Society Saturday - Captain Gates

At the Annual Banquet of the Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America, we had a chance to travel back in time to meet the Captain of the Maryland "Dove".  The "Dove" was the ship that brought the early settlers to Maryland in 1633-4.  It is being reconstructed at St. Mary's City in Maryland.

Aiding the reconstruction was the project of 2015-18 DFPA National President Carole Belcher.  

Captain Will Gates is an expert ship rigger of historic tall ships and is currently the skipper of the reconstructed " Dove".  He told us about the history of the ship, and details about its reconstruction.

It was interesting to learn a little about what life was like on board during the 3 month winter voyage for the 120 people on board, each with only a small patch of deck to call their own.

www.nationalsocietydfpa.com

Society Saturday - An evening with the Madisons

At the Associate Council of the Daughters of 1812, we were entertained by James and Dolley Madison.

They were portrayed by Kyle Jenks and Judith Kales who perform first person interpretations of several historic figures.

We learned specifically about the events surrounding the British burning of the White House in August 1814.  James had gone off to be with the US troops, and Dolley stayed behind to safeguard the documents and treasures of their home.  When she was forced to flee, they spent a harrowing several days trying to reconnect with each other.

"Jimmy" and Dolley then told us several anecdotes about how they met and what their family life was like.  

It was a very interesting evening with our fourth President and First Lady.

www.usdaughters1812.org