Discover History & Mystery At This Richmond Church
Saint Johns Church is an iconic landmark that played a crucial role in our nation's history.
Past Lane Pursuits is a weekly newsletter of Past Lane Travels, a history/travel blog that provides inspiration for discovering historical sites, hidden gems and small towns.
Answer to Last Week’s Trivia Quiz: Congratulations to all of those who correctly answered Patrick Henry as the Patriot who said, “Give me liberty or give me death.”
Thanks for taking part in the history quiz and keep reading to take part in this week’s poll!
Greetings History & Travel Lovers!
🌧 It has been raining in Gettysburg for the past 11 days, but we MAY get some peeks of sun today. A little rain is nothing to what the folks in the path of Hurricane Helene are suffering, and our hearts go out to those affected. 🙏🏻
If you’d like to help with the rescue efforts, I recommend The United Cajon Navy and Samaritan’s Purse.
🍁 On the bright side, the leaves are just starting to change in the Mid-Atlantic region. October is a great time to get outside, walk, hike and explore historical sites!
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History and Travel News
A 200-year-old Letter Was Found in a Bottle!
For those who travel with points: IHG Hotels and Resorts are offering extra points for stays through the end of the year.
Looking for luggage that is environmentally friendly? Check out Solgaard. Special! Shop Solgaard and use Code BUNDLE40 to Save 40% when you Buy 2 or more products.
If you’re tired of the long security lines at airports, try traveling with Amtrak. They have some special holiday rates.
“There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.” - Patrick Henry
Historic Saint Johns Church, Richmond VA
Since last week’s trivia question was about Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty” speech, I thought I’d share a little about Saint Johns Church in Richmond, VA, where the speech was given.
The church continues to be a regular place of worship and is also open to the public for tours.
The History
Saint Johns was established in 1741, making it one of the oldest churches in the region.
In 1772, additions to the building helped accommodate the increasing congregation.
Because it was the largest public building in Richmond at the time, the church hosted the Second Virginia Convention in 1775 and is where Patrick Henry delivered his well known “Give me liberty or give me death” speech, cementing the church’s place in American revolutionary history.
Visitors can get tours of the inside of the church or just explore the cemetery, where a number of notable historic figures as well.
One of the historic figures is George Wythe, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Another is Elizabeth Arnold Poe, mother of the legendary Edgar Allan Poe.
The grounds themselves are picture-perfect colonial charm. Ancient trees cast dappled shadows over weathered tombstones, while winding paths invite quiet contemplation.
The church and its grounds offer a peaceful oasis in the heart of Richmond.
If you ever visit Richmond, I highly recommend a tour of Saint Johns Church.
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Old-Time Wisdom
This is a remedy for when you have two glasses that are stuck together. Simply put the bottom glass in a dish of warm water and pour cold water over the top. Bam! They will come apart.
This Week’s Trivia Question: Give it a try!
Answers in next week’s newsletter.
Don’t miss next week’s newsletter!