Freedom Forge Foundation

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Freedom Forge Foundation

The Freedom Forge Foundation is a nonprofit organization powered by history to promote civic engagement and foster a free and just world.

05/29/2026

Join the Freedom Forge Foundation for a Stafford VA250 Commemoration Event celebrating James Hunter and America's Independence!

Discover the story of Hunter's Iron Works and the Rappahannock Forge — once called the "greatest Iron Works on the Continent." Located in Falmouth, Virginia, this historic site produced the muskets and tools that helped fuel George Washington's victory in the American Revolution, yet has long been overlooked in history. On the eve of America's 250th Anniversary, that changes.

Over two days, experience military reenactments, living history, blacksmithing demonstrations, symposium speakers, military honors, and fife & drum performances across three historic Falmouth locations.

Tickets are $10/person for both days — kids are free.

05/25/2026

On this , we remember that freedom is achieved through profound sacrifice.

From the soldiers who crossed the Delaware to those who have served in every conflict since, the price of American liberty has always been paid with the blood of our citizens. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of this nation, we honor not just the ideals America was founded on — but the men and women who gave everything to defend them.

05/19/2026

Forging shared history, one connection at a time! 🔨✨

We are thrilled to bridge the past with the present by connecting the upcoming Annual Historic Germanna Reunion & Conference to our collaborative efforts with the Freedom Forge Foundation!

Virginia's early iron industry is a cornerstone of our shared heritage. We are excited to highlight this history through a special presentation by renowned local historian Jerrilynn Eby MacGregor, a Freedom Forge Foundation advisor.

Jerrilynn will share her deep expertise on Hunter’s Iron Works (also known as the Rappahannock Forge). Located in Stafford County, it was the largest combined iron- and gun-making facility in 18th-century North America and served as a vital supplier to the Continental Army.

From the early iron pioneers of the Germanna Colonies to the revolutionary impact of Hunter’s Iron Works, this presentation uncovers how our region quite literally forged American Independence.

📅 Join us at the conference to hear Jerrilynn’s presentation live!
🎟️ Secure your spot today and view the full schedule on the Historic Germanna Event Page.

Don't forget to learn more about the critical preservation work happening right now at our historic site by visiting the Freedom Forge Foundation Website!

https://germanna.org/conference-and-reunion/

05/18/2026

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the We Are Marines Collection is officially joining our upcoming Revolution on the Rappahannock event!

History is coming alive in a whole new way. Standing here next to one of their Revolutionary War re-enactors, it is incredible to think about the direct line of courage that connects our nation's first defenders to the United States Marines.

This powerful collection brings unforgettable stories, artifacts, and honor to our event.

You do not want to miss this. Mark your calendars, bring the family, and come experience history up close with the Freedom Forge Foundation.

See you on the Rappahannock!

05/05/2026

📅 BIG UPDATE: Revolution on the Rappahannock is moving to October 2026!

🍂To ensure our inaugural event is as safe and impactful as possible, we are shifting our dates from June to October.

As a new start-up, we want to get this right! After discussions regarding public safety and event congestion in June, Stafford County officials suggested moving to October—a time when we can truly have the spotlight to ourselves.

Join us this fall as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our nation and commemorate the incredible contributions of Hunter’s Iron Works to America’s independence. We’re building this to be an annual tradition you won't want to miss!

📍 Where: Falmouth, VA
🗓️ When: October 10-11, 2026

Stay tuned for programming updates.

We can't wait to see you there!

04/26/2026

What a productive week at Sea-Air-Space 2026!

The Freedom Forge Foundation was proud to be part of the world’s premier maritime exposition at National Harbor, MD, alongside the brightest minds in defense and innovation.

This year’s theme, "Defending Freedom, Forging Tomorrow," resonates deeply with our core mission.

While the Sea Services honor a 250-year legacy of maritime readiness, the Freedom Forge Foundation continues to steward the history of James Hunter’s 18th-century Iron Works—the very birthplace of America’s defense industry.

Just as Hunter forged the tools for victory during the Revolutionary War, today we are:

• Defending Freedom by preserving the historical foundations of our liberty and fostering civic engagement through education.

• Forging Tomorrow by empowering the next generation of leaders to shape the future by learning from the past.

Connecting with industry leaders and military decision-makers reminds us that the spirit of innovation and sacrifice that started centuries ago should continue to drive our national security today.

Thank you to the Navy League of the United States for hosting such an inspiring event!

07/04/2025

Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸

07/02/2025

Who was James Hunter? 🇺🇸

A Scottish immigrant turned revolutionary industrialist, James Hunter defied British law to build one of colonial America’s largest ironworks, arming the Continental Army and helping forge the path to America’s Independence.

Though largely forgotten, his legacy lives on through the Freedom Forge Foundation and our dedication to advancing the ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Check out our website for more information about this inspiring story!

06/30/2025

Born of revolution, built on resolve.

James Hunter's legacy gave rise to America's Defense Industry. Discover its crucial role in securing our Independence and the values we cherish today.
The Freedom Forge Foundation honors this often-overlooked Revolutionary hero by preserving the historic Hunter’s Iron Works, amplifying his story, and continuing his mission of liberty, justice, and civic responsibility for all.

Visit our website to learn more!

06/27/2025

Stories make, shape, and forge history. They connect us in impactful ways.

To safeguard the spirit of 1776 for future generations, the Freedom Forge Foundation brings you the forgotten story of James Hunter. He gave rise to America’s Defense Industry - and its founding mission to advance liberty and justice for all.
Check out our website to learn more, and join us in forging a better world. By learning from history and taking cues from the past, we can all play a part in shaping a better future.

Address

115 Henry Clay Road
Ashland, VA
23005

Website

http://www.freedomforgefoundation.org/

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