"Lines of Communication in Revolutionary America" presentation

Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum curator, Lynn Heidelbaugh, will present “Lines of Communication in Revolutionary America” at Historic Brattonsville on July 11 and 12 at noon each day during The Battle of Huck’s Defeat battle reenactment weekend.

Her keynote presentation brings postal history to life through the letters, newspapers and word-of-mouth messages that helped win America’s independence as we celebrate 250 years of American freedom. In the years leading up to the war, Patriots, Loyalists and the British authorities clashed over control of communication networks, post offices and postal routes. Recognizing the strategic importance of the mail, the Continental Congress established a postal system on July 26, 1775—almost a year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Join curator Heidelbaugh of the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum for her talk and explore replicas of early American postal materials that provide insight into the experiences and communications of those who lived through the Revolution. She will also be available before and after her talks for meet and greets and questions.

The annual Battle of Huck’s Defeat portrays the Patriot victory over British soldiers commanded by Capt. Christian Huck. This battle became known as an early turning point in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution and helped revive Patriot morale during one of the darkest periods of the war.

In addition to the Smithsonian lecture, there will be a variety of activities and demonstrations going on throughout the weekend for all ages, plus a different battle reenactment at 2 p.m. each day.

The Battle of Eutaw Springs will be portrayed on Saturday, July 11 and The Battle of Huck’s Defeat, on Sunday, July 12. Visitors can also experience an augmented reality tour, live cavalry and artillery, military camps, quill pen writing, guided tours and 18th century cooking and blacksmithing. Sunday will also have an 18th century church service.

Admission allows entrance to all activities, the Smithsonian lectures, and augmented reality experience. Tickets can be purchased in advance or as walk-ups. 

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Heidelbaugh is part of the Making History, Making Change Lecture Series. Organized by Smithsonian Affiliations as part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250, the series is a national collaboration between the Smithsonian and 25 Smithsonian Affiliate organizations, featuring expert-led talks that explore the people, moments and ideals that have shaped—and continue to shape—the American experience.