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Approximately 30 individuals will become U.S. citizens during a Naturalization Ceremony at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill on May 12.

The event scheduled for 11 a.m. is the fifteenth Naturalization Ceremony to be held at Red Hill.

Applicants earn the right to become U.S. citizens by meeting several requirements, one of which is to pass tests demonstrating the ability to read, write and speak basic English. 

They must show they have knowledge of U.S. history and government. Among the many questions individuals are given to study is “Who declared, ‘Give me liberty or give me death!’?” 

According to the Red Hill Director of Community Engagement and Programming Takisha Fowlkes, the event’s keynote speaker will be Virginia’s 48th Attorney General, Jason Miyares. Miyares is the first Hispanic American to be elected to a statewide office in Virginia, and the first child of an immigrant to be Attorney General.

Prior to the ceremony, guides will be in the Henry house, law office, and other historic buildings to provide information about Patrick Henry, his family, and the enslaved who lived and worked at Red Hill. 

In addition, 18th century interpreters will demonstrate spinning, weaving, and other hands-on activities. 

Seating for the ceremony begins at 10:15 a.m. and visitors are invited to stay following the ceremony for a reception hosted by the Patrick Henry Auxiliary and Brookneal Woman’s Club.

Admission is free for the public, but registration is requested. 

To register please visit: https://www.redhill.org/event/naturalization-ceremony-2/.