Historic St. John's Church, c.1741, is the location of Patrick Henry’s “Liberty or Death
St. John’s Church, a National Historic Site, powerfully engages visitors by placing them in the very spot where our forebears‚ including Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington‚ discussed the issues and enacted the deeds that led to the founding of America. Costumed interpreters conduct daily tours of the church, sharing the story of the Second Virginia Convention at which Patrick Henry recited his famous “Liberty or Death” speech. The graveyard, the first public cemetery in Richmond, is also available for exploration. Many people important to Richmond and Virginia are buried here including George Wythe, who not only signed the Declaration of Independence but also taught law to Thomas Jefferson, Chief Justice John Marshall, and Henry Clay. The Visitor Center features a timeline exhibit and many wonderful books and gifts for the souvenir shopper.
Keywords: Patrick Henry, American Revolution, Second Virginia Convention, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Henrico Parish, historic tours, reenactments, Richmond history, colonial history, founding fathers, Church Hill
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since 1938, St. John’s Church Foundation (SJCF) has preserved the historic property as a powerful setting where we engage a broad public audience with the personalities and founding principles of our nation.
What is your primary product or service?
We offer daily guided tours as well as reenactments of the Second Virginia Convention, both for the public and for private events.
What type of payments do you accept?
All Major Credit Cards
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
St. John's Church Foundation
What are your hours of operation?
Mon-Sat: 10-4 pm
Sunday: 1-4 pm
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
"Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!"