2013 Events
January 2013
Walking Tour of Fort Boykin
3 p.m. January 13
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed to protect the Jamestown colonists from Native Americans and raiding Spaniards. Today, Fort Boykin remains essentially intact and constitutes a well-preserved example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee. Free.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. January 14
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the history and symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Peanuts.
Pig Tales
2-4 p.m. January 26
Pigs and hogs are linked to the history of America. This afternoon program tells the tale of that history, and participants will be able to make their own special piggy craft, participate in a scavenger hunt and fabricate their own candle. Be sure to read Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Farmer Boy before attending! Geared to children ages 7 to 12. $10 per child. Registration and pre-payment required. Held at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Curatorial Talk
2:30 p.m. January 27
Isle of Wight County Museum Curator Tracey Neikirk discusses the Civil War in Isle of Wight County. Held at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
February 2013
War of 1812 Lecture
2:30 p.m. February 3
Local living historian Rob Friar discusses the War of 1812, its background, causes and repercussions - primarily focusing on the Battle of Craney Island, a victory for the U.S. which saved Norfolk from British invasion. The role of militiamen from Smithfield and Isle of Wight County in the war will also be discussed. Held at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. February 11
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Ham.
A Salute to the Tuskegee Airman
1-3 p.m. February 16
Guests are invited to meet and speak with former Tuskegee Airman William White. He will be available to discuss his service with the US Army Air Corps while he and his fellow airmen fought against the Axis Powers while battling segregation at home. White, a resident of Smithfield, served as a member of the supply crew and recently attended President Obama's inauguration with other surviving Tuskegee Airmen.
Walking Tour of the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex
3 p.m. February 23
Join us as we explore this 19th, 20th and 21st century site and share the story of its beginnings as well as a few tales of capers and duels. This tour begins and ends at Boykin’s Tavern.
March 2013
Walking Tour of Fort Boykin
3 p.m. March 10
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed to protect the Jamestown colonists from Native Americans and raiding Spaniards. Today, Fort Boykin remains essentially intact and constitutes a well-preserved example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. March 11
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Sheep and lambs.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. March 16
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. March 16
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
Piggy Cottontail and the Great Egg Hunt
2 p.m. March 30
For Peeps Sake! The Bunny is busy with all his Easter duties, but his sidekick Piggy Cottontail offers crafts, photo opportunities and an egg hunt at Boykin’s Tavern for children ages 12 and under. A great family event! $5 per child. Reservations required.
April 2013
Park Day
9-11 a.m. April 6
Civil War Preservation Trust. Park Day is an annual hands-on preservation event created by Civil War Preservation Trust to assist local groups with the maintenance of Civil War sites. With 48,000 members, CWPT is the largest non-profit battlefield preservation organization in the United States whose goal is to preserve our nation’s endangered Civil War sites and to promote appreciation of these hallowed grounds through education and heritage tourism. In exchange for their hard work, volunteers receive t-shirts and have an opportunity to hear a local historian describe the significance of the site. Join us at Fort Boykin for a morning of clean-up!
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. April 8
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Steamboats.
Genealogy Seminar
2 p.m. April 13
Rod McDonald of the Tidewater Genealogical Society will offer a seminar on how to research your family roots.
Home School Day
10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 19
All four historic sites welcome homeschoolers of all ages with a selection of fun and engaging activities that highlight the history of Isle of Wight County and Virginia.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. April 20
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. April 20
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
Victory is Ours!
10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 20
Spring has sprung, so be sure to stop by the museum to start your very own victory garden. It’s never too early to think about the fall harvest.
Siege of Suffolk Lecture
7 p.m. April 22
Civil War historian J. Michael Moore discusses the April 11 to May 4, 1863, engagement. The campaign against Suffolk was Gen. Longstreet’s first independent command, and while he was successful in protecting Richmond, he did not capture the Federal garrison at Suffolk. Lecture held at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Curatorial Talk
2:30 p.m. April 28
Isle of Wight County Museum Curator Tracey Neikirk discusses the history of Smithfield ham at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
May 2013
Duck and Cover
2-4 p.m. May 4
The Cold War, 1947 to 1991, was a period of sustained political and military tension between the powers of the Western world and the communist world. Come to the Isle of Wight County Museum to learn all about Bert the Turtle and Godzilla as this program explores the effects of the Cold War on U.S. culture – everything from movies and books to music and games. Be sure to read Rex Zero and the End of the World by Tim Wynne-Jones and The Butter Battle Book by Dr. Seuss before attending the event! Geared to children ages 7 to 12. $10 per child. Registration and pre-payment required.
Walking Tour Along Church Street
10:30 a.m. May 11
Join us as we venture for a stroll down Church Street to explore the history of our fascinating county! This tour begins at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Herb Tour of Fort Boykin
2-5 p.m. May 11
Enjoy a walking tour of Fort Boykin and learn about native edibles. A small snack concludes the tour. $10 per person. Reservations required.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. May 13
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Cotton.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. May 18
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. May 18
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
June 2013
The Cup That Cheers
Noon to 2 p.m. June 1
June is National Iced Tea Month. Stop by the museum today to learn about the world’s second most popular beverage.
Walking Tour of the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex
3 p.m. June 1
Join us as we explore this 19th, 20th and 21st century site and share the story of its beginnings as well as a few tales of capers and duels. This tour begins and ends at Boykin’s Tavern.
Walking Tour Along Church Street
10:30 a.m. June 1
Join us as we venture for a stroll down Church Street to explore the history of our fascinating county! This tour begins at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. June 15
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. June 15
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
Camera Day
10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 29
Cameras are a part of our daily lives, and we use them to snap pictures of friends, family and things that interest us. From the Brownie to the smartphone, you most likely have some type of camera with the capability of recording your precious moments. Join us for a special open house at the Isle of Wight County Museum dedicated to camera history, artifacts and technology. Inspire your inner shutterbug.
July 2013
Walking Tour Along Church Street
10:30 a.m. July 13
Join us as we venture for a stroll down Church Street to explore the history of our fascinating county! This tour begins at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Eleventy-one: The Pet Ham’s Birthday Party
Noon-2 p.m. July 13
The world’s oldest ham is 111 years old. Join us for this celebration at the Isle of Wight County Museum of all things porcine, and make a special birthday hat!
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. July 20
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. July 20
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
August 2013
Gaming Night
1-4 p.m. August 3
In the days before iPods, high definition TVs, and the Internet, games were one of the many ways people passed the time. Bring the family for a day of early 19th century amusements. Join costumed interpreters as they teach and play both children's games and those which Mr. Boykin might have made available for his older guests. Hosted by the Regency Society of Virginia. Free.
Curatorial Talk
2:30 p.m. August 4
Isle of Wight County Museum Curator Tracey Neikirk discusses country stores at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Walking Tour Along Church Street
10:30 a.m. August 10
Join us as we venture for a stroll down Church Street to explore the history of our fascinating county! This tour begins at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. August 17
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. August 17
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
September 2013
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. September 9
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Blackwater River.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. September 21
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. September 21
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
Mr. Madison’s War
2-4 p.m. September 28
Sometimes known as America’s second war for independence, the War of 1812 will be detailed in this program through crafts and hands-on activities. Participants will learn about Virginia’s role in this conflict as well as the tale of our national anthem. Be sure to read American Girl Caroline before attending this event! $10 per child. Registration and pre-payment required. Geared to 1st-5th graders. Held at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
October 2013
Walking Tour of the Isle of Wight Courthouse Complex
3 p.m. October 5
Join us as we explore this 19th, 20th and 21st century site and share the story of its beginnings as well as a few tales of capers and duels. This tour begins and ends at Boykin’s Tavern.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. October 14
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Pumpkins.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. October 19
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. October 19
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
November 2013
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. November 11
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Colonial Harvest Celebrations.
Boykin’s Tavern Scarecrow Muster: Something to Crow About!
11 a.m.-4 p.m. November 16
A grouping of crows is called a murder, a storytelling or a muster. Our muster of scarecrows on the lawn of Boykin’s Tavern will accent the agricultural focus of our county as we celebrate the bounty of fall. Enter your own scarecrow creation in this contest for a chance to win the title of King Crow.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. November 16
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
Walking Tour of Nike Park
2 p.m. November 16
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park.
Curatorial Talk
2:30 p.m. November 17
Isle of Wight County Museum Curator Tracey Neikirk discusses archaeology in Isle of Wight County at the Isle of Wight County Museum.
Happy Birthday, Benjamin Huger!
10 a.m.-4 p.m. November 22
Visit the museum to learn about the life of Benjamin Huger, the career U.S. Army ordnance officer who fought with distinction during the Mexican-American War and served as a Confederate general during the Civil War.
Walking Tour of Fort Huger
10 a.m. November 22
Visit this Civil War fort - on Benjamin Huger's birthday - and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
December 2013
Victorian Shadowlight Theater’s Magic of the Holidays
2:30 and 4 p.m. December 7
Experience one of the oldest forms of moving picture entertainment – a shadow puppet play about the magic of the holidays in the 1890s! This charming and nostalgic program held at the Isle of Wight County Museum will enchant all ages, and Victorian Shadowlight Theater recreates this old world experience with a storyteller, shadow puppeteers, lighting and sound effects. Perfect for all ages! $10 per person. Registration and pre-payment required.
Tell Me a Story at the Isle of Wight County Museum
10 a.m. December 9
This program, geared for children ages 3 to 5, introduces youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight and features books, songs and games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Theme: Victorian Christmas.
Holidays at the Tavern
1-5 p.m. December 14
Boykin's Tavern is decorated for the holidays with greenery and period decorations. Stop by for a visit with St. Nick, refreshments, a visit with some living historians and the Regency Society of Virginia, a discussion of holiday history, a few memories of Christmas past or a last minute Christmas gift. Pre-registration for visits with St. Nick are suggested.
Walking Tour of Fort Boykin
3 p.m. December 15
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed to protect the Jamestown colonists from Native Americans and raiding Spaniards. Today, Fort Boykin remains essentially intact and constitutes a well-preserved example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Official event of Isle of Wight County Sesquicentennial Committee.
NOTE: All events are subject to cancellation as well as date, time and admission changes.
Contact us
Jennifer Williams, Historic Resources Manager, 757-357-0115
Tracey Neikirk - Isle of Wight County Museum Curator, 757-356-1014
Denise Haynes - Isle of Wight County Museum Administrator, 757-356-1223
Isle of Wight County Historic Resources Division, Department of Tourism
Tracey Neikirk - Isle of Wight County Museum Curator, 757-356-1014
Denise Haynes - Isle of Wight County Museum Administrator, 757-356-1223
Isle of Wight County Historic Resources Division, Department of Tourism
