Town of Orange Prepares to Celebrate Sesquicentennial Anniversary
By: Orange County Communications Department Photography Credit: Phil Audibert
The Town of Orange can trace its roots as a crossroads location and a courthouse village back, at least, to the separation of Culpeper County from Orange County in 1749. From humble beginnings holding court in the home of a private citizen, the future town took shape, as locations of regional importance (such as a post office, clerk ’ s office, jail, taverns, shops, etc.) were built. Each lent additional significance to the area, laying literal foundations for a hub of
commerce and official business that would become Orange, Virginia. In 1834, the Virginia General Assembly acknowledged the prominence of the location and passed legislation making incorporation possible, but this did not happen until almost 40 years later in 1872.
Much has happened and changed in the 150 years since the Town of Orange officially became a town. To commemorate this anniversary, the Town is planning a grand celebration on Saturday, June 11, 2022. There are several activities planned for the event which will honor the past while looking forward to a bright future. In the weeks leading up the June event, temporary historical kiosks will be installed throughout Orange, highlighting moments and places of importance to the town ’ s history. Additionally, an oral history project is being organized by the Orange County Historical Society. “ Memories and Visions ” interviews will be held at the Orange Train Depot on the event date of June 11, as well as the following Sunday, June 19, in honor of Juneteenth. No appointment is needed on these dates, simply come share your story.
Main Street, Orange - 1915
In preparation for the Town of Orange ’ s Tricentennial Celebration in 2172, a time capsule will be sealed and placed in the base of the Charters of Freedom installation at the James Madison Museum. A selection committee will choose items to be encapsulated from ideas submitted by residents. An online form facilitates these idea submissions. For those that enjoy active history, the 150 th 5K Run will begin on Short Street at the historic Orange Train Depot, and finish at Taylor Park. A 1K option allows younger participants (ages 5 - 8) to get in on the fun. Those interested in making their run more “ constitutional, ” are invited to dress like James and Dolley Madison for the run, in hopes of earning the “ best costume ” award at the finish line. Run participants will receive a race bib, a t - shirt, and a finisher medal. Pre - registration is required, sign up by June 5, 2022. Finally, the centerpiece of the celebration is the 150 th Festival, which will include live music, food vendors, local craft beverages, and conclude with fireworks. “ It will be a day filled with something for all ages to enjoy. Our town is very proud of its history, its accomplishments and its citizens. Celebrate with us and experience that home town feeling of a great place to live and enjoy life, ” said Orange Mayor Martha Roby. For more information about the celebration, visit www.townoforangeva150.com, and follow the event ’ s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OVA150. Main Street, Orange - 2022
Page 16 | May, 2022
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