A Special Luncheon with Our Founding Father John Adams: A Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of The Second Continental Congress, The Appointment of General Washington as Commander in Chief, and the Beginnings of an Independent Nation of Free People

Join American Heritage Partners for a special luncheon on May 10, 2025 in Lake Tahoe, California, featuring a performance by noted Chautauqua Mike Lebsock. Mr. Lebsock will appear as John Adams, speaking to us after the end of the Revolutionary War. Mr. Adams will share with us his recollections of the momentous events that took place in Philadelphia in May 1775, following the outbreak of the American Revolution in April 1775 at Lexington & Concord. It was on May 10, 1775 that the Second Continental Congress convened at Carpenter Hall to begin deliberations over the way forward: to seek peace with Great Britain, or to seek independence? Congress decided to do both: it created the Continental Army, but also sent its famous “Olive Branch Petition” to King George III. In the midst of this, the Battle of Bunker Hill took place. John Adams was at the center of these sessions, and was a guiding force in the drafting of the “Declaration of the Cause and Necessity of Taking Up Arms.” Mr. Adams will recall for us the sometimes-heated debates that took place at Carpenter Hall, and the behind the scenes negotiations that were conducted in nearby taverns. He’ll also discuss his private meetings and conversations with the likes of Samuel Adams, John Hancock, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson Patrick Henry, and other key political leaders, many of whom he knew well.

You won’t want to miss this fascinating performance, and help us celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress! Registration for our May 10 event will open in mid-March.