The Richard Henry Lee Chapter, Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, hosted a luncheon meeting on June 9 at Historic Christ Church in Weems. The meeting was attended by compatriots of the RHLC and their guests. RHLC president Dr. Dennis Martin presided.
The meeting began with lunch provided by caterer Terry Bain of Excellent E.A.T.S.
After lunch, awards ceremonies were conducted. RHL Compatriot Ammon G. Dunton Jr. was awarded a 15-year membership anniversary certificate. This was followed by an induction ceremony to welcome four new members—Chris A. Collver, Charles P. Fulford, John D. Hooper and Temple C. Moore Jr.
The keynote speaker for the luncheon was Commander John D. Hooper (U.S. Coast Guard-ret.), who spoke on “The History of the U.S. Navy and Virginia Naval Militia During the American Revolution.”
Hooper gave a brief overview of the U.S. Navy from its inception on Oct. 13, 1775, through the latter years of the American Revolution. He then addressed the history of the Virginia Naval Militia. Col. Patrick Henry was instrumental in the authorization of a naval militia in Virginia on Jan. 11, 1776.
Hooper highlighted notable officers in the Virginia Navy, including the Barron brothers, James Jr. and Richard. He also spoke of Captain Richard Taylor, who became the chief officer of the Virginia Navy after the Revolution.
He also highlighted Cesar Tarrant, a black enslaved person who steered the navy ship Patriot during an action against a British privateer off the Virginia Capes. Naval veterans testified to his gallantry. The General Assembly freed Tarrant in 1789.
He concluded his presentation a listing of the Virginia naval vessels, and overviews of naval armaments and crews, Virginia shipyards, and notable naval actions in the Chesapeake Bay.
No meetings will take place in July or August. Regular monthly luncheon meetings will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at Historic Christ Church. The luncheon meetings are open to the public by reservation only.
To learn more about Virginia SAR, visit virginiasar.org.