As part of the 250th commemoration of the Culpeper Minute Men’s march to the Battle of Great Bridge, the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) donated educational materials to Culpeper County Public Schools’ elementary schools. The donation is designed to help teachers spark student interest in Culpeper’s colonial history and Revolutionary War heritage.
Each school received a container filled with hands-on items that depict daily life during the Revolutionary era. The materials will support instruction and student engagement around Virginia’s role in the war for independence, including the contribution of Culpeper citizens to the patriot cause.The educational tubs include artifacts, replicas, and activity resources, funded by local donations and a grant from the Virginia DAR State Executive Committee. The DAR chapter is also producing a series of short videos for classroom use.
“We believe that having items available for student interaction, which depict life during this period, will stimulate students' interest in Culpeper during this vibrant chapter of our county’s history,” said Kathy Garrett, DAR representative. “Our goal is to help elementary teachers instill a love, appreciation, and understanding of Culpeper’s role in America’s founding.”
The Battle of Great Bridge, fought in what is now Chesapeake, Virginia, was one of the first major land battles of the Revolutionary War in Virginia. On December 9, 1775, colonial forces defeated British troops, forcing them to retreat from Virginia soil, a return that would not occur for another five years. The Culpeper Minute Men played a key role in the victory, demonstrating the resolve and strength of Virginia’s citizen soldiers.
Culpeper County Public Schools is grateful to the Daughters of the American Revolution for providing these resources. This donation brings history to life for our students and helps us celebrate the unique role our community played in shaping the nation’s early years.