Since June 1948, Hampton has held the distinction of being the only national historic site designated for its “outstanding merit as an architectural monument" and the story of its preservation was the catalyst for the establishment of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Over the past 75 years, Hampton has welcomed visitors to explore Hampton Hall, its surrounding gardens, landscape, structures, and the quarters once used by enslaved African Americans. Today, scholars, visitors, and the surrounding communities continue to reflect upon and broaden the understanding of the ways Hampton’s story embodies the complexity of the American experience.
On June 25th we will celebrate Hampton’s legacy of preservation and explore the stories of those who lived and worked at Hampton. Activities will include guided mansion and farm tours, and a special presentation "Preserving the American Experience: Sully's 'Lady with a Harp' at Hampton House," given by Jennifer Riddell, Manager of Interpretation, Learning and Engagement at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. This presentation will explore how a treasure of American painting helped to save to treasure of American architecture.
June 25th Schedule of Events
10:00 a.m. - Guided tour of mansion (tickets available at Visitor Center)
11:00 a.m. - “Families, Farming, and Freedom" program at farm
2:00 p.m. - "Preserving the American Experience: Sully's 'Lady with a Harp' at Hampton House" presentation by Jennifer Riddell of the National Gallery of Art
3:00 p.m. - Mansion open house featuring harp musical performances in the Great Hall
All events and parking are free.
Space is limited to 50 visitors for the 2:00 p.m. program in the Orangery.
Tags: commemoration preservation
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service