Step into a reproduction of General George Washington's Revolutionary War tent, the office and sleeping quarters that he used as the command center of the Continental Army.

Join the College Libraries for a private reception for The First Oval Office, featuring a hand-stitched replica tent and associated camp equipage and furnishings that promise to connect the Charleston community to the living legacy of America's founding.

The reception will offer an intimate experience to explore the tent and interact with the Museum of the American Revolution's historical interpreters. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be provided.

A one-night-only exhibit will be available for viewing in Addlestone Library, with items rarely, if ever, on public display.

Among the treasures only available for viewing on June 12 are the first edition of Thomas Paine's Common Sense – previously owned by Christopher Gadsden, founder of the Charleston Sons of Liberty and one of the most radical figures in South Carolina's patriot movement – and a letter from the Marquis de Lafayette to Henry Laurens, a South Carolina planter who served as president of the Continental Congress.

Each ticket holder will also receive a complimentary one-year membership in the College of Charleston Friends of the Library. 

The June 12th First Oval Office reception and exhibit opening is reserved exclusively for guests 21 years and older. The tent and exhibit will be open to the public of all ages June 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Please contact Vincent Fraley at fraleyv@cofc.edu or 843.953.5530 with questions.