Name: Forgotten World War: Exploring the Secret History of the American Revolution, from Spain to India and Back Again
Start: 2026-10-29
End: 2026-10-29

We’re a community of runners, hikers, bikers and ballplayers. We’re an outdoor playground, designed by Mother Nature, with class III and IV rapids running right through our downtown. A 52-mile bike trail runs along the James. The Richmond Marathon and Ukrop’s 10k are huge celebrations, and the whole region comes out to cheer on our local teams. In fact, we’re so sports-minded that the Washington Redskins have their training camp right in the center of the city. Add to that awesome hotels, beautiful venues, attractions, art, craft beer, more than 900 restaurants and a convenient location, and you’ve got a top choice for your next sports event. Welcome to RVA!

From indoor to outdoor facilities, the Richmond region has the fields, pitches, diamonds, venues and the dedicated staff to ensure your event is a huge success. 



Sports Richmond, VA

The Revolutionary War wasn’t just fought in the thirteen colonies—it was a world war, spanning four continents. To discover more, Derek Baxter embarks on an adventure-filled quest across the globe. He finds the human stories behind this long-ago conflict, expanding the universe of those who contributed to the cause, including the French, Spanish, Dutch, Oneida Indians, and Mysore Kingdom of India. And he delivers a powerful message: The United States only exists because peoples of different races, languages, and religions learned how to fight together, writing an unexpected story of independence that continues to resonate and inspire today. Baxter’s talk expands on the themes in VMHC’s exhibit *Revolutionary Allies: Foreign Friends of American Independence*.

Derek Baxter is the author of *In Pursuit of Jefferson: Traveling through Europe with the Most Perplexing Founding Father*, which chronicles how he followed Thomas Jefferson’s travels across six countries. His latest book is *The Forgotten World War: Exploring the Secret History of the American Revolution, from Spain to India and Back Again*.

The content and opinions expressed in these presentations are solely those of the speaker and not necessarily of the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

Program Notes:

- Tickets are required for in-person attendance. Lecture ticket includes admission to VMHC galleries.
- Admission to this lecture is free for members.

Forgotten World War: Exploring the Secret History of the American Revolution, from Spain to India and Back Again

Welcome to Hampton Inn Chester South, a charming hotel nestled in the heart of Chester, Virginia, offering comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travelers. Located at 12610 Chestnut Hill Rd, our hotel provides easy access to major highways, ensuring a seamless journey for guests arriving from nearby Richmond International Airport or exploring the vibrant area.

Our accommodations are designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers, with spacious rooms featuring modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and cozy bedding for a restful night's sleep. Start your day with our complimentary hot breakfast, offering a variety of options to suit all tastes, including classics like eggs and waffles as well as fresh fruits and cereals.

Families will appreciate the hotel's welcoming atmosphere and convenient location near local attractions like the historic Point of Rocks Park and Henricus Historical Park, perfect for day trips. For business travelers, our 24-hour business center and meeting facilities provide the ideal setting for productive engagements.

Stay active during your visit with access to our on-site fitness center or enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. As a pet-friendly establishment, Hampton Inn Chester South invites guests to bring their furry companions along for the journey.

Our friendly staff is committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest feels right at home. Choose Hampton Inn Chester South for your next visit to Chester, VA, and experience a blend of Southern hospitality and modern comfort. 

Hampton Inn Chester South

Discover comfort and convenience at Red Roof Inn Chester, ideally located at 2405 W Hundred Rd, Chester, Virginia. Perfectly suited for leisure and business travelers alike, this hotel offers a welcoming retreat just minutes from historical landmarks and vibrant local attractions. Embrace the ease of travel with the hotel’s strategic proximity to major highways and transport hubs.

Guests will enjoy clean, well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation. Each room features modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, ensuring you stay connected and entertained. For added comfort, select rooms offer amenities such as a microwave and a refrigerator.

Start your day with complimentary coffee or tea and take advantage of the hotel’s friendly and accommodating service. Travelers will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing you to bring your furry companion along for the journey. The hotel is also conveniently located near family-friendly attractions and dining options, providing a variety of activities to suit all ages.

With easy access to Richmond International Airport and downtown Chester, Red Roof Inn Chester serves as a gateway to exploring the region’s rich history and cultural offerings. Whether you're visiting the area for business or leisure, the hotel ensures a pleasant and hassle-free stay. Embrace the charm of Chester, Virginia, with a stay at Red Roof Inn Chester, where comfort meets accessibility. 

Red Roof Inn Chester

Suburban Studios in Chester, Virginia, is a welcoming haven for travelers seeking comfort and convenience just outside the bustling city of Richmond. Nestled at 2403 W Hundred Rd, this hotel provides an ideal retreat for business travelers, families, and tourists alike, thanks to its strategic location and array of amenities.

Guests can look forward to well-appointed accommodations designed to cater to both short and extended stays. Each room is equipped with convenient features aimed at enhancing comfort, such as kitchenettes for guests who enjoy the flexibility of preparing their meals. This makes it particularly appealing for extended stays and family visits.

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Suburban Studios

Nestled conveniently in Chester, Virginia, Comfort Inn offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience. Located at 2100 W Hundred Rd, the hotel is perfect for family vacations, business trips, and quick stopovers. Each guest room is designed with relaxation in mind, featuring cozy bedding, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs to ensure a comfortable stay. Start your day with a complimentary continental breakfast, offering a variety of morning favorites to fuel your adventures or work schedule.

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel's proximity to local business hubs and its selection of business services to facilitate a productive stay. For those looking to unwind, there's a seasonal outdoor pool perfect for a refreshing dip, while a well-equipped fitness center caters to those maintaining their exercise regime.

Comfort Inn Chester is ideally situated for exploring the region's historical attractions, with easy access to nearby landmarks, shopping centers, and dining options. Guest services are thoughtfully crafted to deliver a seamless experience, from 24-hour reception to ample on-site parking. 

While the hotel prioritizes comfort and convenience, it’s always best to contact the hotel directly for specific inquiries about family, pet, or accessibility accommodations to ensure a perfect fit for your travel needs. Whether visiting for leisure or business, Comfort Inn is committed to providing a memorable and satisfying stay in Chester, Virginia. 

Comfort Inn

Discover a delightful stay at the Quality Inn Chester - South Richmond, nestled conveniently in Chester, Virginia. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, this welcoming hotel harmoniously combines comfort and convenience. Each guest room offers restful beds, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep, and features amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a coffee maker to start your day right. 

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel's proximity to key industrial and corporate hubs, as well as access to a business center equipped with essentials for your professional needs. Families visiting the area will find our accommodations spacious and welcoming. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast featuring a variety of options to suit different palates.

The hotel is just a short drive from popular Virginia attractions, including the rich historical sites of Richmond and the picturesque Pocahontas State Park, making it a perfect base for exploring the area’s cultural and natural beauty. After a day of sightseeing or business meetings, guests can relax in the hotel’s outdoor seasonal pool or maintain their workout routine in the on-site fitness center. 

Whether you're in town for a quick business trip, a family getaway, or a couple's retreat, the Quality Inn Chester - South Richmond offers a comforting and convenient home away from home. Experience the inviting charm and superb location at this standout hotel choice. 

Quality Inn Chester - South Richmond

Experience comfort and convenience at Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Chester, located strategically in Chester, Virginia. This inviting hotel is perfect for business travelers and leisure guests seeking a tranquil and accessible retreat. Our spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites provide modern amenities for a restful stay, complete with plush bedding and ergonomic workspaces that cater to productivity and relaxation alike.

Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel’s indoor pool or maintain their workout routine in the state-of-the-art fitness center. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Bistro, offering a selection of American favorites in a casual setting. The convenient 24-hour Market provides snacks and essentials for those on the go.

Business travelers will appreciate our hotel’s proximity to key corporate offices and event spaces, alongside customizable meeting rooms equipped with the latest audiovisual technology. Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected throughout your stay, while our dedicated staff is ready to assist with any need.

Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Chester is ideally situated near major highways, offering easy access to the historical and cultural attractions of Richmond. Whether you're exploring the city’s rich heritage or attending local events, our hotel serves as the perfect base for your adventures. With its blend of comfort, efficiency, and southern hospitality, Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Chester promises a welcoming and value-packed experience for every guest. 

Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Chester

Welcome to the Holiday Inn Express Chester by IHG, a conveniently located hotel in Chester, Virginia. Perfectly suited for business travelers, families, and tourists alike, our hotel provides easy access to many local delights, including historical landmarks and the vibrant heart of Chester. Our hotel is nestled just minutes away from major transport hubs, making it the ideal choice for those on the go.

Our accommodations offer a comfortable and inviting environment with a choice of well-appointed rooms that ensure a restful experience. Each room comes equipped with modern amenities including free high-speed Wi-Fi, a spacious work desk, and a flat-screen TV for your entertainment needs. Start your day with our complimentary Express Start™ Breakfast, featuring a delicious selection of continental offerings to fuel your adventures.

The Holiday Inn Express Chester is designed with convenience in mind, offering guest-friendly features such as a 24-hour business center and a state-of-the-art fitness facility for your on-the-go lifestyle. Our warm and welcoming staff are here around the clock to assist you with any needs you might have during your stay.

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the Holiday Inn Express Chester provides a comfortable and efficient base from which to explore the charming attractions of Chester. We look forward to making your stay enjoyable and stress-free. Discover the blend of comfort, convenience, and value that Holiday Inn Express Chester by IHG offers today. 

Holiday Inn Express Chester by IHG

Experience comfort and convenience at Homewood Suites by Hilton Richmond-Chester, located in the charming town of Chester, Virginia. This all-suite hotel caters to both business travelers and families, offering spacious accommodations designed with your comfort in mind. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen and separate living and sleeping areas, providing the ideal home away from home atmosphere. 

Begin your day with a complimentary hot breakfast, offering a variety of delicious options to suit all tastes. For those who need to stay active, the hotel features a well-equipped fitness center. Business travelers will appreciate the complimentary Wi-Fi, business center, and meeting rooms available for their professional needs.

Families visiting the area will enjoy the hotel’s proximity to several local attractions, including Henricus Historical Park and Dutch Gap Conservation Area. If you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping or dining, numerous options are just a short drive away.

Conveniently located near major highways, Homewood Suites by Hilton Richmond-Chester offers easy access to downtown Richmond and the surrounding areas, making it a strategic choice for guests looking to explore the region.

Experience a welcoming and accommodating stay where modern amenities meet exceptional service at this family-friendly hotel. Whether you’re visiting for work or leisure, Homewood Suites by Hilton Richmond-Chester is committed to providing an enjoyable and satisfying stay. 

Homewood Suites by Hilton Richmond-Chester

Discover comfort and convenience at Hyatt Select Richmond / Chester, ideally located in the serene town of Chester, Virginia. Catering to both business travelers and vacationers, this inviting hotel provides easy access to major highways, enabling seamless visits to Richmond's bustling city center or leisurely exploration of Virginia's scenic landscapes.

At Hyatt Select Richmond / Chester, guests can relax in thoughtfully designed rooms featuring modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and workstations, making it a preferred choice for business travelers. In the mornings, guests can start their day with a hearty continental breakfast, a satisfying highlight for all visitors.

Convenience is ensured with a 24-hour fitness center, allowing travelers to maintain their workout routines. The hotel is also equipped with flexible meeting spaces, perfect for hosting business meetings or intimate gatherings. Families will appreciate the hotel's inviting atmosphere and kid-friendly accommodations, making it a welcoming space for guests of all ages.

Nestled near the Richmond area, the hotel offers proximity to popular attractions, including the Pocahontas State Park and Richmond National Battlefield Park, ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, the Hyatt Select Richmond / Chester provides a tranquil and accommodating environment for a stress-free stay. 

Hyatt Select Richmond / Chester

Discover a welcoming retreat at the Residence Inn by Marriott Richmond Chester, ideally situated in Chester, Virginia. This charming hotel offers an excellent blend of comfort and convenience, perfect for extended stays or short visits. Guests can enjoy spacious suites equipped with separate living, sleeping, and dining areas, providing a home-like environment ideal for families, groups, or business travelers. The fully equipped kitchens in every suite make it easy to prepare meals, adding to the comfort of your stay.

Start each day with a complimentary hearty American breakfast, providing a variety of delicious choices to meet different tastes. Stay active with the hotel’s modern fitness center, or relax and unwind in the refreshing indoor pool. Business guests will appreciate the on-site meeting spaces and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless working experience. 

Located in a convenient area, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions such as the Henricus Historical Park and the Dutch Gap Conservation Area, offering fantastic opportunities for outdoor exploration and historical discovery. With its excellent location just off I-295, guests can easily reach Richmond’s vibrant downtown area or Richmond International Airport.

The dedicated staff at Residence Inn by Marriott Richmond Chester are committed to making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Whether visiting for work or leisure, this hotel promises a restful and memorable experience. 

Forgotten World War: Exploring the Secret History of the American Revolution, from Spain to India and Back Again

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