Town Crier Articles

 

There may have been more devoted public servants than John Marshall, but one would be hard-pressed to name them. The fourth chief justice of the United States, Marshall remains the longest serving chief justice and fourth-longest serving justice in Supreme Court history.

 

Prior to that, Marshall served as the country’s fourth United States Secretary of State under President John Adams. And before that, Marshall fought in the Revolutionary War, won election to the House of Representatives, and emerged as a leader of the Federalist Party in Congress.

 

There were at least two other great passions in Marshall’s life. One was his wife, Polly. The other was his home in Richmond.

 

On Saturday, February 12 from 5-7 p.m., you and your spouse/date/companion can explore both in a Valentine’s Day special event titled “My Dearest Polly." For $25, you have access to Marshall’s home, built in 1790, as well as vignettes that explore their love through letters and stories, guided by the John Marshall House staff.

 

In addition, light refreshments will be served in the museum gift shop and are included in the price of your ticket.

 

Marshall met Mary "Polly" Ambler, the youngest daughter of Virginia state treasurer Jaquelin Ambler, during the Revolutionary War. They were married on January 3, 1783. The Marshalls had 10 children; six of whom survived to adulthood. Among them was Thomas Marshall, who would eventually serve in the Virginia House of Delegates.

 

The John Marshall House is located at 818 East Marshall Street in Richmond. To obtain tickets, visit this website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/my-dearest-polly-special-valentines-day-open-house-tickets-218503528937.