Cradle for Democracy

2010 Winter Lecture Series

To register for one or more of these lectures, call The Wintergreen Nature Foundation at 434-325-8169, download a brochure or register online.

The Wintergreen Nature Foundation and the Historical Society of Nelson County invite you to our 2010 Winter Lecture Series. Previous programs brought the young nation through the “times that tried the souls of men” and the Revolutionary period. This year’s programs explore events in our fledgling country and our county during the tumultuous years of Jefferson’s presidency.

Little known facets of history will be uncovered, enacted by individuals who are, in some cases, direct descendants of the founding families of Nelson County. Join us as we recreate the lives and times of our forefathers and explore the characters and events that shaped our state and county.

Both performances will be held at the Nelson County High School Auditorium at 7pm.

Louisiana: Constitution vs Commerce

Saturday, January 30th - 7pmPostponed due to inclement weather

Reschedule Date: Saturday, February 13 - 7pm

Anti Federalist Jefferson’s presidency ended three years of Federalist rule under Washington and Adams. A Federalist majority in Congress during his first term however made for complications involving issues of Revolutionary War debt, a tenuous relationship with England, and French disruption of trade thru the Port of New Orleans. The birth of the two-party system, issues of Constitution versus commerce over the Louisiana Purchase, and International intrigue made for a volatile political atmosphere both locally and nationally.

Lewis and Clark: the Way West

Saturday February 13th - 7pmPostponed

Reschedule Date: Saturday, March 20 - 7pm

Jefferson had been unsuccessful in previous attempts to sponsor exploration of the western part of the continent. He believed, however, in a nation that stretched from “Sea to Shining Sea” and the Louisiana Purchase would represent the first opportunity to achieve his vision. This great president from neighboring Albemarle County, along with a young man named Meriwether Lewis, who grew up within sight of Monticello, led the way, supported by many of the families from today’s Nelson County.

For questions concerning inclement weather call 434-325-8169 after noon on the day of the performance.