The Crossing of the Dan, a nearly forgotten episode of the American Revolution that occurred at South Boston, Virginia, in 1781, received recognition in September 2013 by the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution as a major historic event. This action has catapulted what was previously a local commemoration to a national event.

The Dan River Chapter, Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution, Berryman Green Chapter, Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution, Halifax County Historical Society, and the Town of South Boston hosted the 238th Anniversary Commemoration of the Crossing of the Dan in historic downtown South Boston, Virginia. The commemorative events were held on February 16, 2019 at 10 AM.

Centered around The Prizery, where the Crossing of the Dan Exhibit is open to the public. Saturday’s program on February 16th featured a speaker, Dr. Carole W. Troxler, speaking on ” The Loyalists in the Back County ” and a wreath presentation ceremony, An encampment on the Dan River, and a re-enactment of The Crossing, were canceled due to weather not permitting. However, a Brunswick Stew lunch was available, as “dutch treat” by the local fire department.

The Emcee was Dr. Henry “Phil” Williams, Past President of the Virginia Society who was introduced by past president of the Dan River Chapter, Virginia Society. Colors were posted by NSSAR Color Guard Commander Mark Anthony and 30 members of the National SAR Color Guard.

At the evening before the Dan River Chapter, Virginia Society hosted a “Meet and Greet” where we were welcomed to South Boston, VA for the annual Crossing of the Dan Ceremony.

Michael B. Gunn, Ph.D., past Cincinnati SAR President