April 12-13 , Even Temper: The Art Of Hardening Steel In A Frontier Forge
Flame and hammer. The tools and importance of the blacksmith have been the same for centuries. On the vast Virginia frontier of the late 18th century, the skills of a smith were highly desired, though deeply bound in the nature of the trade. Witness the blacksmiths of Martin’s Station temper steel and create a masterpiece from deep within in the heart of our frontier forge.
May 9-11 America’s First Frontier: A 250th Celebration
In the spring of 1775, men, women, and children head west, deep into the untamed wilderness. The trace they follow leads to a life of freedom. However, the journey is shrouded by the onset of a great revolution. Community becomes key. Settlements a beacon in the wilderness. Travel to Martin’s Station: Virginia’s final point of rest and resupply. Find wares of all types amongst the merchants and tradesmen. Meet the famed individuals who traverse the trace and the indigenous peoples they encounter. Immerse yourself in a story 250 years in the making. Join us in celebrating Virginia: America’s First Frontier.
June 14-15 In Defense Of Liberty
The shadow of revolution darkens Powell’s Valley. Provisions are laid. Powder and ball are gathered. Journey to Martin’s Station and join the men of Fincastle County as they prepare to travel to Shepherdstown. Upon assembly, if necessity commands, they will defend the liberty of Virginia.
June 14 The Thread Of Independence
The Battle of Bunker Hill is now infamous. The effects of revolution are spilling onto the Virginia frontier and men have mustered, preparing to march in defense of liberty. A heartfelt symbol of home is presented, both as a reminder and a warning. Sit amongst the women of Martin’s Station, hear the talk of sacrifice and hardship, and watch as they sew the very symbol with which this new nation will solidify its freedom.
June 28th A Shot Of Vengeance
Artillery lends dignity to what would otherwise be considered a vulgar brawl. Join the artillery encampment at Martin’s Station, visit with “Vengeance” and her crew, and experience the equipment and techniques of artillery on the frontier during the American Revolution.
July 4th A Declaration of Independence
The Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, leaving ties to the English crown in ruin and the North American colonies in an open state of rebellion. Join Captain Martin as word of liberty reaches the western edges of the Virginia colony. Listen as he and his company determine how the actions of those in Congress will impact the lives and define the fate of the frontier.
July 12-13 As The Hammer Falls
With ties to England severed, all imports to the American colonies have abruptly ended. Firelocks, swords, axes, and knives are now necessary but in short supply. Blacksmiths across Virginia are being called upon. Without their knowledge, skill, and willingness to serve, the hopes of these new united colonies may be lost. Join the blacksmiths at Martin’s Station as they demonstrate their craft and talk about supplying a company at the onset of the revolution.
Aug 16-17 Frontier Justice
Law in the west is swift and harsh. An autocratic system overshadows theocracy. Verdicts are defined not by the law of man, but by the nature of the offense. Colonel Preston has arrived at Martin’s Station to convene court. Listen carefully as he hands down a deserter’s verdict and dispenses a unique brand of frontier justice.
Aug 23 The Earthen Oven
Bread and meat are common fare found along the western fringes of the Virginia frontier. Bread, however, requires certain equipment and technique to produce. Join our bakers as they fire the oven and bake a variety of breads and treats for those seeking rest and refuge within the walls of Joseph Martin’s station.
Sept 1 Apprentices and Journeymen
During the 18th century, master craftsmen taught skills and labor through apprenticeships. The techniques learned were invaluable and became a necessary part of the labor force needed to build a new nation. Join the apprentices and masters of Martin’s Station as they explain their guilds and demonstrate their skills.
Sept 13-14 Unbroken: Heroines of the Virginia Frontier
Across Virginia, women made the journey into the wilderness with hearts full of hope. They established new homes and created opportunities for generations to come. Travel the hunter’s trace to Martin’s Station and join the women of Powell’s Valley as they harness the unbreakable spirit and pay homage to the women who birthed a new and free nation.
Sept 19-21 Forting Up
Imagine finding yourself approaching a beacon of rest and resupply with nothing but the clothes on your back. You are miles, days, beyond the fringes of civilization and a wooden palisade is all the stands between you and the untamed wilderness. Danger lurks within the shadows, but opportunity arises each day with the sun. Join the men and women of Martin’s Station and immerse yourself in the lives of those who helped to forge this great nation and open America’s “first” west.
This program is designed to take living history and experimental archaeology to a new level. Participants will find themselves transported into the 18th century and receive a once in a lifetime experience.
October 10-12 Martin’s Station Fall Encampment
A long summer has given way to autumn. The harvest of Powell’s Valley abounds. Our community is gathering to give thanks and celebrate the fruits of their hard labor. Journey to Joseph Martin’s Station, on the far reaches of the Virginia frontier, and visit with skilled tradesmen, mingle with tidewater merchants, and enjoy a majestic celebration amongst our family and friends.
Dec 13 A Frontier Christmas
As cold winds and long shadows fill Powell’s Valley, journey to Joseph Martin’s station for an evening of glad tidings and good cheer. Join the historic Yuletide celebration and experience the holiday season as it abounds amongst Martin’s Company.