AMPLIFYING HISTORY TO GUIDE FORWARD ACTION

In 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the founding of our nation. This significant milestone presents CAP with an opportunity to educate the public about the origins, development, and impacts of America's defense industry and emphasize the crucial role that informed citizens, communities, and companies play in promoting freedom, democracy, and security for all.

In our fledgling nation's quest for independence, a lesser known business pioneer from Stafford, Virginia played a pivotal role that continues to resonate today. James Hunter established the largest iron and gun manufacturing complex in 18th-century North America. At the request of Founding Fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, Hunter's forge provided arms, naval fittings, camp kits, iron implements, and other war material for both Virginia and Continental forces, thus laying the foundation for America’s defense industry. CAP’s “Freedom Forge Initiative” aims to preserve, highlight, and inform others of this overlooked story and the revolutionary principles of freedom, democracy, and justice it embodies. This initiative seeks to inspire future generations to continue building a more perfect union, as originally expressed in the U.S. Constitution.

THE HARM

Forgotten History To Inform The Present

In today's volatile and unpredictable world, America relies on the defense sector to safeguard its citizens and allies against national security risks. Understanding the history of the defense sector can help prevent past mistakes from recurring and provide lessons learned to guide informed decision-making both now and in the future.

CAP empowers civil society and the next generations of leaders by broadening critical thinking, insights, and perspectives on America's defense and security sectors. We achieve this by raising awareness of historical developments, hosting meaningful dialogues and events, and fostering civic engagement. We also advance a collective approach to the defense industry based on accountability, transparency, and alignment with human rights and freedoms.

THE STORY

In many ways, this story hits home for CAP. Our executive director is a related descendent of James Hunter. She has also been at the forefront of highlighting the significance of James Hunter’s Iron Works and its role in giving rise to America’s defense industry. In the lead up to our nation’s Semiquincentennial, CAP has forged partnerships and organized scheduled commemorative events to elevate awareness at the county, state, and national levels. We are currently proactive in efforts to preserve and interpret the original site and create educational and expert programming to guide and inspire future generations and leaders. Current partners include Discover Stafford, the Stafford Historical Society, StaffordVA250, the City of Fredericksburg, the VA250 Commission, and Preservation Virginia, among others.

THE CHANGE

Researched untold and diverse stories contributing to the birth and evolution of America’s Defense Industry;
Initiated preservation of the endangered Hunter’s Iron Works site;
Organized VA250-related events commemorating James Hunter, Hunter’s Iron Works, and the Birth of America’s Defense Industry;
Established partnerships to foster historical, cultural, ecological, and tourism benefits to a wide array of stakeholders;
Encouraged and activated local community participation and volunteer services for commemoration activities and public outreach.

CONTINUING THE WORK

Documenting hidden histories to amplify diverse voices and contributions.
Advancing educational events and programming at the county, state, and national level.
Preserving the endangered Hunter’s Iron Works historical site.
Highlighting pathways to civic engagement with international peace and security sectors while advocating for accountability, transparency and justice within.
Inspiring patriotism and fostering common ground through education and participation.