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 and development of America's defense industry and emphasize the crucial role that informed citizens, communities, and companies play in promoting freedom, democracy, and just security for all.
James Hunter established the largest ironworks in 18th-century North America in Stafford, County Virginia. At the request of Founding Fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, Hunter provided arms and war materials for both Virginia and Continental forces, thus laying the foundation for America’s defense industry. CAP’s “Freedom Forge Initiative” aims to elevate, educate, and preserve this often-overlooked story, along with the revolutionary ideals of freedom, democracy, and justice that it represents. The initiative seeks to inspire current and future generations to continue the work of creating a more perfect union as expressed in the U.S. Constitution
THE HARM
Forgotten History To Inform The Present
Countries rely on both domestic and multilateral defense systems to safeguard their citizens from national security threats, especially in today’s unpredictable and volatile world. CAP, along with its nongovernmental partners, advance accountability, transparency, and justice in the security and defense sectors as they respond to national security challenges.
CAP empowers civil society engagement and the next generation of leaders in the defense and security sectors by hosting meaningful dialogues, fostering critical thinking, and raising awareness of historical developments to broaden insights and perspectives.

​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.
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THE CHANGE
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Researched untold and diverse stories contributing to the birth and evolution of America’s Defense Industry.
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Initiated preservation of the endangered Hunter’s Iron Works site.
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Organized VA250-related events commemorating James Hunter, Hunter’s Iron Works, and the Birth of America’s Defense Industry.
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Established partnerships to foster historical, cultural, ecological, and tourism benefits to a wide array of stakeholders.
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Encouraged and activated local community participation and volunteer services for commemoration activities and public outreach.
CONTINUING THE WORK​
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Documenting hidden histories to amplify diverse voices and contributions;
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Advancing educational events and programming at the county, state, and national level.
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Preserving the endangered Hunter’s Iron Works historical site:
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Highlighting pathways to civic engagement with the defense and security sectors while advocating for accountability, transparency and justice within.
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Inspiring patriotism and fostering common ground through education and participation.
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INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?​​
EVENTS
SUPPORT OUR WORK​
CAP's Freedom Forge Initiative is our newest program, and your generous donation will help us maintain our exciting momentum.
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