By Nancy Dunham
There was more to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars than the grand homes and mansions of the elite. There were thousands of common people who played major roles in keeping the farms and commerce of the times thriving.
Consider the family that operated the historic
Chapman/Beverley Mill that played an important role during the Civil War. The mill was recently restored and now visitors can learn about the 19th century industrial center and the family that operated it.
There's perhaps no better time to discover the story behind the mill than as presented by a living historian portraying Ellen Chapman, widow of John Chapman. The presentation will tell how the Chapmans contributed to the war and how John Chapman was ruined economically, physically and emotionally by the Civil War.
Here's all you need to know:
Where: Historic Chapmans/Beverley Mill, Broad Run, Virginia. The mill is located on the Fauquier-Prince William border along Broad run, north of Interstate 66 and Route 55.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, August 15
Details: $5; children under age 12 free;
http://www.chapmansmill.org/