The Revolutionary War era comes to life at the Handsell Historic Site and Vienna Waterfront.

The Nanticoke Historic Preservation Alliance (NHPA) and the Vienna Heritage Society are sponsoring a living history event to commemorate the Revolutionary War’s “Battle of Vienna.” The August 29th event, which runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Handsell Historic Site and the Vienna Waterfront, will feature a Revolutionary-era military encampment, a replica 18th-Century ship, traditional music, exhibits, food, and fun for the entire family.

The “Battle of Vienna” refers to raids by the British on the strategically important town of Vienna, a key port on the Nanticoke River. British vessels repeatedly attacked Vienna between 1779-1782, looting supplies, burning ships, and targeting homes like Governor John Henry’s Weston and the Handsell house. These raids highlight the Nanticoke River’s importance as a waterway for both commerce and conflict during the American Revolution.

At Handsell, the Chesapeake Independent Blues, a historical reenactment group, will set up a military encampment and conduct demonstrations and drills. The Handsell site will also include woodworking, open-hearth cooking, blacksmithing, rug-hooking, and Native demonstrations, as well as music by Ampersand and Linda Harris and David Cole. Visitors can also tour the Handsell house and Chicone Village, and the Hooked on Seafood food truck and an ice cream truck will be selling tasty fare throughout the day. The Vienna portion of the event will feature the Ship’s Company replica vessel, music by the Ship’s Company Shantymen, tours of historic homes, visits to the Vienna Heritage Museum and the Nanticoke River Discovery Center, children’s games, and food trucks.

The $10 ticket (children under 12 are free) provides admission to both sites and can be purchased at Eventbrite in advance or at Handsell (4837 Indiantown Road, Vienna, MD) or the Vienna Heritage Society (303 Race Street, Vienna, MD) on the day of the event. Additionally, NHPA will host a “Meet the Military” dinner with the Chesapeake Independent Blues at Handsell’s new Three Cultures Center from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Tickets are $30 per person and will be available through Eventbrite. For more information, visit www.restorehandsell.org and www.viennamd.org.

To set up an interview or to speak with an NHPA representative, email info@restorehandsell.org.

Thanks so much for spreading the word about this important event!