Dining with John Adams
John Adams has been dead for almost 192 years, but the second president of the United States will make an appearance in Washington soon, and even dine among regular folks.
Interpreter Peyton Dixon will portray Adams, described as an “imperfect, burdened, yet ever-striving man,” during the Bradford House Museum’s “Symposium on Life and Customs in Western Pennsylvania, An Evening with John Adams” April 6 on the campus of Washington & Jefferson College. Dixon will also embody Adams during a luncheon at the Union Grill, Washington, on April 7.
“He’s in character the entire time. You’re basically sitting down and having lunch with John Adams. It’s as close as we’ll ever get,” said Clay Kilgore, executive director of the Washington County Historical Society. “I think that those who sign up are going to experience something unique.”
Kilgore, who is working with the Bradford House through the historical society’s contract with the museum, has taken on the persona of several historical figures, particularly those involved in the Whiskey Rebellion. But he said the level of dedication interpreters like Dixon have is on another level.
“For anyone who’s ever been to an event like this, they feel like they’re seeing the historical figure. These guys know so much. They read the diaries and ledgers. They speak like they would have spoken,” Kilgore said. “It’s incredible. They really pull it off.”
About five years ago, the museum reduced their regular day-long symposium on 18th-century living from multiple speakers to an evening with a featured guest. Previous years have included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Albert Gallatin, and last year, Abigail Adams.
“Now, the event is for the general public, not just scholars. It’s for people who like history and want a fun evening,” Kilgore said. “After, there is a meet-and-greet where people can interact and ask questions.”
Historic figures are selected based on their connections to the region. John Adams, integral in helping to form a young United States, eventually pardoned Whiskey Rebellion leader David Bradford for his role in the rebellion.
Peyton Dixon, as John Adams, will dine with guests April 7 at the Union Grill, Washington.
The museum is sponsoring a poster contest, allowing students to create a piece on a person, place or event from the 1750s through the 1850s. The posters will displayed during the symposium.
“We want to bring history to them,” said Kilgore. “Kids don’t want to sit in a lecture. They want to learn history in a fun, interactive way.”
The luncheon will provide another interactive element for participants.
“Again, Peyton Dixon won’t be there. It will be John Adams,” Kilgore said. “It’s another opportunity to interact.”
An Evening with John Adams will be held in the Chapel at Old Main, W&J. Doors and displays open at 6:30 p.m., the program begins at 7, and a reception follows at 9. Tickets are $20 at the door. Tickets for $18 can be pre-purchased until noon on Friday at www.bradfordhouse.org or by mailing a check to Bradford House, PO Box 537, Washington, PA 15301. The Luncheon with John Adams will be held from noon to 2 p.m. April 7 at Union Grill. The $50 cost includes steak salad or penne with chicken and broccoli. Indicate entree when purchasing ticket at www.bradfordhouse.org.