A Son of the Revolution
Judge John Tyler, Sr. set a lasting standard for patriotism and public service. As a young man, he shared rooms with Thomas Jefferson at the College of William & Mary, where revolutionary ideas were already taking root. He was deeply moved when he heard Patrick Henry deliver his fiery Stamp Act speech at the Capitol in Williamsburg—a moment that helped ignite Virginia’s resistance to British rule.
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During the American Revolution, Tyler served as a captain in the Charles City County militia, standing in defense of the Commonwealth. In the years that followed, he continued to serve both Virginia and the young nation in numerous political roles, culminating in his appointment by James Madison to Virginia’s highest court.
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Judge Tyler carried forward the stories and principles of the Revolution within his own household, instilling in his children a deep respect for liberty and civic duty. His second son, John, would carry those ideals all the way to the White House.
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Sherwood Forest is proud to join the nation in commemorating this important milestone and to participate in educational programs that honor the legacy of the Revolution and the generations it inspired.
Judge John Tyler devoted his life to public service in the Commonwealth of Virginia, serving as a judge, governor, and legislator. A strong advocate for education, he also held a position on the Board of Visitors at the College of William & Mary. Today, his legacy is honored in the Tyler Garden, where his bust stands alongside those of his son, President John Tyler, and his grandson, Lyon Gardiner Tyler—each of whom also played meaningful roles in the life of the university.
Declaration
Book Club
Sherwood Forest is proud to join Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and the More Perfect initiative in promoting the Declaration Book Club, a program designed to help more Americans connect with our nation’s founding document.
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Through guided reading and discussion, the program invites participants to explore the meaning of the Declaration of Independence, consider its influence throughout American history, and reflect on its continued relevance today.
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Follow the link below to learn more and download the reader.
In Pursuit
Sherwood Forest is proud to be a part of In Pursuit, a national civics project of More Perfect and 43 presidential centers and sites. Leading American public figures and scholars will explore lessons from American presidents and several first ladies throughout 2026.
Essays will be published on Substack in chronological order throughout 2026. Join us and subscribe.
Christopher Leahy's essay on President John Tyler is expected on April 10!