Local SAR Chapter participated with a display in the Waterford Colonial Fair

The Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter Virginia SAR had a tent and display at the three-day Waterford Colonial Fair October 3-5, 2025. Chapter members Warner Workman, Barry Schwoerer and Lloyd Harting (Sunday only) talked with the public about Virginia in the American Revolution, the "Stuff" carried and used by a typical Revolutionary War Soldier, and handed out brochures on John Champe and what a typical Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution does.

A highlight of the display was the opportunity to ring a reduced size Liberty Bell. Ringing the bell was very popular with children. All visitors were given opportunity to write whatever they wished using a quill pen and dip ink. Most users of the pen and ink remarked that the old fashioned method of writing was surprisingly effective. Children were given an opportunity to play with 18th century toys such as a rolling hoop, ball and cup, and whirligig. Using duck feathers and wine corks children were given an opportunity to make, and use, a feather dart to toss in a basket.

Replica, non-firing flintlock pistols and muskets gave visitors a feel for what it was like to carry and operate 18th century weapons. They could view how a flintlock works by handling a lock mounted on a board and were given instruction on how to make Revolutionary War era paper cartridges using inert materials.

On Saturday, Mr. Schwoerer gave a tent talk on John Champe wearing the uniform of a U.S. Light Dragoon (Cavalry). On Sunday, Mr. Schwoerer wore a regimental uniform to present arms when Taps was played at a ceremony honoring veterans at Waterford's Union Cemetery.

For more information on the Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter visit our website at: https://johnchampe-sar.org