Black Patriot Monument installed in Warsaw; dedication planned for Feb. 1

A representative of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Northern Neck historical society informed the board on Jan. 9 that a Black Patriot Monument has been installed in Warsaw and that an official dedication is scheduled for Feb. 1 at 1 p.m.

Why it matters: The monument recognizes Black patriots who contributed to the American Revolution and will include names from multiple counties in the Northern Neck region; board members were invited to attend the dedication ceremony.

Charles Billfield, who identified himself as representing the Sons of the American Revolution (National Virginia Society, James Monroe chapter) and local historical societies, told the board the monument lists 74 Black patriots from the region and that three of the names are men from Richmond County. He thanked the board for permitting the monument to be placed in Warsaw and described plans for the Feb. 1 dedication: a color guard from the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution, a gun salute, flag presentations and guest speakers. He said the group will continue historical research and add verified names to the monument as additional patriots are identified.

The board took the comment under public comment and no formal action was required. County staff said they would coordinate media and community notification and discussed placing an advertisement in the Northern Neck News to publicize the dedication.

What’s next: The monument dedication will take place Feb. 1 at 1 p.m.; the historical group will continue research to add verified names to the monument and the county will assist with publicity as requested.