Stitching Virginia’s Story: A Lecture by Michael Gillman

Join us for a lecture by Michael Gillman, Manager of Historic Sites at the Town of Wytheville Department of Museums. The Wytheville lead mines are depicted in the Virginia Panel of America’s Tapestry, a project designed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States with 13 hand-embroidered panels, one for each of the original 13 colonies. The panels, designed in consultation with historical research teams, illustrate lesser known stories of the American Revolution. The panel will be on display during the event and project director Stefan Romero will be on site to facilitate the discussion and answer questions. Gillman will present to the in-person audience via Zoom.

The Virginia Panel features the mines of Wytheville, integral to the creation of lead musket balls for the Continental Army. During the American Revolution, the mines were worked by Welsh miners, enslaved laborers, and convicts. The tapestry spotlights an enslaved man named Aberdeen in the upper right hand corner, who volunteered to enlist. Despite being led away from the line of action to the lead mines of Wythe County, Aberdeen served seven years at the mine. After writing a petition to the House of Delegates explaining his service to the Patriot cause, Aberdeen received his freedom in 1783.

Michael Gillman is the Manager of Historic Sites at the Town of Wytheville Department of Museums. Nestled in the heart of Southwest Virginia, Wytheville boasts a remarkable collection of museums that bring the region’s rich history to life. Visitors can explore the historic Haller-Gibboney Rock House, or discover Wytheville’s contribution to Southern decorative arts at the Wythe County Decorative Arts Museum at Willowbrook Homestead Museum. Each site offers a unique window into the area’s cultural heritage, from pioneer life to industrial development.