The Rappahannock Historical Society is committed to collecting, preserving, interpreting & disseminating the unique history and heritage of Rappahannock County, promoting knowledge of the past for a better understanding of the future.
Photo by Emily Oaks / FootHills Forum
Rappahannock Historical Society Secretary Helen Williams quizzes members about county history during the organization’s annual meeting in September at the Town Hall, giving out as prizes copies of John and Judy Tole’s book.
UPCOMING RHS SPRING & SUMMER EVENTS
JULY 4TH FIREWORKS & FESTIVAL
Meet-and-greet board and other members at our tent for information and snacks at Ben Venue on July 4.
JOHN JACKSON PIEDMONT BlUES FESTIVAL
The RHS is please to collaborate with the Jackson Festival committee to put together this year’s festival on September 28.
RHS ANNUAL FALL MEETING
Our annual membership meeting will be held in October (date to be determined). Watch for more information later in the summer.
QUILT RAFFLE & RAAC FALL ART TOUR
This year’s handmade quilt will be on display at the Jackson Blues Festival and our annual membership meeting. The winning ticket will be drawn during the RAAC Fall Art Tour at Bookworks in Flint Hill, the studio of RHS president, Michael Dennis, on Sunday, November 8.
RHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MICHAEL DENNIS, PRESIDENT
KEES DUTILH, VICE PRESIDENT
DEBBIE KEYSER, SECRETARY
MARIE DAVIS-ROMAN, TREASURER
JACOB CROCHET-DORE
NANCY FREEMAN
CATHERINE HUNDLEY
EVA GRIMSLEY, MANAGER OF HERITAGE OPERATIONS
VOLUNTEERS
LYNN SWIERCZEK, SPECIALIST ON PARK CEMETERIES
HELEN WILLIAMS, UNIVERSAL VOLUNTEER
RHS STEPS INTO SPRING WITH RENEWED ENERGY AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
The fall and winter months have brought a wonderful sense of renewal to the Rappahannock Historical Society, and we’re excited to share what’s been happening as we prepare for a vibrant year ahead.
At our annual meeting in September, members elected a permanent Board of Directors to continue the momentum started by last year’s interim board. Since then, we’ve taken a fresh look at our building, our collections, and our archives—and we’ve also been re-energizing the way we organize our work. In February, the board gathered for a planning retreat to revisit our mission, sharpen our vision, and strengthen the structure that supports our programs. It’s been an inspiring process, and we’re heading into spring with renewed purpose.
As we close out the first quarter of 2026, we’re turning our attention to two big priorities: connecting more deeply with the community and building the support we need to grow. One of the best ways to get involved is by joining one of our committees. Whether you’re drawn to Buildings & Grounds, Collections & Archives, Communications, Programming & Fundraising, or Information & Technology, there’s a place for you here. Committees are where ideas turn into action—and where volunteers have the most fun. If you’d like to lend your skills, explore a new interest, or simply meet some great people, reach out to Eva Grimsley, our Manager of Heritage Operations. She can connect you with the appropriate Committee Chairs to talk more about volunteering.
Eva Grimsley can be reached by calling the Society at {540} 675-1163,
or email at: eva1rapphistsoc@gmail.com