Historic Dumfries Virginia

Ghost Walks: Return to the Shadows
2022-10-14 21:00 - 22:00, 2022-10-15 19:00 - 20:00, 2022-10-21 19:00 - 20:00, 2022-10-21 21:00 - 22:00, 2022-10-22 19:00 - 20:00, 2022-10-28 19:00 - 20:00, 2022-10-28 21:00 - 22:00, 2022-10-29 19:00 - 20:00 UTC | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Historic Dumfries Virginia, Inc. proudly presents the Return to the Shadows Ghost Tour featuring:

Outside walking tour of the Dumfries historic area at night, including Dumfries Cemetery and the Weems-Botts Museum grounds (not inside the house)
The lore that made the Weems-Botts museum famous with new happenings and a new entity documented by our paranormal investigator
A chance to investigate Merchant Park after the tour as you decide whether the stories are true

Do you dare?
Space limited – RSVP, only 15 guests per tour. Flashlights and/or cell phones with flashlights required.
Sold out? Add your name to the waitlist as we try to accomodate all participants!
COVID-19 Prevention: Participants are encouraged to wear face coverings and should confirm they have not been exposed to anyone testing positive with COVID-19 or display any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19.
For a more intense experience, check out our Tracking the Trickster experience, which includes a two hour investigation of the Annex building (Saturdays, 11pm-1am).
Members: Please call (703-221-2218) or email (info@historicdumfriesva.org) to purchase your discounted ticket.
Special thanks to our Small Business Member and Sponsor Barbara DiMattina, Realtor, Licensed in Virginia, Century 21 Redwood Realty (https://www.c21redwood.com/barbara-dimattina)
Ghost Walks will start at the Weems-Botts Museum Annex located at 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, Virginia. The Weems-Botts Museum is owned by the Town of Dumfries and operated by Historic Dumfries Virginia, Inc. whose mission is to preserve and promote the history of Dumfries – Virginia’s oldest chartered town.
For more information, please call (703) 221-2218, visit www.historicdumfriesva.org, or email info@historicdumfriesva.org.

Tracking the Trickster
2022-10-15 23:00 - 2022-10-16 01:00, 2022-10-22 23:00 - 2022-10-23 01:00, 2022-10-29 23:00 - 2022-10-30 01:00 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Historic Dumfries Virginia, Inc. proudly presents the new Tracking the Trickster investigation:

Strange events are on the rise in our museum Annex building and the surrounding grounds. Join HDVI’s paranormal investigator as he searches for a mysterious shadow figure seen lurking behind the Annex – an entity we call the Doppleganger.

View our collection of allegedly haunted artifacts up close and hear the stories associated with them.

Help collect evidence of this curious entity. Guests will set up and monitor motion activated sensors and utilize audio recorders to capture electronic voice phenomena in locations that are off limits to regular visitors.

Space extremely limited – RSVP, only 3 guests per tour. Ages 18+ Flashlights and/or cell phones with flashlights required.
Sold out? Waitlist in case an opening pops up! We try to accomodate our waitlist participants.
COVID-19 Prevention: Participants are required to wear face coverings when entering any building on museum grounds. Participants should report any contact with COVID-19 positive persons and monitor their health for 2 weeks before the event.
For a less expensive and outside walking tour experience, check out our Ghost Walks: Return to the Shadows tickets, which is a walking tour of Dumfries at night with our experienced Ghost Guide.
Special thanks to our Small Business Member and Sponsor Barbara DiMattina, Realtor, Licensed in Virginia, Century 21 Redwood Realty (https://www.c21redwood.com/barbara-dimattina)
Ghost Walks will start at the Weems-Botts Museum Annex located at 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, Virginia. The Weems-Botts Museum is owned by the Town of Dumfries and operated by Historic Dumfries Virginia, Inc. whose mission is to preserve and promote the history of Dumfries – Virginia’s oldest chartered town.
For more information, please call (703) 221-2218, visit www.historicdumfriesva.org, or email info@historicdumfriesva.org.

Virtual Halloween Tea
2022-10-22 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Learn about classic and modern Gothic horror, hear spooky lore & stories, and discuss recipes and beverages to celebrate Halloween! From classic to lesser known authors and stories, we will explore lore & history to scare ourselves silly. Join us from the safety of your home…if you dare!
Each participant will receive a PDF booklet with recipes and Halloween game ideas (geared for all ages).
*HDVI Members: Please call (703-221-2218) or email (info@historicdumfriesva.org) to purchase your reduced price ticket!

November Member Cookie Swap
2022-11-05 10:00 - 10:30 | Online
All members and prospective members are welcome to this Cookie Swap virtual program! Come prepared to share your favorite recipes along with blank recipe cards to add to your next baking party. From historical and uncommon to allergy-free, everyone is welcome!
Members First programs are held every other month to show appreciation to our membership. There is no pressure or committment to join by attending this free program.

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Slice of Life & Everything Nice
2022-11-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
November is the time to embrace all short stories that leave us feeling happy & warm! Enjoy reading our selections along with a cup of Healing Honeysuckle Tea! Meet us virtually on Saturday, 11/12, to discuss the Slice of Life genre along with these delightful tales.
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Healing Honeysuckle Tea (vendor: Piper & Leaf Tea Company in Huntsville, Alabama) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!

Children's Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group: Historic Games
2022-11-19 10:00 - 10:30 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Join our educators as we play historic games in Merchant Park! Try your hand at stick & hoop, graces, and hopscotch as we learn and interact with games enjoyed by early American children. Take an active part in living history in the small and mighty Town of Dumfries!
Children’s Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group is a free program offered monthly with different themes and activities. Masks are required at all times when entering any Historic Dumfries Virginia/The Weems-Botts Museum indoor structures.

The Winter is Coming Tea
2022-12-03 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Winter is coming! Join us as we enjoy winter folklore, scary stories, and a delicious cup of Leaf & Petal‘s tea (mailed directly to you). Prepare for winter with us from the comfort of your home! All participants will receive a PDF booklet with accompanying recipes and board & card game suggestions.
*Interested but can’t attend this specific date? Gather your friends and contact us to arrange a different date and time!
*Members: Contact us directly to receive your discount either via email (info@historicdumfriesva.org) or over the phone (703-221-2218).

Holiday Open House
2022-12-10 13:30 - 15:30 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Join us for an open house holiday tradition! Enjoy a delightful performance by Broad Run String’s along with sugar cookie decorating and holiday crafts! Tickets and face masks required.
Historic Holiday Tours at 2 & 3: Please contact Lisa Timmerman directly to RSVP your spot! Free, very limited space. Face masks required. (703-221-2218, info@historicdumfriesva.org)

Winter Garland Swag Class
2022-12-14 09:00 - 10:30 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Craft elegant holiday winter swag for your home using fresh greenery and pinecones from The Weems-Botts Museum. Walk away with the skills and swag after joining us for an hour of arts & crafts! All supplies included. Program scheduled for Merchant Park Pavilion if weather allows. If not, program will be held in the Annex. Masks are required for entering any HDVI building.
Historic Dumfries Virginia is a non-profit historical organization in the Town of Dumfries. We host a variety of courses and activities throughout the year!

January Members First: Superstitions for the New Year!
2023-01-07 10:00 - 10:30 | Online
Join us virtually as well share our favorite New Year superstitions at this free program! Why not add an extra sprinkling of good luck to 2023 and learn the history behind some of the most common & popular myths!
Our Members First programs are free and for all Historic Dumfries Virginia members and prospective members! Held every other month, we welcome everyone to learn more about our non-profit organization with no membership pressure or commitment.

Children's Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group: To The Birds!
2023-01-21 10:00 - 11:00 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Join us as we learn how people and animals stay warm during winter and craft a birdfeeder! Dispel common wildlife myths and Learn how early Americans survived the cold months in Virginia, dispel common winter & wildlife myths, and craft a pinecone bird feeder for our cold outdoor friends!
Children’s Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group is a free program offered every 3rd Saturday throughout the year focusing on different themes each month.
Masks required.

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Dark Fantasy
2023-01-28 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join us as we indulge in dark fantasy during the coldest months of the year! Quench your literary thirst for contemplative & surprising literature while enjoying Blood Orange Smoothie Tea from the comforts of your home. Meet with us on Saturday, 01/28, as we tackle the tales from a literary & historic perspective!
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Blood Orange Smoothie Tea (vendor: The Tea Spot in Boulder, Colorado) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!

Earn the Life in Colonial America Try-it
2023-01-30 09:00 - 10:30 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Calling all Brownie Girl Scouts! Spend your morning at The Weems-Botts Museum as we delve into Colonial Life! Complete four activities to earn your Try-It at a colonial site in a famous colonial town! Fully engage in living history with our educators as you learn about life in Colonial Virginia with actual artifacts!
$7.00 per brownie, all supplies & try-it included. Face masks & tickets required. No refunds.

Presidents Day: The Cherry Tree & Me
2023-02-20 10:00 - 11:00 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Celebrate Presidents Day at The Weems-Botts Museum as we read Parson Weems’ folktales about George Washington! Make masks to reenact scenes from the famous Cherry Tree story and then record your own family stories!
Free! Masks and tickets required!

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Medieval Romance
2023-02-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Escape with us to a world of chivalry, romance, and fantasy! Enjoy medieval romantic tales as we discuss both the medieval period & literary works that still inspire us today. Enjoy the velvety mouthfeel of Ginger Jazz tea from Leaf & Petal as we daydream & swoon over classic folktales & historic literature!
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Ginger Jazz Tea (vendor: Heavenly Tea Leaves in Great Neck, New York) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!

Children's Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group: Kites!
2023-03-11 10:00 - 11:00 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
Join our educators as we design, build, and fly kites! This free hour program includes the history behind kites as well as the supplies needed and a chance to see if yours work!
Children’s Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group is a free program offered every 2nd or 3rd Saturday throughout the year focusing on different themes each month.
Tickets & Masks required for indoor activities.

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Detective Fiction
2023-03-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Follow classic detectives and try to solve the clues as The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles read detective fiction! Drink delicious Coconut Cardamon Chai Oolong tea and join us for our monthly chat as we present both literary & historic perspectives. Learn the slang and typical trends of our early detectives as we indulge & enjoy this neat genre!
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Coconut Cardamon Chai Oolong Tea (vendor: Vida pour Tea in Greensboro, North Carolina) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!

Children's Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group: Mother's Day
2023-04-15 10:00 - 11:00 | The Weems-Botts Museum Annex, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
April is the perfect time to craft a gift for Mother’s Day! Join us as we learn about the holiday & craft gifts to present to your mother and/or guardian! This program includes all the supplies needed!
Children’s Day at the Museum Sponsored by Colonial Downs Group is a free program offered every 2nd or 3rd Saturday throughout the year focusing on different themes each month.
Masks required for indoors.

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Arthurian Legends
2023-04-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
What do you know about King Arthur and the associated legends? Join The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles as we read different historic versions of these legendary fables while sipping on delicious Lavender Rose Vanilla Rooibos tea! What was original to the legend and what changed over time? Answers to these questions and more at our monthly virtual presentation & chat!
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Lavender Rose Vanilla Rooibos tea (vendor: Vida pour Tea in Greensboro, North Carolina) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!

Prince Williams Resolves Chapter, DAR: Wreath Laying Ceremony
2023-05-06 11:00 - 12:00 | Merchant Park, 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries, VA, 22026, United States
The Prince William Resolves Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) will hold a Wreath Laying Ceremony honoring the 274th Anniversary of the Town of Dumfries and the 249th Anniversary of the signing of the Prince William County Resolves. The event will take place at the Weems-Botts Museum, Dumfries, VA at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
The town of Dumfries, which received its charter on May 11, 1749, is the oldest continuously chartered town in Virginia. The town once was the second leading port in Colonial America, at the time rivaling New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. It was also near to the home of the first Prince William County Courthouse, the birthplace of the Prince William County Resolves, a key document in our nation’s history. The document, which was a series of “resolves” in support of Boston and against King George III and Parliament’s policies, “in the common cause of American liberty,” marked Virginia’s first coordinated dissension against Great Britain. The document successfully passed on June 6, 1774.
The Prince William Resolves Chapter, NSDAR, is located in Dale City, VA, and is one of 130 chapters in the state of Virginia. The chapter is composed of a diverse group of women who have traced their ancestral lineage back to Patriots of the American Revolutionary War, and who are dedicated to community service, preserving history, educating children, and honoring and supporting those who serve our nation. For more information or to become a member of the Prince William Resolves Chapter visit: (https://princewilliamresol.wixsite.com/dalecity).

The Weems-Botts Bibliophiles: Nautical Tales
2023-05-27 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Seafaring voyages are taking center stage as we help you prepare for a summer of fun vacations! Sail away with us as we explore the dangers at sea with classic & lesser known authors. Brew and ice a cup of refreshing Hibiscus Lemonade Tea to embrace Dumfries nautical past in this delightful and thrilling literary & historic journey.
Check your mail for a special card and fresh Hibiscus Lemonade Tea (vendor: Tea Sip in Houston, Texas) from Leaf & Petal as we indulge in fantastic literature!
