Road to Independence

Amid a crisis in the British empire, Virginia’s leaders had assembled as an independent political body that would not answer to the governor, Parliament, or the monarchy.

In 1774, the Indigenous people of the Ohio Valley fought for their independence. Now known as the Shawnee-Dunmore War, this eruption of conflict became one battle in a lengthy war for the future of the Ohio Valley.

As John Murray, Earl of Dunmore stepped out into the humid darkness in the first hours of June 8, 1775, he left behind his family’s bright, comfortable home. He did not know, but might have guessed, that he would never return to the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg. His departure marked the end of royal authority in Virginia.

To avoid interference from Governor Dunmore, the Second Virginia Convention met March 20, 1775 inland at Richmond — in what is now called St. John's Church — instead of the Capitol in Williamsburg. Delegate Patrick Henry presented resolutions to raise and establish a militia, and to put Virginia in a posture of defense.

Fireworks shows could be elaborate events. Some featured a central structure with painted illuminations, which might convey political meaning. The show might include pyrotechnics on a stage as well as fireworks launched into the air. Some were simple, others elaborate. Most fireworks did not have color additives and exploded in a golden orange.