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 on ...
.
The group works closely with several notable historical sites in
Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria is an independent city (United States), independent city in the northern region of the Commonwealth (U.S. state), Commonwealth of Virginia, United States. It lies on the western bank of the Potomac River approximately south of Downto ...
, and frequently makes appearances at
Gadsby's Tavern Museum 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
{{reflist
External links
Project Enlightenment promotional video
History organizations based in the United States