Envisioning Revolution: Virginians in Action, 1776–1786

Opens June 13, 2026

The Library of Virginia, in partnership with Old Dominion University, is commemorating Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence with a free exhibition, “Envisioning Revolution.”

The exhibition features works from students in ODU's Department of Art who created works in the fall 2025 semester that envision Virginians featured in legislative petitions submitted to the state between 1776 and 1786. Those portraits and petitions, along with related research, are the foundation of the exhibition, providing insight into the diverse voices and revolutionary spirit of the time.

This exhibition is supported in part by the Chrisman Family Foundation and donors to the Library of Virginia Foundation.

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Legislative Petitions at the Library of Virginia

During the Revolutionary era, Virginians submitted more than 2,000 petitions to the General Assembly. These petitions, part of the Library's larger Legislative Petitions Collection, demonstrate that Virginians of all backgrounds and walks of life believed the government existed to protect their rights and was accountable to the people. The right to petition is an ancient one, dating back indirectly to the Magna Carta of 1215. Anyone could petition the General Assembly for a variety of community and personal reasons.

Featured Petitions

Select one of the petitions featured in our exhibition to see it and a transcription in our online catalog.

John Cropper asked for compensation for the loss of an enslaved woman named Sue who attempted to escape with the British, 1780.

Mary Webley petitioned for assistance after the destruction of her home during the destruction of Norfolk, 1776.

Mann Page asked for a pardon for an enslaved man named Billy who had been sentenced to death for treason, 1781.

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