Welcome to Revolution Revisited™, your crash course in the American Revolution. Join us as we dive into the stories of Virginia's rebels, rule breakers, and rabble rousers.

Season Two of Revolution Revisited™ follows the story of the Revolution as the colony moves from protests to open war, from royal authority to self-government, and from loyalty to independence. Across six episodes, hear from historians Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, Sam Florer, Andrew Lawler, Dr. Ashley Spivey, Christina Keyser Vida, Andrew Talkov, and Dr. John Ragosta.

Discover how Washington took command of the Continental Army, how Dunmore’s Proclamation shook the foundations of both slavery and loyalty, and how ordinary Virginians confronted extraordinary choices. Witness the birth of Virginia’s new government, its Declaration of Rights, and the momentous adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform and join us for a captivating journey through the American Revolution. Revolution Revisited: Words to Action coming Fall 2025.

Words had turned to action, and revolutionary sentiment simmered amongst Virginians.

In this episode of Revolution Revisited, host Maggie Creech provides a preview of the upcoming Season 2, along with a refresher on key points from the previous season.

Inside the Episode:

Before anyone fired a shot in the American Revolution, the colonies were already on edge and Virginia was right in the middle of it. In this bonus episode of Revolution Revisited, we’re dropping into the spring and summer of 1774, a moment when anger at British rule was building fast, but full-blown independence still felt impossible. Our guide is a single letter from Virginia statesman Edmund Pendleton to his friend Joseph Chew. It’s preserved at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and it captures a snapshot in time when people were fighting with words, not weapons.

Pendleton writes about the chaos in Boston and a fresh round of harsh laws from Parliament. You can feel the colonies starting to come together. In Virginia, lawmakers declared a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer to stand with Boston until Royal Governor Lord Dunmore shut them down. So, the Burgesses met anyway at the Raleigh Tavern and quietly began organizing. From there, everything sped up: Patrick Henry’s “liberty” thundered through the colony, Lexington and Concord erupted, and Dunmore escalated things even more, seizing gunpowder and threatening to arm enslaved Virginians. Debate turned into rebellion.

This one letter also puts real faces to the choices people had to make. Pendleton, careful and cautious at first, would help draft the Virginia Declaration of Rights and steer the new nation’s early steps. Chew, who was friends with Washington and Madison, stayed loyal to the Crown. Their paths remind us the Revolution wasn’t a simple split between patriots and loyalists. It was a personal decision for every colonist.

This episode connects those early cracks in the system to the moment the break finally comes and sets up Season 2, when the fight for liberty moves from letters and taverns to battlefields and declarations.

TIMESTAMPS:

• [00:35] Host Maggie Creech previews Season 2 and introduces a 1774 letter from Edmund Pendleton to Joseph Chew as a lens on pre-revolution tensions.
• [01:10] The Royal Proclamation of 1763 is explained as a key source of colonial frustration and the spark for westward expansion debates.
• [01:45] Pendleton’s letter describes Parliament’s punishment of Boston through the Port Act, seen by Virginians as a direct attack on American rights.
• [02:31] The Boston Tea Party and its consequences unfold as Virginia declares a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer in solidarity with Massachusetts.
• [03:15] Governor Dunmore dissolves the Virginia House of Burgesses, pushing members to meet at the Raleigh Tavern to plan resistance.
• [04:00] The colonies’ first steps toward unity take shape as twelve colonies gather in Philadelphia for the First Continental Congress.
• [04:50] Pendleton warns of new conflict in the Ohio Valley, as Lord Dunmore mobilizes militias and clashes erupt with Indigenous nations.
• [05:30] The narrative shifts to spring 1775 when Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech inspires Virginia’s independent militia.
• [06:05] The “shot heard ’round the world” at Lexington and Concord coincides with Dunmore’s seizure of gunpowder and threats to free enslaved people.
• [06:45] Virginia edges from loyalty to revolution as words turn to action and resistance spreads across the colony.
• [07:15] Pendleton’s transformation from cautious loyalist to revolutionary leader contrasts with Chew’s decision to remain faithful to Britain.
• [07:55] Reflection on how patriot and loyalist divisions were more complex than hindsight suggests.
• [08:20] Maggie previews Season 2 topics: the Battle of Great Bridge, Virginia’s evolving identity, and its role in shaping the Declaration of Independence.

The voiceover of Edmund Pendleton's letter in this episode was generated by AI. The content of the transcript itself was not altered.

RELATED CONTENT:

• Virginia Museum of History & Culture
• Revolution Revisited Podcast
• Revolution Revisited Season 1
• Edmund Pendleton

In this bonus episode of Revolution Revisited, host Maggie Creech and guest Nicole Brown, a doctoral candidate at William and Mary, explore the Williamsburg Bray School's complex legacy in colonial Virginia.

The episode delves into the school's operations from 1760 to 1774, its focus on educating free and enslaved black children, the school's complexities, its role in both perpetuating and challenging racial hierarchies, and the nature of education in 18th-century Virginia. They delve into the curriculum, the students' experiences, and the impact of the school's teachings. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of recognizing and naming the children who attended the school and the role of education in empowering them, despite the school's initial intention to maintain social control. The episode also highlights recent efforts to preserve and disseminate the history of the Bray School through interdisciplinary research and community involvement.

Nicole Brown, PhD Candidate in American Studies at William & Mary

• Nicole Brown is an award-winning author, living history expert, and a PhD Candidate in American Studies at William & Mary. Her ongoing academic research analyzes Black literacy in the Atlantic World via interdisciplinary and descendant-engaged scholarship. Brown’s work as a museum professional has taken her across the globe, presenting on interpretive techniques for “hard” histories at museums and historic sites in the United States. Brown recently co-edited a book entitled The Williamsburg Bray School, 1760-1774: A History Through Records, Reflections, and Rediscovery.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:54 The Williamsburg Bray School: An Overview
• 01:55 The Bray Schools Network and Its Origins
• 04:30 Educational Practices and Challenges
• 08:07 Student Experiences and Historical Records
• 15:30 The Impact and Legacy of the Bray School
• 18:33 Modern Research and Public Engagement
• 21:45 Conclusion and Reflections

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

In this episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech explores the vital role that taverns and spirits played in both colonial and revolutionary Virginia. Featuring insights from Annie Tobey, a writer and editor, and Barry Haneberg, a distiller and historian, the discussion covers the evolution of alcohol production, the gendered aspects of brewing, and the central place of taverns in social and political life.

Inside the Episode:

The episode delves into the traditional and practical uses of alcohol in colonial Virginia, the role of women in brewing and distillation, and how the revolutionary war accelerated the transition of alcohol production from domestic to industrial spheres. Taverns are examined as social and political hubs where community life flourished and revolutionary ideas were exchanged. Key topics include colonial regulations, the impact of British taxes on molasses and rum, and the significant role of spirits as rations, incentives, and morale boosters for Revolutionary soldiers. The episode concludes by emphasizing the central role of taverns in the communal and political life of the colonies.

Guests:

• Annie Tobey, Writer and Editor
• Barry Haneberg, Distiller & Historian

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 00:39 Colonial Taverns: The Heart of Community Life
• 01:50 Brewing and Distillation in Early America
• 04:49 The Role of Women in Brewing and Taverns
• 06:05 Taverns as Revolutionary Hubs
• 09:00 Colonial Regulations and Tavern Culture
• 14:45 The Importance of Rum and the Molasses Act
• 19:35 Alcohol in the Continental Army
• 21:28 Conclusion and Credits

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

In this mini episode of Revolution Revisited, host Maggie Creech and guest Cody Youngblood, Director of Historic Preservation and Collections at Patrick Henry's Red Hill, explore the story behind Patrick Henry's paper cutter. This seemingly unassuming artifact played a pivotal role in Henry's iconic 'Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death' speech.

The episode delves into Henry's complex personal life, including his contradictory legacy as a revolutionary figure and enslaver. Youngblood provides insights into Henry's family life, his dramatic flair, and new discoveries around the paper cutter that enhance our understanding of this historic object. The episode underscores the enduring impact of Patrick Henry and his contributions to American history.

Cody Youngblood, Director of Historic Preservation & Collections at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill

• Cody Youngblood is an architectural historian and the Director of Historic Preservation & Collections at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill. He holds a B.A. in Historic Preservation and Museum Studies from the University of Mary Washington and an M.A. in the Conservation of Historic Buildings from the University of York. He has formerly served as Museum Director of George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor and Collections Manager at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens in Leesburg, Virginia. At Red Hill, Cody stewards a collection of nearly 3,000 artifacts and manages the preservation of its historic built environment. He remains a lifelong taphophile and enjoys genealogical research in his spare time.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:53 Spotlight on Patrick Henry's Paper Cutter
• 01:49 Patrick Henry's Personal Life and Legacy
• 03:38 The Complexities of Henry's Family Life
• 07:12 Henry's Early Career and Rise to Fame
• 08:22 The Significance of the Paper Cutter
• 10:15 Historical Context and Preservation
• 13:00 Patrick Henry's Theatrical Flair
• 16:50 Conclusion

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture

In this episode of Revolution Revisited, host Maggie Creech and guest Sam Florer delve into the pivotal events of 1775 that marked the transition from diplomatic efforts to armed conflict in the American Revolution.

The discussion focuses on the formation of local militias, the enforcement of boycotts through committees of safety, and the influence of Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” speech at the Second Virginia Convention. The conflict's spread from Massachusetts to Virginia underscores the collective push towards rebellion. Notably, Dunmore's removal of gunpowder and subsequent threats to free and arm enslaved people significantly escalated tensions, culminating in Virginia labeling Henry a rebel.

Sam Florer, Manager of Public Programs at Virginia Museum of History & Culture

• Sam holds a BA and MA in History from the College of William & Mary and has more than 10 years of experience working in museum settings, with a focus on education and public engagement. In his current role, Sam provides teacher professional development, assists students, and coordinates with statewide cultural institutions to implement the Virginia affiliate of National History Day, a nationwide historical research competition. He also manages a variety of public adult programs at the VMHC. In addition, he works as a historical researcher and writer, specializing in 18th and 19th century American history.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:41 The Revolutionary Spring of 1775
• 01:48 Formation of Local Committees and Militias
• 09:24 The Second Virginia Convention
• 14:01 Patrick Henry's Fiery Resolutions
• 23:26 Escalating Tensions and Slave Rebellions
• 24:18 Colonial Resistance in Massachusetts
• 27:49 The Road to Lexington and Concord
• 30:19 The Alarm Spreads: Paul Revere's Midnight Ride
• 31:20 The Battle of Lexington: The First Shots Fired
• 32:11 Chaos at Concord: The Militia's Stand
• 33:24 The British Retreat: A Militia Victory
• 34:16 The Siege of Boston: War Begins
• 35:18 Virginia's Gunpowder Incident: Tensions Rise
• 42:24 Dunmore's Threats: A Colony on Edge
• 45:12 Patrick Henry's Militia: Marching to Williamsburg
• 49:01 The Road to Revolution: A Nation Divided
• 51:31 Conclusion: The Revolutionary Spring of 1775

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture

In this episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech, along with expert John Ragosta, explores the First Continental Congress of 1774 and the significant contributions of Virginia.

This episode discusses the early resistance efforts in Virginia, the formation and impact of Committees of Correspondence, and the subsequent unity among the colonies. Key figures such as Patrick Henry, Peyton Randolph, and George Washington are highlighted, as well as the major decisions made during the Congress, including the Suffolk Resolves and the Continental Association.

Dr. John Ragosta, Fellow, Virginia Humanities

• John Ragosta, previously the acting director of the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello, is a fellow at Virginia Humanities. He has taught law and history at the University of Virginia, George Washington University, and Hamilton, Oberlin, and Randolph Colleges. Dr. Ragosta’s most recent book – For the People, For the Country: Patrick Henry’s Final Political Battle – was released in August of 2023 by the University of Virginia Press. He is also the author of Religious Freedom: Jefferson’s Legacy, America’s Creed (UVA Press, 2013), Wellspring of Liberty (Oxford 2010), and other works. An award-winning author and frequent commentator, Ragosta holds both a PhD and a JD from the University of Virginia. Before returning to academia, Dr. Ragosta was a partner at Dewey Ballantine LLP. He is also a beekeeper.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:41 Setting the Stage: Virginia's Role in Early Resistance
• 02:39 The Path to Unity: From Local Grievances to Continental Congress
• 04:45 The First Continental Congress: A Historic Gathering
• 08:34 Virginia's Influence and Key Figures
• 16:17 Debates and Decisions: Defining Colonial Rights
• 21:27 The Continental Association: Economic Strategy and Enforcement
• 30:49 Looking Ahead: The Road to Revolution
• 33:28 Conclusion

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture

In this episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech explores the pivotal role of print culture in the American Revolution with guests Dr. James Herrera-Brookes & Dr. Cathy Hellier.

Highlighting the contributions of trailblazing printer Clementina Rind and the impact of Thomas Jefferson's radical pamphlet 'A Summary View of the Rights of British America,' the episode delves into how literacy and printed materials like newspapers and pamphlets spread revolutionary ideas. The discussion covers the intellectual foundations of the Enlightenment, the logistics of 18th-century printing, and the far-reaching effects of disseminated ideas, even among enslaved populations. The episode emphasizes the transformative power of the written word in mobilizing and unifying colonial resistance against British rule.

Dr. James Herrera-Brookes, Melanie Trent de Shutter Sr. Director of Research & Publications at VMHC

• James is responsible for leadership of the VMHC’s library services, overall management of research and publications, and growing the library’s print collection. He holds an MRes and Ph.D. in American studies and history from the University of Nottingham, where he specialized in the American Civil War and American print and visual culture. James has held research fellowships at the Newberry Library, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Library of Congress. James’ doctoral research examined Civil War soldier-artists and the varied ways they pictured the conflict and has been published in Civil War History and Journal of American Studies. This work will form the basis of a forthcoming exhibition and publication by the VMHC.

Dr. Cathleene B. Hellier, Senior Historian at Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

• Cathy Hellier is currently Senior Historian at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Williamsburg, Virginia. Born and raised in western Pennsylvania, she joined the Foundation in 1978 as a historical interpreter. From 1979, she has worked in Historical Research at the Foundation. This department produces original research, primarily on Virginia during the colonial period, and supports programming in the Foundation’s Historic Area. Cathy has master’s degrees in Museum Education and American Studies and a doctorate in American Studies. Her dissertation is on enslaved male domestics in Virginia to 1800, and her other research interests include the politics and ideology of the American Revolution; the community of Williamsburg; history of the family; eighteenth-century English language; dance and deportment; and household management. She and her husband Ben have two grown children, Stephen and Katie.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:41 The Power of Print in the 18th Century
• 01:54 Literacy and Print Culture in Colonial America
• 05:44 The Role of Newspapers and Pamphlets
• 15:04 Censorship and Challenges in Print
• 17:49 Clementina Rind: A Trailblazing Printer
• 23:34 Jefferson's Radical Pamphlet
• 29:20 Impact of Revolutionary Print on Enslaved People
• 34:11 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture