“I am persuaded they will do great Execution:” The Maryland and Virginia Rifle Companies of 1775.
At 2pm on Sunday, February 19, for the launching of Lovettsville Historical Society’s 2023 Lecture Series, we will hear the story of one of the most important events at the beginning of the Revolutionary War: the creation of the frontier Rifle Companies and the Continental Army.
Our speaker Travis Shaw is the Director of Education for the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area, where he has worked since 2017.
On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the formation of several independent companies of riflemen to reinforce the New Englanders then besieging British-occupied Boston. Among the first to answer the call were four companies of men – two from western Maryland, and two from Virginia – who made a remarkable journey to reach Washington’s army that has gone down in legend as the Bee Line March.
Upon their arrival they made an immediate impact, turning a New England army into truly Continental Army, and further cementing the legend of the American marksman in history.
Prior to joining VPHA Travis Shaw spent time at Historic St. Mary’s City, The Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab, Mount Vernon, and Oatlands Historic House and Gardens. He holds a BA in history from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and an MA in history with a concentration in public history from American University.
Travis is former Vice President of the Loudoun Preservation Society and served on the Loudoun County Historic Cemeteries Commission. He is currently a member of the Loudoun County Heritage Commission. He is a guest contributor to the Emerging Revolutionary War series and has written a number of articles for the American Battlefield Trust.
The presentation will be held at 2:00 pm at the St. James United Church of Christ, at 10 East Broad Way, in Lovettsville. The program will be followed, as is customary, by questions and discussion.
Admission is free, but donations and are welcome to defray expenses of the program and to support the activities of the Lovettsville Historical Society.