Forged in Time: Hunter's Iron Works and America's Fight for Freedom

Name: Forged in Time: Hunter's Iron Works and America's Fight for Freedom
Start: 2026-03-05T10:00:00-05:00
Location: Central Rappahannock Regional Library

Schedule

Thu, 05 Mar, 2026 at 10:00 am

UTC-05:00

Location

Central Rappahannock Regional Library | Fredericksburg, VA

Tucked along the Rappahannock River just upstream from Falmouth, Virginia lies a powerful piece of American history: Hunter’s Iron Works and Rappahannock Forge. Established in the 1750s by James Hunter, this site was far more than a simple ironworks—it was a vital supplier to the Continental Army during the American Revolution.
From guns and rifles to massive naval anchors, James Hunter’s businesses produced the tools that helped sustain the fight for independence. Its importance made it a target as well; British forces attempted to destroy the forge not once, but twice. Yet its legacy endured, shaping both the local landscape and the nation’s fight for freedom.
This compelling story will be brought to life by G. Scott Walker and Kathi Lynn Austin. Scott brings decades of experience in education and historic preservation, along with deep ties to regional history organizations. He shares his love of history through his company, Hallowed Grounds Tours. Kathi Lynn is not only a Hunter family descendant, but she is also the current Executive Director of Freedom Forge Foundation, which seeks to preserve, interpret and elevate the story of the original Hunter’s Iron Works and Rappahannock Forge site in Stafford County.
This free program is made possible by our sponsor, Lewis Insurance Associates. It is presented in partnership with the Central Rappahannock Regional Library and Washington Heritage Museums.