Gunston Hall Group Set to Walk Out

The Gunstonians, known to visitors of l as the modern representations of 18th century historical figures, are beginning a hiatus in their relationship with the former George Mason plantation.

According to Laurie Kittle, who leads the all-volunteer Gunstonians, the decision is in protest of recent decisions by Gunston Hall management.

Last month, the longtime Education Coordinator at Gunston Hall . To some, the move was seen as the latest in a series of questionable moves by the site’s Director, David Reese.

Gunston Hall's Development Program Coordinator Susan Blankenship was not aware of any formal tender of resignation by the Gunstonians. "It's unfortunate they shared their intentions with the media first," Blankenship said.

Earlier this month, to make their feelings known to local politicians, the Education Committee of the General Assembly and the Secretary of Education. In an address to the Education Committee Jim Dillard, a member of Gunston Hall’s Board of Advisors, openly questioned Reese’s fitness for leadership. Gunston Hall receives a significant amount of funding from the state.

Kittle said her group, which numbers at about 25, will continue with its scheduled events at Gunston Hall, as on President’s Day, but will not do any further scheduling. The group will seek opportunities elsewhere in Northern Virginia.

“Everybody in our group is still committed to Gunston Hall and George Mason,” Kittle said. “We don’t just want to walk away from living history in Northern Virginia.”

She said the group’s primary issue is with Reese and indicated that only his departure as director will be sufficient enough for the Gunstonians to return.

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