SD8 - Report of the Virginia Independence Bicentennial Commission 1966 - 1982

  • Published: 1986
  • Author: General Assembly, Special Commission
  • Enabling Authority: Chapter 698 (Regular Session, 1966)

Executive Summary:
For sixteen years the Virginia Independence Bicentennial Commission worked to bring out Virginia's importance prior to and during America's War for Independence. It succeeded in dramatically conveying to the citizens of Virginia, the nation, and foreign countries the principles and achievements of Virginia during the revolutionary period.

This report documents the four-day celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Yorktown--where America's independence was won. By far, the Yorktown celebration of October 16-19, 1981, was the most significant commemoration in Virginia in this century. It could not have been accomplished without the dedication and devotion of the members of the Virginia Independence Bicentennial Commission.

The following pages briefly chronicle the origin and activities of the Commission leading up to the commemoration at Yorktown. This record is but a partial presentation. Additional information may be obtained from the Virginia state Library or the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.