Step into History: Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing

Have you ever wanted to know what it’s like to walk a real battlefield where patriots once stood, hear the crack of a musket and see history unfold before your eyes? On Nov. 15-16, you’ll have that chance.  

The City of Virginia Beach invites you to join the 250th anniversary commemoration of the Skirmish at Kemps Landing – a pivotal but often overlooked moment in Virginia’s Revolutionary story. 

On Nov. 15, 1775, in what is now Virginia Beach, local patriots clashed with British forces in a bold act of defiance. British forces, under Lord Dunmore, engaged the Princess Anne County militia in what would result in the first Patriot casualties in Virginia.  

In the aftermath, Dunmore stayed at a Loyalist home in Kemp’s Landing and issued his proclamation offering freedom to enslaved people who joined the British Cause (the “Ethiopian Regiment”), which had ripple effects in the region. 

History Comes Alive 

The reenactment is part of the VA250 (Virginia American Revolution 250) signature event calendar and will be held at Virginia Beach’s City View Park, 2073 Kempsville Road. Two opportunities are available:  

• Saturday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  
• Sunday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

The day will include: 

• Authentic Revolutionary War-era encampment on Saturday and Sunday morning 
• A full schedule of demonstrations including a battle reenactment, drill and recruitment segments 
• A formal commemoration ceremony hosted by the local chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) on Saturday at noon 
• On Sunday, beginning at 11 a.m., a historical church service and drill followed by further demonstrations through early afternoon 
• Children’s activities to introduce younger generations to this important chapter in America’s founding story 
   

Schedule 

Saturday, Nov. 15 

• 10 a.m. - Camp Life Demonstration 
• 11 a.m. - Recruitment and Drill 
• 11:30 a.m. - Artillery Demonstration  
• Noon - SAR 250th Commemoration Ceremony 
• 1 p.m. - Demonstration of 18th Century Battle/Tactics 
• 2 p.m. - Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing Reenactment 
• 2:30 p.m. - Dunmore Proclamation, Freeholders Meeting/Debate 
• 3 p.m. - Recruitment & Drill 
• 3:30 p.m. - Artillery Demonstration 
• 4 p.m. - Site Closes to Public 

Sunday, Nov. 16 

• 10 a.m. - Camp Life Demonstration 
• 11 a.m. - 18th Century Church Service 
• 11:30 a.m. - Recruitment and Drill  
• Noon - Artillery Demonstration 
• 12:30 p.m. - Demonstration of 18th Century Battle/Tactics 
• 1:30 p.m. - Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing Reenactment 
• 2 p.m. - Dunmore Proclamation, Freeholders Meeting/Debate 
• 2:30 p.m. - Artillery Demonstration 
• 3 p.m. - Event Ends, Site Closes to Public 

Know Before You Go 

• City View Park has about 200 spaces and overflow parking will be available at Tallwood Elementary School, 2025 Kempsville Road. 
• Attendees may bring food and beverages, but no alcohol is allowed. 
• Attendees are also encouraged to bring blankets or folding chairs. 
• Due to loud noises, parents bringing young children may want to consider using hearing protection. 

Celebrate 250 Years of History

This event is part of the statewide VA250 celebration, which commemorates 250 years of Virginia’s contribution to the birth and growth of the United States. Make plans now to attend this weekend of patriotism, remembrance and fun. For more details about this and other VA250 events, visit VA250.org. 

For information about Sail250®, during which an international fleet of tall ships and military vessels will gather at the Lynnhaven Roads anchorage off the Virginia Beach coast, visit Sail250Virginia.com.