The Richmond Theater Fire of December 26, 1811 shocked the city and the nation, resulting in 76 dead.

Chief Justice John Marshall’s residence is just blocks away from where the Richmond Theater sat in 1811, and he could have seen the tragedy unfold from his dining room window. As a premier citizen of Richmond, Marshall frequented plays at the Richmond Theater, but something kept him from attending that fateful night of December 26. The next morning, however, John Marshall led the City Council in raising funds to erect Monumental Church in 1814 in honor of the dead.

Author and historian Rachel Beanland explores the Richmond Theater Fire in her 2023 publication, The House Is On Fire, and she considers for the first time the diverse Richmond community forever impacted by the events of December 26, 1811.

Join Preservation Virginia’s 1790 John Marshall House in-person on November 16, 2023 at 5 p.m. for a book talk with Rachel Beanland. Stay to purchase a copy of the book, get it signed, and enjoy a reception and open exploration of the John Marshall House.

This event is free and open to the public, but as spaces are limited, please RSVP in advance by reserving your seats with mdowney@preservationvirginia.org.