Floyd library to host 'Susanna’s Midnight Ride' author for VA250

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 event at the Jessie Peterman Memorial Library to celebrate 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 10 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. A Boston native who now lives in Richmond, McNamee is also a veteran, having served as a U.S. Army JAG Officer in Korea, Bosnia, Germany, and Washington State.

Based on McNamee’s research, the Virginia General Assembly designated Dec. 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."

Meet McNamee and learn more about "Susanna's Midnight Ride" at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24. The Floyd library is located at 321 W. Main St. Additional information is available online at www.mfrl.org.

This event is presented in partnership with Historic Smithfield and is an official Montgomery County 250 and Virginia 250 event.