About

How did ordinary people experience life in the colonial and Revolutionary eras, from the humdrum day-to-day happenings to the extraordinary events still familiar to millions? In his two books, "Vignettes of Colonial Virginia" and "Vignettes of Revolutionary Virginia," historian Brent Tarter paints a vibrant, colorful portrait of the Old Dominion in the eras before and during the Revolution, presenting a collection of stories gathered from his career in archival research. Using the language of his historical subjects, Tarter brings the experience of the past to life.

With the 250th anniversary of the declaration of American independence upon us, both books situate the reader among the ordinary people who lived on the eve of those extraordinary times.

Tarter is a retired historian and founding editor of the Library of Virginia’s "Dictionary of Virginia Biography" project. He will be joined in conversation by Carolyn Eastman, president of the Society for Historians of the Early American Republic and professor of history at Virginia Commonwealth University.

A book signing will follow the program. This event is part of the Library’s programming commemorating Virginia's role in the 250th anniversary of American independence.

This is a free event, but registration is required. Limited free parking is available underneath the Library at 800 East Broad Street. For more information, contact education@lva.virginia.gov