Historic Fredericksburg: The Story of an Old Town

by John T. Goolrick

Federal Hill
Built by Judge Brooke, Brother of Surgeon Brooke, of the Bon Homme Richard

At nine thirty A. M., exercises were held on Lewis Street to mark the boundaries of the Lease Lands, which was done under the auspices of the A. P. V. A., one of whose members, Mrs. V. M. Fleming, had in searching old records, come across the forgotten document of the Lease Lands and worked hard for the celebration. A granite marker was unveiled with the following ceremonies:

Opening prayer—Rev. R. C Gilmore.

Address—Dr. J. P. Smith, introduced by Dr. Barney.

Unveiling—by Jacquelin Smith, a descendant of Lawrence Smith, first Commander of the town.

Acceptance—Mayor J. Garnett King.

Benediction—Rev. J. J. Lanier.

These exercises were very impressive and largely attended.

Receptions, addresses by distinguished guests, parades of soldiers and marines, veterans of three wars and descendants of Indians were all on the program which followed and fascinated the crowds at various points. In front of the Princess Anne Hotel was presented a lively scene, with one of the bands of marines from Quantico playing on the balcony while throngs of gaily dressed women, citizens, officials and marine officers made up a remarkably brilliant ensemble.