This forum seeks public input on the long-range plans to utilize Clermont Farm in Berryville, Clarke County. This National Register property was bequeathed to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources in 2004. The Clermont Foundation manages the assets, archives, and endowment for Clermont Farm, as well as maintaining the active farming and preserving the buildings. They are currently working on a Historic Structures Report and the Long Range Plan for the Use and Interpretation of Clermont.
This is where your participation is needed. To organize the themes of possible interpretation of Clermont, Professor Warren Hofstra has organized scholars to research and present their findings on seven key historical themes. The presentations and public comments will be used to determine the ultimate use of Clermont. This event is free and open to the public.
1st Session: June 24, 12:45-2:45 at Grace Church Parish Hall
Kym Rice – Clermont and the Potential of Public History
Kenneth E. Koons – Agriculture and Rural Life
2nd Session: June 24, 3:15-5:00 at Parish Hall, followed by a reception
Melvin Patrick Ely – House of Bondage, Springboard into Freedom; Clermont and Clarke County’s Black Community
Karen Hughes White – African American Life at Clermont
3rd Session: June 25, 9:30-11:30, Old Courthouse, followed by lunch at Parish Hall
Deborah A. Lee – Women and Domestic-Professional Life at Clermont
Dennis J. Pogue and Maral S. Kalbian – Architecture and Material Culture at Clermont
4th Session: June 25, 12:30-2:30, Old Courthouse
Peter Wallenstien – Legal History and Life in the Law
Joseph W. A. Whitehorne – Patriots: Clermont Residents’ Military Experiences
Kathleen Kilpatrick – Reflections and Conclusion
For more information and to RSVP for the event, please contact Bob Stieg, CEO, The Clermont Foundation, bstieg@msn.com or 540-837-2790.