RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – The Library of Virginia will present a free virtual talk on Thursday, Nov. 6 at noon featuring senior map archivist Cassandra Farrell discussing the geographic impact of one of the most controversial documents of the American Revolution — Lord Dunmore’s Proclamation. Issued in November 1775 by Virginia’s last royal governor, Lord Dunmore, the proclamation declared martial law and offered freedom to enslaved people and indentured servants who agreed to fight for the king. Registration is required at https://lva-virginia.libcal.com/event/15127239.

Farrell will explore the spatial history of the historic document, including where it was published and discussed. Dunmore’s proclamation prompted many enslaved persons to escape — as many as 2,000 reached the governor — and raised widespread fear of a slave rebellion. His offer, and his subsequent recruitment and outfitting of a regiment of Black soldiers, alienated the remaining influential planters and political leaders who until then had stayed loyal to the Crown. More enslaved Virginians gained their freedom fighting for the king than gained freedom by remaining at home.

This event is part of the Library’s programming commemorating Virginia's role in the 250th anniversary of American independence.

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The Library of Virginia is the leading source of information on Virginia’s history, government and people. The Library’s collections, containing more than 134 million items, document and illustrate the lives of both famous Virginians and ordinary citizens. Our online resources draw nearly 2 million website visits per year, and our on-site records, exhibitions and events bring in thousands of visitors annually. The Library is located in downtown Richmond near Capitol Square at 800 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Learn more at www.lva.virginia.gov.