Andrew Lawler to Discuss ‘A Perfect Frenzy’ and Events that Spurred the American Revolution

On the eve of the American Revolution 250 years ago, the residents of Princess Anne County (present-day Virginia Beach) were faced with the difficult decision to remain loyal to King George and England or support their home in Virginia.   

Virginia’s Royal Governor, Lord Dunmore, brought British troops and a regiment of formerly enslaved recruits to Princess Anne to suppress rebellion and bully locals into pledging oaths of loyalty.   

When the local militia stood up to Dunmore at Kemps Landing (present-day Kempsville) in November 1775, the overmatched patriots were the first to die in battle in revolutionary Virginia. Dunmore issued a proclamation at Kemps Landing promising freedom to slaves belonging to patriot owners if they served in the British military. This created a different dimension to what revolution, independence and freedom might mean for Virginians.   

National best-selling author Andrew Lawler will present his account of these events and more as outlined in his new book, “A Perfect Frenzy: A Royal Governor, His Black Allies, and the Crisis that Spurred the American Revolution" at 7 p.m., Feb. 3, in the Miller Studio at Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Market St. in Town Center.   

Lawler’s new book recounts the fascinating story behind pivotal events that occurred here in Virginia Beach 250 years ago and changed the course of the nation’s history.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

The presentation is sponsored by the Virginia Beach VA250 Committee — part of the statewide commission to commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence.   

The event is free and open to the public, however reservations are recommended. Lawler will be available to sign books following his presentation. Reserve your seat today. For more information, call 757-385-8573.  

• Reserve free ticket