Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation is a traveling exhibition from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. It will be at Long Branch Historic House & Farm from November 7 to December 12, 2025.
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This exhibition will also highlight Long Branch’s connection to the Declaration of Independence. The father of Philip Nelson, the second owner of Long Branch, Thomas Nelson, Jr. was a signer of the Declaration. His signature features in the bottom center of the document. Learn about him and his legacy.
The exhibition will also feature Long Branch’s link to the War of 1812, through its first owner, Robert Carter Burwell, who fought in this war as a captain in the US Army, and who ultimately perished during the conflict with the British. Guns, swords and other Militaria from the 1812 time period will be on display.
An additional connection from Long Branch to the Revolutionary War is a connection to the Marquis de Lafayette. As a young French officer, the Marquis de Lafayette was instrumental during the War, especially at the Battle of Yorktown, where his leadership of troops and strategic brilliance was pivotal in blocking British reinforcements, leading to a final, decisive victory and the end of the war. Adelaide Nelson’s (third owner of Long Branch) father John Holker, was a consul general of France and had performed diplomatic services for France during the American Revolution. From this, he became friends with Lafayette. As a token of friendship, Lafayette gave Holker a camp saucepan and lid, stamped with his initials, which remained a treasured heirloom for the Nelsons throughout Long Branch's history. It will also be on display.
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The exhibition runs from November 7 to December 12, 2025. Admission free.
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The exhibit will explore the unique and essential Virginia people, events, and sites that helped bring liberty and democracy to a nation. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this exhibit will highlight the complex, diverse, and inspiring Virginia history which is, in fact, America’s story. Give Me Liberty will provide context for the coming of the Revolution in Virginia and brings visitors into the core of the action from 1774 through 1776, highlighting how the American Revolution was a war, and more than a war.
The Siege of Yorktown, Va., depicting French
General Rochambeau, center, with to his right, Generals George Washington and Lafayette
Museum of the American Revolution
