TIP! Choose liberty or death, either one is free

If you have not seen a Patrick Henry reenactment at St. John’s Church, it is Richmond law that you shall be put in the stocks and left upon the doorstep of ye olde Mamma ‘Zu—smelling the smells but never tasting the tastes.

Peace, Peace–but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!1

It’s been 240 years since ol’ Patrick Henry said his famous things at St. John’s Church, and they’re maybe the most famous words to come out of Richmond besides “Have Funn! Go Nutz!” For the last 40 years, the St. John’s Church Foundation has put on reenactments of this most famous of anti-tyranny speeches–almost 17% of the entire time since the original speech. If you haven’t already at some point over the last four decades, or maybe just want a refresher, you can take in a free reenactment ($5 suggested donation) every Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. That’s now!

Doors open at 1:15 PM, the patriotic music begins at 1:30 PM, and at 1:45 PM doors close. No admittance for late founding fathers / mothers! If you’re worried about getting bad seats or left out in the sweltering heat, you can reserve a space online for $5, just check the full events listing page here.

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Ross Catrow

Founder and publisher of RVANews.

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