Summer 2026 Newsletter
Almost!
We are waiting for final clean-up and preparation work on the fire pumper and the Chelsea Model T in order to move them into the new exhibit space. That could happen within the next week or so. Stay tuned.
Lafayette Sign
The Historical Society of West Point worked with Lafayette Trails. Inc. and their President, Julien Icher to recently install a historical marker near 14th and Kirby. This was the 12th Lafayette sign to be installed on the east coast to honor General Lafayette and his part in the Revolutionary War. This sign is also a part of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the US. HSWP also added one of our regular historical markers near the new sign to add more to the story.
250th Anniversary
As part of the 250th Anniversary of American Independence in partnership with VA250.org, we invite you tp come visit our display and learn more about West Point, Carter Braxton and the framing of America.
Local Hero John Paul Harper
Another new exhibit honors our own local hero, John Paul Harper. This is an exhibit that was designed and built by his son John Harper. It is an interactive exhibit that tells the story of the “death march” and Mr. Harper’s time as a prisioner of war. This is a “must see” addition to our museum.
Odds and Ends
- In Mid-August we will place our next order of bricks for the garden walkway. Consider donating a brick in honor of or in memory of your loved one, organization or business. A link is provided below to place your order. We will soon be expanding our memorial walkway to include the area in front of the new exhibit space. So this is a good time to add your brick.
- We have recently received our order of HSWP coffee mugs. We have these on sale at the museum for $10. They are great looking mugs and your purchase helps support our mission.
- We continue to add historical markers around our town. We have so much history to share. We now have 24 local signs and will soon add you tube videos for each sign to tell more of the story. Stop by the museum for a map of sign locations.
- HSWP did not add any new members during the last quarter. If you are not a member, please consider joining. It is still only $25 for an individual, $35 for a family and $100 for a business. Please click the link below and join and help support what we do.
- In addition to opening our new exhibit space, we have a number of other projects in the planning stages. We appreciate and welcome your continued support through your new or renewed membership, donations, and/or volunteerism.
History Tidbit
Packing House
During the early part of the 20th century, West Point and Port Richmond were very active in adding new business ventures. The new mill had been open a few years and was growing. There were also a number of fruit and vegetable packing houses as well as the oyster houses. Here is a 1928 picture of the fruit packing house. Most of the packing houses (including this one) were located in Port Richmond near the Pamunkey River.
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