Members of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard fire a musket salute at the end of Saturday’s ceremony to commemorate the 249th anniversary of the Battle of Cricket Hill (also known as the Battle of Gwynn’s Island) at the water’s edge in front of the original artillery battery location at current-day Morningstar Marinas in Hudgins. The Richard Henry Lee Chapter SAR hosted the celebration. Among those participating were Virginia Society SAR Compatriot and keynote speaker Dr. Patrick Hannum, representatives from several Virginia Society SAR chapters and National Society Daughters of the American Revolution chapters, the Virginia Society Order of Founder and Patriots of America, as well as U.S. Daughters 1812. On July 9, 1776, patriots under the command of Brigadier General Andrew Lewis opened fire on Lord Dunmore’s fleet with a battery of cannon, including 18- and 9-pounders. Overnight, Dunmore, Virginia’s last royal governor, and his forces quietly weighed anchor and fled, ending British rule in Virginia. On July 10-12, 2026, the 250th anniversary of this battle will be highlighted as a part of the Mathews 250 celebrations. Approximately 50-60 spectators took part in Saturday’s event.