Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop

Rising Sun Tavern Independence Day isn’t just a date – it’s a story, a debate, and a decision that changed the course of history. Historically, taverns served as crucial venues where our founding fathers debated and resolved to establish an independent nation. Before the house at 1304 Caroline Street became a tavern, the first owner, Charles Washington, signed the Leedstown Resolves – one of the first acts of resistance to the Stamp Act. So, there’s no better place to raise a glass to 250 years

Public reading of the Declaration of Independence in celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. Multiple sessions at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.

Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s freedom with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. Living historians will read live from the steps in front of the 18th century building at 11am, 1 pm & 3 pm. Join us for this FREE community event as we honor the enduring legacy of the Declaration. It’s a fun Fourth of July tradition for the entire family! An Evening of Absinthe at the Apothecary

Ferry Farm Be part of America’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, at George Washington’s Ferry Farm! This family-friendly Americana-themed Independence Day event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our nation in a setting rich with Revolutionary history. Join us for a day filled with games, hands-on activities, crafts, living history demonstrations, reenactors, and engaging programs presented by community organizations from across t

Evening event featuring absinthe at the Apothecary. Sessions at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale Monday, June 15, 2026.

Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop Tickets for this event will go on sale Monday, June 15, 2026. Step into the fascinating world of absinthe during this immersive evening that blends history, horticulture, and hands‑on learning. The experience unfolds in three engaging parts, beginning with a guided garden tour where you’ll discover the plants traditionally used to make absinthe, including anise, fennel, wormwood, lemon balm, and hyssop. From there, explore the rich history of absinthe—from its origins

Step into our historic Federal-era tavern and immerse yourself in the golden age of piracy and privateering. Throughout the evening, you will hear tales of pirates and poachers who once ruled the waterways, while enjoying historically inspired punches and light fare. As the night unfolds, the Rappahannock Whalers will bring the tavern to life with raucous sea shanties—performed as they were in the age of sail. This event is limited to guests aged 21+. Tickets will go on sale Monday, July 13th. B

Mary Washington House Raise a glass to 250 years as we honor America's legacy! Washington Heritage Museums announces the eleventh annual Bourbon and Boxwood event, on October 3, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. (Please note the new time!) This year, we are proudly celebrating the historic 250th anniversaries of both Virginia and the United States, and we hope you will join us for this grand event. Bourbon and Boxwood, the name, evokes George Washington’s success as a distiller and Mary Washington’s love o

Discover colonial life at our first annual Homeschool History Day—your passport to the past! Washington Heritage Museums invites homeschool families with students ages 6 and up to enjoy immersive, educator-led tours at our three historic sites: Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Mary Washington House and Rising Sun Tavern. In celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, students and educators may visit one, two, or all three museums for just $2.50 per person, per museum. Interpreters wearing period