2020 Events
January 2020
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. January 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: Bears.
LUNCH & LEARN: BATTLE OF MACKIE'S MILL
12:30 p.m. January 16
This lecture will commemorate the 239th anniversary of the American Revolution's Mackie’s Mill engagement, the Jan. 16, 1781, skirmish between local militia and Benedict Arnold’s forces.
THE REAL JOHN HENRY
2 p.m. January 26
In May 1954, Baldwin built a 4,500-horsepower steam turbine-electric locomotive for freight service on the Norfolk & Western Railway. It was nicknamed the “Jawn Henry” after the legend of John Henry, a rock driller who famously raced against a steam drill and won – only to die immediately after. The locomotive was retired from the Norfolk & Western Railway roster on January 4, 1958.
February 2020
BATTLE OF SMITHFIELD DRIVING TOUR
10 a.m. February 1
2020 marks the 156th anniversary of the Battle of Smithfield. Meet your guide at the museum for a brief overview of this Civil War battle. Afterwards, program participants will self-drive to several sites in Isle of Wight County to note the locations of significant events from January 30 to February 2, 1864. Reservations are required.
WALKING TOUR OF WINDSOR CASTLE
2 p.m. February 8
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. February 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: Pigs.
THE ROAD TO SUFFOLK
2 p.m. February 23
In the early years of the American Revolution, Virginia was spared invasion by British armies. That all changed in 1779 with the first of three successive incursions. The Road to Suffolk – linking the towns of Portsmouth, Suffolk and Smithfield – played a significant role in these invasions and lead to the ultimate victory at the town of York. Local history enthusiast Rob Friar will discuss this road and identify particular occurrences along its path during the last years of our War of Independence.
March 2020
WINDSOR CASTLE WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. March 7
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. March 12
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: Kites.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. March 14
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19 - PI DAY: A FORMULA FOR FOODIE FUN
11 a.m. March 14
Pi Day is celebrated each year on March 14 to allow math fans to recite the infinite digits of the Greek letter π, eat pie and work on fun math problems. Our lecture on vintage cookery will highlight some of your grandmother’s favorite mid-century pie recipes. However, before the pie tasting, you’ll have to wow our math whiz volunteer and former Nike guided missile mechanic Ira Abbott with your recitation of pi. (He will also have some math challenges for those brave enough to re-create some calculations necessary for the launch of Nike-Ajax missiles.) Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
WINDSOR'S 118TH BIRTHDAY: A CELEBRATION OF HISTORY, RAILROADING AND JAWN HENRY
2 p.m. March 15
In honor of the Town of Windsor’s 118th birthday, the Isle of Wight County Museum will present a railroad-themed program. The Town of Windsor was founded in 1902, but Windsor Station was established by the Norfolk & Petersburg Railway in 1859. This program will feature traditional railroad songs by The Abeels of Sussex and a presentation of some Norfolk & Western Railway history including a discussion of the folk hero John Henry, the legendary “steel drivin’ man,” and railroad successor Jawn Henry, a coal-burning 4500 HP steam-turbine-electric locomotive. John helped build the railroad while Jawn helped push 10,000-ton coal trains over the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is no charge for this event, but attendees may be asked to join in a spirited rendition of Happy Birthday. Will there be cake? Of course! Join us for this fun historical and musical event at the Windsor Ruritan Club, 14 Community Drive, Windsor, Va. 23487.
TO BE RESCHEDULED DUE TO COVID-19 - VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
2 p.m. March 29
As the nation commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the museum will host speaker Albert Burckard who will give a brief synopsis of the war and its origins as well as an overview of the Battle of FSB Ripcord where he distinguished himself as the commanding officer of Company A, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during a combat assault at Fire Support Base RIPCORD, Republic of Vietnam.
April 2020
CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19 - WINDSOR CASTLE WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. April 4
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. April 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: Bunnies.
LUNCH & LEARN: 108TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SINKING OF THE RMS TITANIC
12:30 p.m. April 15
Discover the tragic history behind the RMS Titanic, the British passenger line that sank in the North Atlantic Ocean in 1912 after striking an iceberg on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City. You will also learn about the connection between the Titanic and Smithfield.
WALKING TOUR OF NIKE PARK
2 p.m. April 18
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
DISTILLED HISTORY
5 p.m. April 25
In 1607, Jamestown colonist Thomas Studley recorded that after their ships departed, “there remained neither tavern, beerehouse,” and so “our drink was water.” This was contrary to the nature of the English. The Powhatan made no alcoholic beverages, nor did most of the tribes along the Eastern seaboard. The Brits had to figure out how to quench their thirst on their own. Join us for this historic program on alcohol in the New World – everything from the fermenting of grains to jugs of whiskey sold in country stores and stills buried in backyards. Samples from Blue Sky Distillery in Smithfield will be offered. Reservations are required. $25 per person.
MAY 2020
WINDSOR CASTLE DEDICATION CEREMONY
1-5 p.m. May 9
Windsor Castle’s dedication ceremony will include tours of the house and the opening of its exhibits.
LUNCH & LEARN: REVOLUTIONARY WAR HERO JOSIAH PARKER'S 269TH BIRTHDAY
12:30 p.m. May 11
Isle of Wight County native Josiah Parker was a Revolutionary soldier and politician. He served in Virginia under George Washington, becoming a major in 1776 and a colonel the following year. He saw action at the battles of Trenton, Princeton and Brandywine.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. May 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: Flowers.
LUNCH & LEARN: 156TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF NEW MARKET
12:30 p.m. May 15
The Battle of New Market was fought on May 15, 1864, in Virginia during the Valley Campaigns of 1864 in the American Civil War. A makeshift Confederate army of 4,100 men, which included cadets from the Virginia Military Institute, defeated Union Major General Franz Sigel and his Army of the Shenandoah.
DRAWING DAY
10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 16
Whatever your medium, Drawing Day is the day dedicated to the artist inside all of us. Pack your pencil, charcoals or crayons for your visit to the museum today to sketch something on display, and share your creations with us on social media. Free admission for all artistes – professional, aspiring or beginners.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. May 23
10 a.m. Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
June 2020
ISLE OF WIGHT COURTHOUSE COMPLEX WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. June 13
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.
NIKE PARK WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. June 13
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
July 2020
THE WORLD'S OLDEST HAM'S BIRTHDAY SLEEPOVER
6-7 p.m. July 10
Calling all well-loved teddy bears, dogs, unicorns and hippos for a NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM! The World’s Oldest Ham’s birthday is tomorrow, and he’d like nothing more than to have an evening of fun with some of his friends. Kids are encouraged to put on their PJs and bring their favorite stuffed animal or doll to the museum. Museum staff will read a bedtime story or two before our special guests are tucked in. Kids will head home, but their stuffed animal friends will stay the night. Pick up the overnight guests on the morning of the World’s Oldest Ham’s birthday while hearing about everyone's adventures. Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
THE PET HAM'S 118TH BIRTHDAY
10:30 a.m.-Noon July 11
The world’s oldest ham turns 118. 118 is the atomic number of oganesson, the name of a 255-episode Singaporean television drama and the emergency at sea telephone number in Japan. More importantly, 118 is a good excuse for cake. Join us in this annual tribute to the birthday boy, and help us launch our annual Pan Ham photo contest. Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. July 18
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
LUNCH & LEARN: BRIGADIER JOHN MARSHALL VS. PRIVATEER JOHN SINCLAIR
12:30 p.m. July 22
Discover the colorful story of an event that happened on Church Street 226 years ago involving the cavalry, gunpowder and a Unicorn.
August 2020
WALKING TOUR OF NIKE PARK
2 p.m. August 22
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
September 2020
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. September 10
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: Apples.
CHURCH STREET WALKING TOUR
12:30 p.m. September 12
Join us as we stroll down Church Street to explore the history of this fascinating area. Tour begins and ends at the museum.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. September 26
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
BATTLE OF SMITHFIELD WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. September 26
Meet a Union soldier at the museum for a lecture and a walk down Church Street as he details his experiences in this battle.
October 2020
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. October 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: Fall and Spiders.
FORT BOYKIN WALKING TOUR
12:30 p.m. October 10
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed following the 1622 Indian Attack. Today, Fort Boykin constitutes an example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet at Fort Boykin.
ISLE OF WIGHT COURTHOUSE COMPLEX WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. October 17
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.
NIKE PARK WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. October 17
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
November 2020
THE HISTORY OF VETERANS DAY
2 p.m. November 8
Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919. It was the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Learn the history of this national observance with our lecturer Al Coke, and learn of some of Isle of Wight County’s brave veterans. Veterans are encouraged to attend and share their stories.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. November 12
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: Thanksgiving.
LUNCH & LEARN: A VITAL CONNECTION: THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE
12:30 p.m. November 13
Opened November 17, 1928, the James River Bridge has linked Warwick County/Newport News to Isle of Wight County for 92 years. This look-back examines life before the bridge - when colonial ferries and steamers served this purpose. The historical journey begins with the dedication of the original crossing which was hailed as the world’s longest bridge over water. It will continue through the construction of the current structure, and it will further detail the story of how the bridge received its official name.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BENJAMIN HUGER!
2 p.m. November 22
Join us for this lecture about the life of Benjamin Huger, 1805-1877, 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. Isle of Wight County’s Fort Huger is named for him.
December 2020
AN EVENING WITH ST. NICK
6-8 p.m. December 4
Visit the jolly ol’ elf and enjoy an evening of holiday refreshments, crafts and a special reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. Perfect for families. Make your visit with St. Nick a little more special. Bring a wrapped gift for St. Nick to give to your child. Pre-registration will give you the opportunity to provide some information about your child so St. Nick can talk with him or her! Call the head elf for your appointment: 757-357-0115.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. December 10
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: Snowflakes.
NOTE: All events are subject to cancellation as well as changes to date, time and admission fees
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. January 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: Bears.
LUNCH & LEARN: BATTLE OF MACKIE'S MILL
12:30 p.m. January 16
This lecture will commemorate the 239th anniversary of the American Revolution's Mackie’s Mill engagement, the Jan. 16, 1781, skirmish between local militia and Benedict Arnold’s forces.
THE REAL JOHN HENRY
2 p.m. January 26
In May 1954, Baldwin built a 4,500-horsepower steam turbine-electric locomotive for freight service on the Norfolk & Western Railway. It was nicknamed the “Jawn Henry” after the legend of John Henry, a rock driller who famously raced against a steam drill and won – only to die immediately after. The locomotive was retired from the Norfolk & Western Railway roster on January 4, 1958.
February 2020
BATTLE OF SMITHFIELD DRIVING TOUR
10 a.m. February 1
2020 marks the 156th anniversary of the Battle of Smithfield. Meet your guide at the museum for a brief overview of this Civil War battle. Afterwards, program participants will self-drive to several sites in Isle of Wight County to note the locations of significant events from January 30 to February 2, 1864. Reservations are required.
WALKING TOUR OF WINDSOR CASTLE
2 p.m. February 8
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. February 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: Pigs.
THE ROAD TO SUFFOLK
2 p.m. February 23
In the early years of the American Revolution, Virginia was spared invasion by British armies. That all changed in 1779 with the first of three successive incursions. The Road to Suffolk – linking the towns of Portsmouth, Suffolk and Smithfield – played a significant role in these invasions and lead to the ultimate victory at the town of York. Local history enthusiast Rob Friar will discuss this road and identify particular occurrences along its path during the last years of our War of Independence.
March 2020
WINDSOR CASTLE WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. March 7
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. March 12
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: Kites.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. March 14
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19 - PI DAY: A FORMULA FOR FOODIE FUN
11 a.m. March 14
Pi Day is celebrated each year on March 14 to allow math fans to recite the infinite digits of the Greek letter π, eat pie and work on fun math problems. Our lecture on vintage cookery will highlight some of your grandmother’s favorite mid-century pie recipes. However, before the pie tasting, you’ll have to wow our math whiz volunteer and former Nike guided missile mechanic Ira Abbott with your recitation of pi. (He will also have some math challenges for those brave enough to re-create some calculations necessary for the launch of Nike-Ajax missiles.) Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
WINDSOR'S 118TH BIRTHDAY: A CELEBRATION OF HISTORY, RAILROADING AND JAWN HENRY
2 p.m. March 15
In honor of the Town of Windsor’s 118th birthday, the Isle of Wight County Museum will present a railroad-themed program. The Town of Windsor was founded in 1902, but Windsor Station was established by the Norfolk & Petersburg Railway in 1859. This program will feature traditional railroad songs by The Abeels of Sussex and a presentation of some Norfolk & Western Railway history including a discussion of the folk hero John Henry, the legendary “steel drivin’ man,” and railroad successor Jawn Henry, a coal-burning 4500 HP steam-turbine-electric locomotive. John helped build the railroad while Jawn helped push 10,000-ton coal trains over the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is no charge for this event, but attendees may be asked to join in a spirited rendition of Happy Birthday. Will there be cake? Of course! Join us for this fun historical and musical event at the Windsor Ruritan Club, 14 Community Drive, Windsor, Va. 23487.
TO BE RESCHEDULED DUE TO COVID-19 - VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
2 p.m. March 29
As the nation commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, the museum will host speaker Albert Burckard who will give a brief synopsis of the war and its origins as well as an overview of the Battle of FSB Ripcord where he distinguished himself as the commanding officer of Company A, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during a combat assault at Fire Support Base RIPCORD, Republic of Vietnam.
April 2020
CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19 - WINDSOR CASTLE WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. April 4
From the site's pre-colonial existence to the present day, Windsor Castle tells the fascinating history of the development of Smithfield. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet on the grounds near the house.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. April 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: Bunnies.
LUNCH & LEARN: 108TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SINKING OF THE RMS TITANIC
12:30 p.m. April 15
Discover the tragic history behind the RMS Titanic, the British passenger line that sank in the North Atlantic Ocean in 1912 after striking an iceberg on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City. You will also learn about the connection between the Titanic and Smithfield.
WALKING TOUR OF NIKE PARK
2 p.m. April 18
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
DISTILLED HISTORY
5 p.m. April 25
In 1607, Jamestown colonist Thomas Studley recorded that after their ships departed, “there remained neither tavern, beerehouse,” and so “our drink was water.” This was contrary to the nature of the English. The Powhatan made no alcoholic beverages, nor did most of the tribes along the Eastern seaboard. The Brits had to figure out how to quench their thirst on their own. Join us for this historic program on alcohol in the New World – everything from the fermenting of grains to jugs of whiskey sold in country stores and stills buried in backyards. Samples from Blue Sky Distillery in Smithfield will be offered. Reservations are required. $25 per person.
MAY 2020
WINDSOR CASTLE DEDICATION CEREMONY
1-5 p.m. May 9
Windsor Castle’s dedication ceremony will include tours of the house and the opening of its exhibits.
LUNCH & LEARN: REVOLUTIONARY WAR HERO JOSIAH PARKER'S 269TH BIRTHDAY
12:30 p.m. May 11
Isle of Wight County native Josiah Parker was a Revolutionary soldier and politician. He served in Virginia under George Washington, becoming a major in 1776 and a colonel the following year. He saw action at the battles of Trenton, Princeton and Brandywine.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. May 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: Flowers.
LUNCH & LEARN: 156TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF NEW MARKET
12:30 p.m. May 15
The Battle of New Market was fought on May 15, 1864, in Virginia during the Valley Campaigns of 1864 in the American Civil War. A makeshift Confederate army of 4,100 men, which included cadets from the Virginia Military Institute, defeated Union Major General Franz Sigel and his Army of the Shenandoah.
DRAWING DAY
10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 16
Whatever your medium, Drawing Day is the day dedicated to the artist inside all of us. Pack your pencil, charcoals or crayons for your visit to the museum today to sketch something on display, and share your creations with us on social media. Free admission for all artistes – professional, aspiring or beginners.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. May 23
10 a.m. Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
June 2020
ISLE OF WIGHT COURTHOUSE COMPLEX WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. June 13
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.
NIKE PARK WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. June 13
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
July 2020
THE WORLD'S OLDEST HAM'S BIRTHDAY SLEEPOVER
6-7 p.m. July 10
Calling all well-loved teddy bears, dogs, unicorns and hippos for a NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM! The World’s Oldest Ham’s birthday is tomorrow, and he’d like nothing more than to have an evening of fun with some of his friends. Kids are encouraged to put on their PJs and bring their favorite stuffed animal or doll to the museum. Museum staff will read a bedtime story or two before our special guests are tucked in. Kids will head home, but their stuffed animal friends will stay the night. Pick up the overnight guests on the morning of the World’s Oldest Ham’s birthday while hearing about everyone's adventures. Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
THE PET HAM'S 118TH BIRTHDAY
10:30 a.m.-Noon July 11
The world’s oldest ham turns 118. 118 is the atomic number of oganesson, the name of a 255-episode Singaporean television drama and the emergency at sea telephone number in Japan. More importantly, 118 is a good excuse for cake. Join us in this annual tribute to the birthday boy, and help us launch our annual Pan Ham photo contest. Also here to help us celebrate will be the Blackwater Regional Library.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. July 18
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
LUNCH & LEARN: BRIGADIER JOHN MARSHALL VS. PRIVATEER JOHN SINCLAIR
12:30 p.m. July 22
Discover the colorful story of an event that happened on Church Street 226 years ago involving the cavalry, gunpowder and a Unicorn.
August 2020
WALKING TOUR OF NIKE PARK
2 p.m. August 22
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
September 2020
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. September 10
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: Apples.
CHURCH STREET WALKING TOUR
12:30 p.m. September 12
Join us as we stroll down Church Street to explore the history of this fascinating area. Tour begins and ends at the museum.
FORT HUGER WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. September 26
Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. Tour meets at Fort Huger.
BATTLE OF SMITHFIELD WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. September 26
Meet a Union soldier at the museum for a lecture and a walk down Church Street as he details his experiences in this battle.
October 2020
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. October 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: Fall and Spiders.
FORT BOYKIN WALKING TOUR
12:30 p.m. October 10
Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623 when a fort known as the Castle was constructed following the 1622 Indian Attack. Today, Fort Boykin constitutes an example of military architecture of the Civil War era. Join us for this free walking tour through history. Meet at Fort Boykin.
ISLE OF WIGHT COURTHOUSE COMPLEX WALKING TOUR
10 a.m. October 17
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.
NIKE PARK WALKING TOUR
2 p.m. October 17
Visit one of the Cold War’s few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard, along with former missile mechanic Ira Abbott, 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 in the recreation hall (former barracks) at Nike Park.
November 2020
THE HISTORY OF VETERANS DAY
2 p.m. November 8
Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919. It was the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Learn the history of this national observance with our lecturer Al Coke, and learn of some of Isle of Wight County’s brave veterans. Veterans are encouraged to attend and share their stories.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. November 12
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: Thanksgiving.
LUNCH & LEARN: A VITAL CONNECTION: THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE
12:30 p.m. November 13
Opened November 17, 1928, the James River Bridge has linked Warwick County/Newport News to Isle of Wight County for 92 years. This look-back examines life before the bridge - when colonial ferries and steamers served this purpose. The historical journey begins with the dedication of the original crossing which was hailed as the world’s longest bridge over water. It will continue through the construction of the current structure, and it will further detail the story of how the bridge received its official name.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BENJAMIN HUGER!
2 p.m. November 22
Join us for this lecture about the life of Benjamin Huger, 1805-1877, 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. Isle of Wight County’s Fort Huger is named for him.
December 2020
AN EVENING WITH ST. NICK
6-8 p.m. December 4
Visit the jolly ol’ elf and enjoy an evening of holiday refreshments, crafts and a special reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. Perfect for families. Make your visit with St. Nick a little more special. Bring a wrapped gift for St. Nick to give to your child. Pre-registration will give you the opportunity to provide some information about your child so St. Nick can talk with him or her! Call the head elf for your appointment: 757-357-0115.
TELL ME A STORY
10 a.m. December 10
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: Snowflakes.
NOTE: All events are subject to cancellation as well as changes to date, time and admission fees