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Fairfax County’s pivotal role in the American Revolution came alive at Gunston Hall on June 13, as historical interpreters, musicians and community groups marked Declaration Day ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The celebration highlighted Virginia’s Declaration of Rights, which the Virginia General Assembly ratified on June 12, 1776—three weeks before the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence. George Mason IV, the owner of Gunston Hall, drafted the influential Virginia document.
Mason also worked primarily with George Washington on the Fairfax Resolves of 1774, a series of resolutions rejecting British authority over the colonies.
Ideas That Shaped a Nation
Historical interpreters portraying Washington and Thomas Jefferson discussed the origins of American government and the creation of the country’s founding documents.
Jefferson interpreter Steven Edenbo praised Mason as one of the greatest thinkers Jefferson had encountered. The Virginia Declaration of Rights is widely regarded as an early, clear statement of the principles underlying democratic government.
Its first article declares that all people are naturally free and independent and possess inherent rights. The document also identifies life, liberty, property, happiness and safety among those rights. Scholars have noted that Jefferson drew upon Mason’s language while drafting the Declaration of Independence and that similar ideas later appeared in constitutions around the world.
Doug Thomas, portraying Washington, emphasized the Constitution’s ability to change through amendments approved by the people rather than through an unlawful seizure of power.
“A monarch governs by fear,” Edenbo’s Jefferson told the audience. “A democracy governs by virtue.” He added that democracy requires an informed public capable of holding leaders accountable.
The exchange also offered lighter moments. When a young audience member asked how long it took to write the founding documents, Washington pointed to the summer of 1787 for the Constitution. Jefferson said he completed the Declaration of Independence in two and a half weeks—and joked that he had not waited until the night before it was due.
Rozalyn Gaines, portraying Nell, an enslaved woman, brought another perspective to the discussion. She challenged visitors to consider how people can correct systems and conditions they recognize as unfair.
Music, Games and Revolutionary History
The day began with the Sons of the American Revolution placing a wreath at the Mason family tombs. Visitors also toured the Georgian mansion, constructed between 1755 and 1758, and shared a birthday cake.
The Itinerant Band, a three-member Virginia women’s ensemble, performed music heard in the colonies before the Revolutionary War using flute, fiddle, recorder and guitar. The program included enduring tunes such as “Soldier’s Joy” and “Greensleeves.”
Children tried 18th-century activities, including a ring toss made with twine rings. They also created tricorne hats and cockades.
April Carter helped visitors make buttons carrying messages such as “freedom of the press” and “Declaration of Rights.” A matching game introduced participants to American rights advocates including Cesar Chavez, Ida B. Wells and Jackie Robinson.
Organizations lining the magnolia-shaded approach to the mansion included George Mason University, the Library of Virginia, the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Fairfax County libraries. Members of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America also discussed their connections to colonial ancestors.
Marine Corps museum director Keil Gentry said the institution was participating to commemorate the country’s anniversary through the experiences of Marines. He noted that the Marine Corps’ founding in 1775 coincided with the nation’s revolutionary era.
Gunston Hall’s commemoration extended beyond the festival. On June 12, the historic site hosted a naturalization ceremony for 48 people from 22 countries. Jorge Zamanillo, founding director of the planned Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino in Washington, served as guest speaker.
The weekend concluded with a colonial-style punchline for children from Annandale Cub Scout Pack 855. Asked to name Jefferson’s favorite tea, they learned the answer: “Lib-er-tea.”