The Museum is excited for the return of our lecture series! Throughout the year historians will present engaging lectures at the museum pertaining to a variety of local history topics.

We are excited to announce a partnership with Culpeper Media Network to have the lectures recorded and made available.

Beyond the Minutemen: Culpeper’s 1776 Continentals
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 @ 6:30 PM

The story of Culpeper’s Revolutionary heroes didn’t end when the Minutemen battalions disbanded in the spring of 1776—it was just beginning. Join Museum Board member and local historian Jim Bish as he follows Culpeper’s Revolutionary leaders through the pivotal year of 1776, from the Declaration of Independence and major battles in New York to the crossing of the Delaware and the Battle of Trenton, as they lived through the “times that try men’s souls.”

This program will be held at the museum. Space is limited, so save your seat today! Admission is $5 per person, but Museum members get in FREE.

The Role of the U.S Gliders in WWII
As with every conflict, World War II served as a testing ground for new weapons and equipment. For the first time, gliders were to be used as a means of reinforcement to the paratroopers during assault phases. Of all the belligerents,  the Americans were the most inclined to use the glider, which was the only way of transporting a Jeep or a piece of artillery by air at the time, behind enemy lines. They were used during all the major operations in Europe. Join us as historian Philippe Esvelin discusses the significance of gliders in WWII.

Culpeper’s Sons at Cedar Mountain
The anniversary of the Battle of Cedar Mountain is just around the corner. One of four battles fought in the county, it played an important role in the lives of Culpeper’s residents. Local historian and Cedar Mountain Battlefield Foundation Board member William Treuting will discuss the exploits of Culpeper natives who fought in their home county during the Battle of Cedar Mountain on August 9th, 1862. Specifically, we will look at the exploits of the 13th VA Infantry, General Ambrose Powell Hill, and other local men serving during the battle.

The American Revolution: What You Did Not Learn in School
Most Americans are familiar with key events from the American Revolution, such as the Boston Tea Party, the Declaration of Independence, and Benedict Arnold’s betrayal. However, there are many fascinating details, personalities, and misconceptions about them that can alter our perception of these events. Join us this month as local historian Blane Ampthor examines these aspects and helps enhance our view of events that were key to our country’s founding.

VE Day: How Victory in Europe Changed the World
Local author and historian Matt DiPalma returns this month with a fascinating look at how the end of the world’s greatest conflict changed the balance of global power and affected the lives of Culpeper residents. Along with displaying his collection of original VE Day and World War II artifacts, Matt will discuss events leading to Victory in Europe and the aftermath that led to the Cold War.

Revolutionary Time: Watches, Fobs, and Chains in the Age of Independence
Local historian Dennis Loba is back this month with another interesting talk on the material culture of watches, fobs, and chains of the 18th century. This presentation will provide a glimpse of all these items- their history, uses, and their necessary importance in everyday life.

Patriots of Color in the American Revolution

How Culpeper (and the Country) Survived World War II: Rationing and the Home Front 1941-45

Lafayette: Idealist General

Fallen But Not Forgotten: The History of Memorial Day

The Black Community’s Dedication to Education

Baptists on Davis Street