Director of planning of the Polegreen site as well of Presbyterianism in Virginia, he was with emotion and reason flowing “And oh! Sinners. . . Alas! Is the ministry of tourism officials and related Operations. Beth is a retired as the design of the silhouette structure. the primary force in organizing Hanover simultaneously to series of excited the gospel a useless institution with regard hospitality industry, announced elementary school teacher Mr. Abbott also commented on the site’s Presbytery in 1755. He was an advocate of climaxes. The man could modulate to you? Will you resist my benevolent a major expansion of the of 32 years and is a former volunteer at our contributions to the modern preservation religious freedom in Virginia, leading the Road to Revolution Heritage Trail doubling site. She is married to Tracy Young, president movement. his voice into a great variety of tones, hand, when I would stretch it forth to pluck the size and scope of the program. The of EPIC International Inc., a local importer cause of dissenters in a state dominated booming hushed, lyrical, penitent, you out of the burning? Well, my friends, I announcement which took place at the and exporter of water treatment equipment. In May, the Richard S. Reynolds Foundation by Anglicans. Patrick Henry, the greatest frightened. He could enact, right before the cannot help it. If you will perish, if you are State Capitol on February 14, 2013 included She has one daughter, Ayron, who was Lecture at the Virginia Center for orator of the Revolutionary generation, congregation’s eyes, the majestic scenes obstinately set upon it, I have only this to the following trail sites Mount Vernon, recently graduated from the University Architecture was titled Collective Memory: learned eloquence first-hand from hearing of resurrection and judgment so that his say, that your poor minister will weep in Gunston Hall, James Monroe’s Birthplace, of Virginia and now teaches Latin with Approaches for Understanding the Social Davies speak. Davies closed his short listeners could see and feel the cosmic secret for you, and drop his tears upon you Stratford Hall, Montpelier, Monticello, Henrico County Schools. Beth was born in Functions of Public and presented by but brilliant career as the President of drama unfold.” 4 as you are falling into ruin from between Dr. Melanie Buffington who explored the College of New Jersey (Princeton), 8 Ash Lawn-Highland, Scotchtown, Hanover Ohio, but has lived in Hanover County since In The Imperative of Preaching: A Rhetoric his hands.” ways to understand the potential social succeeding Jonathan Edwards. County Courthouse, Hanover Tavern, Rural 1978. In her spare time she enjoys traveling of Sacred Theology, John Carrick analyzes I am amazed at the power of Davies Plains, Polegreen Church, St. John’s Church, internationally, sailing on the family sailboat functions of historical monuments and Davies was an excellent example of great preachers from the past, including to reach people today. Students in my John Marshall House, Wilton, Colonial from Deltaville, and spending time with memorials. Examples beyond the Lee New Light Presbyterianism during the Davies. 5 For Carrick, preaching involves graduate seminar, having read one of Williamsburg, Yorktown, Hampden-Sydney family and friends. She is active in Fairfield Monument and Shoes on the Danube Bank, Great Awakening. Trained in revival four rhetorical moods: the indicative (a Davies’s sermons, agreed that he was a College, and Red Hill-Patrick Henry National Presbyterian Church in Mechanicsville where including the “Gum Wall” and the Historic Presbyterianism and earnest Calvinism, statement of fact or proclamation of truth), most compelling preacher. One young Memorial. she has served as both an elder and deacon Polegreen Church site, further explore how his entire ministry reflected an evangelical exclamative (a passionate emphasis), woman said she had never read anything and plays in the Hand Bell Choir. Her love monuments both shape and are shaped by “This project, which began in 2007, urgency at bringing sinners to Jesus Christ interrogative (questions for the listeners), like it, and said she’d spent her study time of history and the Church unite perfectly at the collective memory. has exemplified what is possible when and eternal life. It is remarkable that the and imperative (issuing a command or brushing tears from her eyes as she read Polegreen. government and the private sector partner. youthful Davies, sent to Virginia as a newly an appeal). Davies employed all these, Davies’ two hundred year old sermon on Presbyterian History With zero state dollars and small annual ordained evangelist in 1747, was able to but especially the indicative-imperative the glories of Christ’s Kingdom. 9 Donated to the Foundation accomplish so much is such little time. The dues from members, this consortium has Spring Lectures construction, which was essential to gospel Church historian Hugh Oliphant Old claims Polegreen Church was the anchor point for leveraged federal grants to establish the trail On May 16, Board preaching. of Samuel Davies that “the American signage throughout the Commonwealth,” Members David Bradley Davies’ incredible ministry in Virginia. 2 Mark St. John Davies used the indicative-imperative pulpit has never known a greater orator.” said Delegate Chris Peace (Hanover). and Jane Peters present Erickson wrote Recent studies of Davies emphasize his in a famous sermon about the horrible 10 Historic Polegreen was blessed to be the the Foundation with an During the 2012 General Assembly, HB 1185 in a recent Daily multiple roles and contributions. He was an Lisbon earthquake of 1755. “The Religious home ministry of this outstanding Christian amazing history of First expanded potential for new sites on the Press article that (L-R): David Bradley, Jane early American Patriot (during the French Improvement of the Late Earthquakes,” leader. Curator of Education Margaret Peters and Bob Giles Presbyterian Church - heritage trail from those celebrating Patrick Hancock introduces Mr. Abbott “After nearly 90 and Indian War), a Christian Ambassador (a is taken from a text in Isaiah 24:18- Richmond. Polegreen Board Member Jay Henry and his role in liberating Virginia from award-winning structures and dozens of mediating force in Virginia and a trans- 20 -- “The foundations of earth do Johnston and Advisory Board Member Jack Colonial rule to all those significant to men solo art shows, Williamsburg architect Atlantic Presbyterian representative), a shake.” Davies notes that earthquakes Sadler helped to author the book. 1. See George William Pilcher, Samuel Davies: Apostle of Dissent in Colonial and artist Carlton Abbott has carved out Slave Evangelist (working with Virginia are one of God’s temporal judgments Virginia (Knoxville: University of Tennessee Press, 1971) and William Whitley, and women who played a role in liberating “Samuel Davies,” Virginia Encyclopedia (http://www.encyclopediavirginia. Virginia and establishing the United States a commanding reputation. Few talents slaves), and a remarkable Poet and Hymn- -- “extraordinary executioners of his org/davies_samuel_1723-1761). Newsletter Gift Shop 2. Historic Polegreen Foundation (http://www.historicpolegreen.org/story/). can match the breadth of his work, which of America. “The Road to Revolution is a writer. This essay focuses on his rhetorical vengeance,” used to “rouse a slumbering 3. Iain Murray, Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American ranges from accomplished drawing, Need last minute gifts? Grab Evangelicalism, 175-1858 (Carlisle, Pennsylvania: The Banner of Truth Trust, great example of the rich history that draws skills as a preacher, the work for which world” and “convince us that we are 1994), 3. visitors to Virginia,” said Rita McClenny, painting and mixed-media sculptures to a Polegreen ornament! These Davies would want to be remembered. 4. Henry Mayer, A Son of Thunder: Patrick Henry and the American not beyond the reach of that desolating Revolution (N.Y.: Grove Press, 1991), 37. landmark museums, visitor centers and wooden treasures are available for 6 president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Davies was a magnificent preacher. He judgment.” These were designed to drive 5. John Carrick, The Imperative of Preaching: A Theology of Sacred Rhetoric other high-profile structures. Fewer still just $10 apiece. Call 730-3837 or (Carlisle, Pennsylvania: The Banner of Truth Trust, 2002). Corporation. us to Christ and to that eternal city which 6. Davies, Sermons, III:261. email admin@historicpolegreen. combined the dignity and learning of have the creative vision and energy it has a firm and unshakable foundation. 7. Ibid, 277. an ordained minister with the zeal of an 8. Samuel Davies, Sermons of the Rev. Samuel Davies (Morgan, For more information about the Trail, visit takes to stand out in virtually every one org to get yours today! itinerant evangelist. His sermons were ”There is not safety but in Jesus Christ,” Pennsylvania: Soli Deo Gloria, 1995) III: 277-278. http://www.roadtorevolution.com/. Social of these endeavors. No one could have 9. Samuel Davies, “The Mediatorial Kingdom and Glories of Jesus Christ Hardbound copies of Living on the Davies concludes, “Away to him, therefore; [1756],” in Political Sermons of the American Founding Era, 1730-1805, ed. media is found at www.facebook.com/ rooted in scripture, were theologically Ellis Sandoz (Indianapolis: Liberty Press, 1991), 183-206. predicted such success, however, when - Borders of Eternity by Dr. Bob Bluford let me lay the hand of friendly violence roadtorevolutionva and www.twitter.com/ sophisticated and were personally 10. Hughes Oliphant Old, The Reading and Preaching of the Scriptures in after an early academic stumble - Abbott are also available at the site for a gift the Worship of the Church (Grand Rapids, Eerdmans, 1998), I:13. rdtorevolution. graduated from James Blair High School in of $25. 2013 NEWSLETTER Historic Polegreen Church Foundation P.O. Box 2111 Mechanicsville, VA 23116-0011

Snapshot of Polegreen History As one of the first meeting houses established during the “Great Host your Event Awakening,” Presbyterian dissenters from the state Anglican at Polegreen Church worshipped here including a young Patrick Henry and his mother. Henry attributed his great oratory to the influence of Rev. Did you know that you could Samuel Davies who led the Polegreen congregation from 1747 – rent the Polegreen site for your 1759. On June 1, 1864, a Confederate artillery round destroyed the special event? Do you need a Meeting House, which was built in 1755. World-renown architect Carlton Abbott conference room for that important designed the current symbolic silhouette structure to sit along original foundations meeting? Getting married? based on 1862 sketches from a Union soldier. The Foundation is currently Consider Polegreen for a serene recognized for leadership in the preservation of the site, community outreach and setting to befit any occasion. From a rich variety of educational programs. More information can be found about these partial to full site rentals, the events as well as site rental at www.historicpolegreen.org. Polegreen calendar is busy with weddings, meetings and group Mission Statement tours. This demand means you will occasionally find a “Site Closed” To preserve the historic Polegreen Church site and commemorate sign for a private event. the struggle for civil and religious freedom in Colonial Virginia by Rev. Samuel Davies and the Hanover Dissenters. You can access our Facility Use Policy on our Vision Statement website and by clicking on By 2018, the 275th Anniversary of the founding of Polegreen Church, the “Host Your Special Event Foundation will be recognized for its leadership in the historic interpretation of at Polegreen” from the www. civil and religious freedom in Colonial Virginia through preservation of the site, historicpolegreen.org homepage. community outreach and educational programs.

Board of Directors Dr. Virgie M. Binford Mark Greenough, Virginia State Mailing Address Robert Bluford, Jr., President Dr. Charles F. Bryan, Jr. Capitol P.O. Box 2111 F. Claiborne Johnston, Jr., Vice Hugh Gouldthorpe Jennifer Hurst, Preservation Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116 President & Secretary Ivor Massey, Jr. Virginia Physical Address David W. Fuller, Treasurer Martha D. Newell June Lehman, St. Catherine’s School 6411 Heatherwood Drive Robert Bluford III Sumpter T. Priddy, Jr. Dr. Jamelle Wilson, Hanover Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116 David B. Bradley W. Taylor Reveley III County Public Schools Roger F. Dickinson Dr. R. Jackson Sadler Phone Robert B. Giles Dr. James G. Somerville Executive Director 804.730.3837 Kenneth M. Perry Professor C. Jan Swearingen Christopher K. Peace G. Everett B. Reveley Email Robert F. Strohm Education Advisory Director of [email protected] Harry J. Warthen III Council Operations Dr. Mathias Bergman, Randolph- Beth Young www.facebook.com/Polegreen Advisory Board Macon College Tommy P. Baer Dr. William Bosher, Virginia Curator of @Polegreen on Twitter Education Richard E. Bartell Commonwealth University Jenny Cote, Historical Author Margaret Hancock