The historic village of Burkittsville was founded on a crossroads that has linked it to the broader story of the United States for over 250 years. As our country marks its semiquincentennial anniversary in 2026, South Mountain Heritage Society is opening a special exhibition exploring the role Burkittsville and the surrounding communities of the lower Middletown Valley have played in the founding of our nation and the evolution of its founding principles through the era of the American Civil War. The exhibition highlights local individuals in both the 18th and 19th centuries whose lives uniquely reflect the American pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness amid the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality. In this program, Jody Brumage will give an overview of the exhibit and discuss some of the unique stories and artifacts of revolutionary times in the Burkittsville area.

Jody Brumage has been an active public historian in Frederick County for over fifteen years. He is passionate about researching regional history and engaging the public, local residents as well as visitors to the area, in the rich, diverse, and significant history of Frederick County. Jody is the Archivist and Museum Manager for Heritage Frederick (the Historical Society of Frederick County) and also serves as President, Historian and Curator of South Mountain Heritage Society in Burkittsville, Maryland. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Public History from Shepherd University and a Master's of Archives and Records Administration from San José State University.

Refreshments will be served.

Hope to see you there!