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Reading of the Declaration of Independence

Area: Lower Shore

About

A Commemoration of the Reading of the Declaration of Independence on Historic Eastville Courthouse Green

August 15, 2026, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
16404 Courthouse Road, Eastville, VA

You know July 4th is remembered for the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, but copies of the historic document did not arrive to rural areas until weeks after. Join the Town of Eastville in a commemoration on the Historic Eastville Courthouse Green from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm for a variety of activities.

A reading of the Declaration of Independence will take place by the County Clerk of Court, the Honorable Traci L. Johnson, on the steps of the 1731 Northampton County Courthouse at noon.  

The 1899 County Courthouse will be open for viewing the county museum and exhibits of the Northampton Historic Preservation Society.

The 1750 Old Clerk’s Office, the 1814 Debtor’s Prison, and the newly restored 1907 Jail will be open for touring.

An Eastville Town Walking Tour will be available.

Music will be provided by Tidewater Pipes and Drums, Northampton High School Band, and the renowned bass-baritone and opera singer, Master Sgt. Alvy Powell, Jr.

A selection of food, local history information tables, and activities will be available as well.

The event is free and open to the public. All activities will take place on the Historic Eastville Courthouse Green, 16404 Courthouse Road.

For more information, contact Kevin Doughty, Eastville Town Manager, at 757-678-7523 or email:  kdoughty@townofeastville.com

Features:

4th of July, Demonstrations, Family Fun, History/Heritage, VA250, Music, Performances, Stories of the Shore

Historic Eastville Courthouse Green
16404 Courthouse Road
Eastville VA, 23347
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