Historic Long Branch Reopens
Preservation Group Invites Community To Experience The New Long Branch
Historic Long Branch, the steward of an American architectural treasure on 400 preserved acres in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, is planning to make history once again. On Friday, October 25, Historic Long Branch will re-open its doors to the public to experience newly installed exhibits and period rooms designed to complement the rich, 200-year history of the site. At the opening preview night, 6–9pm, guests will be treated to an evening in the home and talks by staff curators who have overseen the project and plans for the next phase. Recently acquired historic objects will also make their public debut. Admission to the opening night event is free and all interested are encouraged to attend.
“It’s the start of something entirely new, exciting and important,” said Long Branch executive director and historian Nicholas Redding. He continued, “Together with a board of passionate supporters, we have embarked on a new journey and are very eager to throw open our doors again to re-introduce our friends to this special place.”
The completely new exhibit galleries explore various themes from the home’s 200-year history and the development of the Shenandoah Valley. The Long Branch Story takes visitors on a journey through the history of the house in the context of regional and national history. The Harry Isaacs Legacy is a gallery devoted to telling the story of the last owner of the home and the individual responsible for establishing Long Branch as a publically accessible site. Finally, rounding out the exhibits, History Detectives is a behind-the-scenes investigation of how historians and preservationists uncover the hidden history of historic sites.
Re-opening events will continue through the weekend on Saturday, October 26, 11am–5pm, and Sunday, October 27, 11am–4pm, and will feature self-guided and guided tours of the over 200-year old home, interpretive programs, and walks around the historic landscape, 19th century crafts & games and live old time string band music featuring music from Clarke County’s past. The Potomack Company will also be providing antique appraisals with a suggested donation fee that will be used to assist Long Branch’s acquisition of original furnishings.
Admission both days is $5 per person. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic lunches and enjoy the beautiful grounds and gardens.
On the evening of Saturday October 26 6–8pm, the house will remain open for “Long Branch after Dark” with a candlelight tour of the house featuring unique stories from the site’s long history. Admission is $15 per person and is recommended for ages 13 and up.
The weekend marks the beginning of a new era at Long Branch with historically-focused programs and events designed to enrich, educate and entertain. Visitors interested in attending the weekend events or to learn more about Long Branch are encouraged to visit Long Branch’s new website at: visitlongbranch.or
