Henricus Historical Park — Attraction in Chester

We had a bad experience with one of the interpreters. He became very aggressive as he made assumptions about what we were going to say. Not that he let us finish a sentence - he interrupted and assumed he already knew what we were going to say as soon as it was clear that his one sided over generalization was not being met with complete agreement. He would stop himself and pounce on any shake of the head or “yeah but also…” He allowed no interpretation other than his own even as we were the only group he was talking with. We were not interrupting a lecture he was giving to more than one group of people . His style was to launch into a version of the history, make broad generalizations then aggressively shut down any discussion. Which was weird because his style of interpretation was to ask “gotcha” type questions and gleefully tell you that you’re wrong. Such as “what’s Pocahontas’ real name? So he simultaneously demanded interaction from the visitors then responded with contempt when you didn’t answer the way he wanted. When I asked him to let me finish my sentence, he bellowed “I can’t talk to you or I’ll lose my job.” He then called over two other men. We stood there stunned with our kids not knowing how we got in so much trouble that they called in reinforcements. Then he kept going with his speech - still peppering his comments with questions, but not inviting any answer outside his version of history. It was humiliating and unnecessary.

I spoke with three other interpreters there without any issue. Discussing aspects of the times and exchanging tidbits of what we had read/ studied. I enjoyed speaking with them. They welcomed questions and were pleasant and courteous.

But be forewarned: that one guy and his buddies will treat you with aggressive contempt bordering on violence if you don’t agree with their version entirely, meekly and gratefully. The strange part was the way he baited the visitors into saying things. He is the employee and thus designated to be the one providing the information. But it wasn’t that simple. He was eager to use his position to assert he was in possession of the only true interpretation of colonial times and to belittle and bully the paying guests.

It’s a complicated time in history, the archeological record yields new finds and new interpretations are normally a source of lively discussion. This man seems to have an agenda consisting of imposing his viewpoint on visitors as if they were ignorant non believers instead of guests...

I just attended the Victorian Christmas Tea program at Henricus Historical Park, and it was surprisingly delightful! The menu was thoughtfully prepared (although I'd love to see more inclusive options available for diabetic folks, vegetarians (like maybe cheese only sandwiches?), and vegans - or perhaps add something on the ticket where attendees can indicate if they need accommodation). The menu and tea choices definitely felt right! The program Amanda, the interpreter, led was fascinating! It was full of interesting facts about Christmas traditions. I especially appreciated how she deftly acknowledged the different aspects of Christmas (such as traditions "borrowed" from Romans, pagan celebrations, etc.), secular and religious meanings, and origins from cultures across America and Europe. It was balanced, interesting, and her energy was upbeat, lively, and cheerful. The only two recommendations I have are having a tea variety that is a little spicier, such as Indian influenced chai or something with cinnamon (there were still plenty of great options!), and if anything can be done for accessibility across the site (hard at a historical site, I know). These things did not detract at all. I would go again. I could see this becoming a tradition. If you get a chance to do, I...

Henricus Historical Park is a truly wonderful place where you can immersively experience and learn the history of the American Revolution and the Civil War. It's a great place to bring family and friends!

I visited Henricus Park for the annual event of the Reenactment of the American Revolution battles. The event was superbly organized. The actors were so passionate about the history --- they were able to tell anything and everything in much detail about the 18th century in America.

In addition to the actors, you will also see 18th and 19th century-looking buildings. There is also live stock such as hens, pigs and goats.

There were clean bathroom facilities. Though there is no paved path, the place is generally accessible for the people with disabilities.

I wish they had food trucks for lunch for such big events like the reenactment of the American Revolution battles. I would have spent the entire day there, but had to leave because my hunger levels were quite high!

I ENTHUSIASTICALLY RECOMMEND this place to anyone who lives in or visits Virginia. Henricus Historical Park should be on everyone's must-see...