History Comes Alive in Virginia Beach: 250th Commemoration of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing

The City of Virginia Beach in partnership with the VA250 Committee will host an event honoring the 250th anniversary of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing at City View Park, 2073 Kempsville Road,) Nov. 15 and Nov. 16. This free, public commemoration is a part of the statewide Virginia Semiquincentennial (“VA250”) observance honoring Virginia’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. 

What to Expect 

• Authentic Revolutionary War-era encampment on the morning of Nov. 15 and Nov. 16 
• 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) noon, Nov. 15 
• Beginning at 11 a.m., Nov. 16, 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 

Why it Matters 
This event will bring to life an important but often overlooked moment in the lead up to the American Revolution and Virginia Beach’s meaningful contribution to America’s fight for independence. The Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing occurred Nov. 15, 1775, when 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. 

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.   

About VA250 Additional Upcoming Events 
The Virginia Semiquincentennial (VA250) marks 250 years of the American Revolution’s legacy in Virginia. Through a series of events, commemorations, educational programs and community celebrations, VA250 highlights the people, places and ideas rooted in the commonwealth that helped birth a nation. 

For a list of upcoming VA250 events, visit VA250.org/virginia-beach. 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.