Step into the past with Living History Nights presented by the Gallipolis Living History Nights Committee. Each night a scholar will assume the role of a notable historical figure and perform a monologue based on the life of that individual. Followed by an audience Q & A and then a meet & greet with the scholar. Performances are suitable for students and adults. Pre-performance entertainment at 6:15 PM and performance begins at 7:00 PM.
July 9th
Paul Revere Performance 7:00 PM
Paul Revere was a skilled silversmith, engraver, and active patriot in colonial Boston. Born in 1735, he became deeply involved in resistance against British rule, joining groups like the Sons of Liberty. He is most famous for his midnight ride on April 18, 1775, when he warned colonial militias that British troops were advancing toward Lexington and Concord—helping spark the opening battles of the American Revolutionary War. Although other riders took part, Revere became the most well-known. Beyond his ride, Revere contributed by producing engravings that spread revolutionary ideas and later served as an officer in the colonial militia. After the war, he continued his work as a businessman and craftsman, becoming a respected figure in early American industry. Portrayed by Ken Hammontree.
Live Music with
TBD
6:15 PM
July 10th
Deborah Sampson Performance 7:00 PM
Deborah Sampson was an American woman who disguised herself as a man to fight in the American Revolutionary War. Born in 1760, she enlisted under the name “Robert Shurtliff” and served in the Continental Army. During her service, she fought in battles, was wounded, and even treated her own injuries to avoid discovery. Her identity was eventually revealed when she became ill, but she was honorably discharged in 1783. Sampson later became one of the first American women to go on a lecture tour, sharing her experiences as a soldier. She is remembered for her bravery and determination to serve despite the restrictions placed on women at the time. Portrayed by Anna Smith.
Live Music with
TBD
6:15 PM
July 11th
Martha Washington Performance 7:00 PM
Martha Washington was the wife of George Washington and is known as the first First Lady of the United States. Born in 1731 in Virginia, she was a wealthy plantation owner and respected social figure before marrying George Washington in 1759. During the American Revolutionary War, she supported the Continental Army by spending winters at military camps, where she helped boost morale, cared for soldiers, and assisted in organizing supplies and fundraising efforts. After the war, she became the nation’s first First Lady when George Washington became president in 1789. She set early expectations for the role by hosting formal gatherings and maintaining a dignified public presence. Martha Washington is remembered for her leadership in shaping the role of First Lady and her support of the early United States. Portrayed by Leslie Stager.
Live Music with
TBD
6:15 PM
Meet the Organizers
The Gallipolis Living History Nights Committee is comprised of local community members who are passionate about bringing history alive for Gallia County residents and visitors. Members include; Debbie Saunders, Chairperson (Bossard Memorial Library)
Lynn Pauley (Bossard Memorial Library)
Kaitlynn Halley (Gallia County Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Amanda Crouse (Gallia County Convention & Visitors Bureau)
Lori Taylor (Gallia County Convention and Visitors Bureau)
Bob Hood (Gallia County Chamber of Commerce)
David Moore (Gallia Vinton Educational Service Center)
Bill Dummitt (Landbaron Properties LLC.)
Grace Cremeens (Student)
If you would like to make a donation to Living History Nights you can send it to the Gallia County Convention & Visitors Bureau with Living History Nights in the memo.
Thank You Sponsors
