The Virginia Historical Society hosts the Banner Lectures they host throughout the year, providing in-depth explorations of varying historical figures and events. This summer features lectures on a great list of upcoming topics:
The US Marines at Belleau Wood, 1918-Thursday June 14 at noon
Patrick Mooney will lead a discussion about the bloodiest battle American soldiers had faced since the Civil War. The Battle at Belleau Wood demonstrated the American Expeditionary Force’s tenacity and perseverance when it came to stifling the German offensive against the Russians and turning the tide of the war.
The Civil War at a Crossroads: The Seven Days-Tuesday June 19 at 5:30pm
This lecture tells the story of a Virginia divided in two by advancing Union forces and defending Confederate armies in the spring of 1862. Edward L. Ayers will present the two sides in conflict and the impact the atmosphere of war had on Virginia civilians.
John Randolph of Roanoke- Thursday June 28 at noon
A biographical lecture on the momentous life of the father of Southern conservatism details this Virginia Congressman’s tenure as well as public feuds and disputes with every president from John Adams to Andrew Jackson. David Johnson will speak on the life of John Randolph of Roanoke and his exploits as a politician and pioneer in defense of Southern agrarian culture.
More Important than Gettysburg- Wednesday July 11 at 5:30 pm
The end of the Civil has sparked controversy and debate on almost all levels of social, politcal, ethical, and economical factors contributing to the “turning point” of the war. Dr. Gary W. Gallagher will demonstrate key moments in the war that ultimately led to the North’s victories.
The Queen and the USA: Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee in America- Thursday July 16 at noon
The Queen of England has always been a figure of respect in the United States, despite the fact that independence from Great Britain was a long and brutal conflict. On her three visits to the Commonwealth of Virginia, she has been greeted with deal of honor and respect by American citizens. With illustrations from his new book The Queen and the USA H. Edward Mann will discuss the special relationship between the Queen of England and the United States and especially Virginia.
Edward Coles: Crusade Against Slavery- Thursday August 2 at noon
This lecture will focus on the efforts of a wealthy tobacco plantation owner to end slavery in the United States. Edward Coles inherited his family’s successful plantation and decided to free his slaves and offer them 160 acres of land each. Some continued to work for Coles but as wage earning individuals, others sought work elsewhere. Coles stands among few who were willing to try this bold maneuver. Bruce G. Carveth will describe the remarkable life of a man who stood his ground against slavery.
We hope you enjoy the Banner Lecture series this Summer!
Mac Pence and Jeff Wells
your Richmond Virginia Bed and Breakfast Innkeepers
at Maury Place at Monument