Residents and visitors gathered at Virginia Mountain Vineyards last Saturday for the “Spirits Trail of 1776,” a community event celebrating Botetourt County’s role in the American Revolution as part of the ongoing VA250 commemoration.
Hosted by the Botetourt Preservation Partnership, the event combined historical interpretation, educational programming, music, and local food as attendees explored the county’s Revolutionary-era heritage during the nation’s 250th anniversary observance and Virginia’s related commemorative efforts.
Historical interpreters from the Fincastle Company presented demonstrations and shared stories depicting 18th-century life in Botetourt County, offering visitors an interactive look at the experiences of local residents during the Revolutionary period.
The program also featured presentations focused on the region’s wartime history. Steve Aaron spoke about Loyalists in backcountry Virginia, while Carlton Payne discussed the Botetourt County militia and its role during the American Revolution.
Guests also explored a walking outdoor exhibit highlighting key moments in the county’s history. The exhibit was designed to complement the day’s presentations and provide additional historical context for attendees.
Live music was provided by Michael Proffitt, and food was available from Firecraft.
The event was part of a broader series of spring and summer programs taking place throughout Botetourt County in conjunction with Virginia’s VA250 initiative, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and Virginia’s contributions to the Revolutionary War era.
The Spirits Trail event was supported in part through Virginia Humanities and local preservation efforts aimed at promoting public engagement with regional history.
The next event is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, at A Few Old Goats brewery in Buchanan from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
