I Jproming Events Previews

I Jproming Events Previews

Historical Society Program

Commemorating 200th

Birthday of Robert E. Lee

January 28

Sunday afternoon, January 28th at 4 p.m. at the Ibwn Hall in Washington, the Rappahannock Historical Society will host a presentation, “Not Unmindful of the Future”, by Dr. John R. Tale commemorating the 200th birthday of Robert E. Lee. The presentation will touch on highlights of Lee’s life with emphasis on the example his memory offers to us and to future generations. '

One of the most remarkable, and tragic, figures in all of history, Robert E. Lee seems destined to provoke impassioned controversy for eternity. But for a fateful choice in April of 1861, this man, who was the spiritual disciple of “the great (George) Washington”, might be universally revered. His decision to reject leadership of the Union Army and to instead join the Southern cause was filled with nuance and intimately related to the all that he understood concerning the intent of the “founding fathers”. The impatient present, however, does hot have much tolerance for historical detail or nuance or flawed heroes.

The choice he made, and all that flowed from that choice, profoundly affected the course of the Civil War, prolonging the struggle until lasting resolution of the great questions of the conflict became more apparent. In the process, he gave up most of his worldly goods and lost the fight of his life in a land that claims to value winning above all. But in defeat tins most supreme American loser demonstrated, with inestimable impact, the highest nobility of the human spirit, the result of a personal code (and not coincidentally a family motto) that put the common good and concern for the fiiture above self-interest. That impact, though largely forgotten and/or misunderstood remains with us to the present as perhaps his most important legacy.

In tiie nearly 140 years since his death, Lee’s memory has been used prodigiously to both glorify and vilify the “Lost Cause” of the Confederacy. But he was both more and less than the long ago spin doctors would lead us to believe. As a result, his essential humanity is often lost and he becomes merely an iconic abstraction, representing % only good or evil, depending on one’s perspective. Although he implored his fellow southerners to accept the outcome of the Civil War and “teach • your sons to be Americans”, the heinous acts of others during Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights eras have, sadly, almost hopelessly confused his legacy. In the age of political correctness the image of the man who did more than almost anyone to advocate post-war reconciliation with the North has been reduced in the popular mind to a sound-bite: “loser - symbol of racism -slap in the face to every minority” or worse. The Washington Post recently

asked “Is Lee Relevant?” implying in its remarks anifj almost condescending moral superiority for 21st Century society. How ironic this question and its notion of moral- ; ity seem in a time when self-promotion, enrichment at the expense of others, and dishonor in actions large and small are all too familiar hallmarks of all aspects of society from not only ‘reality’ TV shows to leadership in virtually every V arena. In truth, the relevancy of Lee is even greater now than it was in his own lifetime..

Duty, honor, integrity, steadfast devotion, complete . i acceptance of responsibility for one’s actions, forbearance in the exercise of power, and consideration of how one’s actions will affect others in both the present and the future; these are ideals that are much advocated, but seldom practiced with any consistency. For those who would look beyond the cynicism of our age, the life of Robert E. Lee offers a timeless reminder of how such qualities of character provide essential touchstones for the future.

John Tble, a retired electrical engineer, is a long-time Rappahannock County resident and student of Lee’s life.

Refreshments will be served following the presentation including cake and cookies prepared from recipes that were favorites of the Lee family.

Hunt Country Celebrations

holds Bridal Show

Features One-Stop-Shopping

for Bridal Parties

February 4

Hunt Countiy Celebrations is holding its annual Bridal Show at the Fauquier Springs Country Club on February 4. A consortium of over 50 wedding and event professionals, Hunt Country Celebrations offers prospective brides with one-stop-shopping and the combined experience of seasoned professionals. . Hunt Country Celebrations President, Don Harper said, “This year’s show has it all. From WINC-FM providing radio commentary and entertainment to champagne punch, prospective brides can discuss concerns with and question over 50 professionals. Advice and products for a dream wedding freely flow like the punch with vendors ranging from wedding locations to horse and buggy carriages.”

The show starts at 12 p.m. and the much-anticipated event, the bridal fashion show begins at 1:30 pm. Always a favorite, eveiyone will get the latest trends in wedding dresses, styles to best fit body types and what to avoid in dresses. Over 20 designers will take to the runway and showcase their most elaborate dresses, head pieces, wraps, and shoes. Wedding participants can check out flower girl, bridesmaid, mother-of-the bride and special occasion dresses as well.

Following the fashion show, the audience is treated to a dance demonstration featuring classic dance numbers as well as contemporary music for that most special of all dances - yours!

An important event for that important day, everyone is encouraged to join the festivities and partake of the food and champagne punch while gathering information.

Tickets are $5.00 in advance from Hunt Country f Celebrations or $10.00 at the door. They can also be purchased in advance by calling Elaine Burke at 540-2535000. Visit www.huntcountiycelebrations to check out their membership and for more information.