Project Enlightenment is a historical interpretation society affiliated with

McLean High School McLean High School is a public school in McLean, Virginia known for its academic achievement, student publications, and award-winning band program. It is at 1633 Davidson Road and is part of Fairfax County Public Schools. In its 2021 report on th ...

. The project was begun in 1992 by Physics teacher Dean Howarth, who estimated in 2008 that 400-500 members had passed through the group in 16 years, although this figure is unsubstantiated. In 2011, it was expanded into a fully credited Living History class. The group focuses on the late eighteenth-century enlightenment era. A wide range of subject areas are represented by members, including the natural sciences, music, literature, military affairs, art, and politics. It is unusual among similar reenacting groups in its extensive interpretation of civilian affairs, especially scientific.

Notable Events

The group performs annually at George Washington's

Mount Vernon Mount Vernon is an American landmark and former plantation of Founding Father, commander of the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War, and the first president of the United States George Washington and his wife, Martha. The estate is ...

. The group works closely with several notable historical sites in

Alexandria, Virginia Alexandria is an independent city in the northern region of the Commonwealth of Virginia, United States. It lies on the western bank of the Potomac River approximately south of downtown Washington, D.C. In 2020, the population was 159,467. ...

, and frequently makes appearances at

Gadsby's Tavern Museum Gadsby's Tavern is a complex of historic buildings at 134 and 138 North Royal Street at the corner of Cameron Street in the Old Town district of Alexandria, Virginia. The complex includes a c.1785 tavern, the 1792 City Tavern and Hotel, and an 1 ...

and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Shop. Project Enlightenment has appeared at James Madison's Montpelier, along with notable James Madison reënactor John Douglass Hall.

References

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External links

Project Enlightenment promotional video
History organizations based in the United States