Presented by Gretchen Goodell Pendleton of The George Washington Foundation. The Foundation will share its archival digitization project that is beginning in earnest this year, along with the material culture reflected in the primary documents, including the built environment of Kenmore during its construction in the 1770s.

Gretchen Goodell Pendleton is the Aldrich Director of Curatorial Operations at The George Washington Foundation. She has served in curatorial positions at historic sites for over twenty years, including locations such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Stratford Hall. In her current role, she oversees the historic collections and exhibitions for Historic Kenmore and George Washington’s Ferry Farm.

With Jeff Joyce.

The first part of Jeff’s presentation is an overview of how the Civil War impacted Culpeper County, including major battles like Cedar Mountain and Brandy Station and the Army of the Potomac winter encampment (1863-64).  The second part discusses the establishment of Culpeper National Cemetery after the war and the stories of several Civil War soldiers buried there.

Jeff Joyce is an Air Force veteran and retired Defense contractor who lives in Manassas.  He is a a volunteer historian at Culpeper National Cemetery, supporting the Wreaths Across America program.  In addition, Jeff is a Docent at the National Air and Space Museum, a volunteer with the Honor Flight Program, a battlefield guide at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park in Prince William County and a member of the living history team at Manassas National Battlefield.

The Christmas party will be held at the Rowser Building, Room A. The SCHS provides napkins, plates, cutlery, and beverages. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to share.

Please visit the Friends of the Wilderness Battlefield website (https://www.fowb.org/) for more information and details

Frank O’Reilly is one of the nation’s leading Civil War historians. A longtime historian and ranger with the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Parks, O’Reilly is the acclaimed author of The Fredericksburg Campaign: Winter War on the Rappahannock, which won multiple awards for its depth and storytelling. He has lectured nationally, appeared on C-SPAN, and served as a historical consultant for the City of Fredericksburg. His career began as a guide at the Stonewall Jackson House, and for more than three decades, he has helped thousands connect more deeply with America’s Civil War history.

This lecture will shine a light on a fascinating and pivotal aspect of the Battle of Cedar Mountain, fought right here in Culpeper County. With O’Reilly’s trademark depth of research and gift for bringing the past to life, this evening promises to be both engaging and unforgettable.

Seats are limited, and events with Frank O’Reilly traditionally fill quickly. Don’t miss your chance to step onto the battlefield through the eyes of one of America’s foremost Civil War scholars.

We look forward to seeing you there for an evening where history comes alive.

REGISTER FOR TICKETS

Cost: $20.00 per ticket

Stafford County Historical Society Historian, Jerrilynn Eby MacGregor, will share her knowledge of various historic places in Stafford County and their fascinating stories that go with them.

Prior to Jerrilynn’s presentation, we will conduct the election of the 2026 SCHS Board of Directors.  Members in attendance will have the opportunity to ask questions and nominations will be accepted from the floor.