Free public lecture - May 7, 2026

Join us for this exciting free lecture in the Historic Sandusky visitor center. This event is made possible by the Potter Lecture Fund.
Before the railroad reshaped the Virginia landscape, the James River was the high-stakes highway of the Commonwealth, powered by a courageous elite: the Black boatmen. This presentation, a preview of Ms. Baskerville’s upcoming book, The Black Boatmen of the James River, will provide an overview of her research on the hidden lives of these men who navigated the batteaux through treacherous rapids to build Virginia’s commercial empire.
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Tours of house and museum are currently available by appointment. Please call or email us in advance to set up a time to visit.
Visitors may also take a self-guided tour of the grounds and outdoor markers by using our self-guided tour brochure available outside at the visitor center..
History
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Sandusky served as Union Headquarters during the Battle of Lynchburg, however it has seen more than 200 years of local and national history. Though the house was built in the Federal era our restoration and interpretation reflects Sandusky as it appeared 1850 -1870.
University of Lynchburg
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Historic Sandusky is owned and operated by the University of Lynchburg. Sandusky provides experiential learning opportunities for its students, faculty and staff. The site is also open to the public
















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