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Meet the Author: Libby McNamee, author of Susanna's Midnight Ride
We’ve all heard of Paul Revere. But have you heard of Susanna Bolling?
On Saturday, Jan. 24, readers of all ages are invited to discover the true story of a teenage girl whose courage helped change the course of the American Revolution. Join Virginia author and historian Libby McNamee for a special Meet the Author events at both the Floyd and Blacksburg locations of the Montgomery-Floyd Regional Library celebrating her historical novel for young readers, Susanna’s Midnight Ride.
Set in late May 1781, Susanna’s Midnight Ride is based on the remarkable true story of 16-year-old Susanna Bolling of Virginia. As British General Cornwallis and his officers dined in her home at City Point, Susanna overheard their plan to capture French General Lafayette and crush the American rebellion. Under cover of darkness, Susanna escaped through a secret underground tunnel, canoed downriver, borrowed a neighbor’s horse, and rode ten miles to warn Lafayette, helping pave the way for the decisive Battle of Yorktown. The question that haunted her daring mission was simple and dangerous: could she make it home before sunrise without being discovered?
During the program, Libby McNamee will share Susanna’s extraordinary story, discuss the historical research behind the novel, and invite audiences to ride along with a young heroine whose bravery rivaled that of far more famous patriots.
Libby McNamee is a Virginia author and speaker whose work has helped restore Susanna Bolling’s place in American history. Based on McNamee’s research, the Virginia General Assembly designated December 5 as “Susanna Bolling Day.” A historic marker now commemorates Susanna’s courageous ride, and a new musical based on Susanna’s Midnight Ride premiered in Virginia Beach in 2025.
McNamee is the author of numerous acclaimed histories for young people, including Dolley Madison and the War of 1812: America’s First Lady, The Epic Story of 1776: 25 People, 13 Colonies, and 1 War, The Epic Story of 1777–1779: Trials, Turning Points, and Triumphs, and her new 2025 title The Union Spymistress: The Story of Elizabeth Van Lew.
This event is presented in partnership with Historic Smithfield and is an official Montgomery County 250 and Virginia 250 event.
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