Chap. 416.—An ACT to create the “Cape Henry memorial commission.” and
define its powers. [S B 201]

Approved March 23, 1928

Whereas, the expedition which sailed from Blackwall on December
twentieth, sixteen hundred and six (old style) to colonize Virginia
and found the first permanent English settlement in America first came
to anchor in the bay of Chesapeake at the entrance and near its
southern shore in the early morning of April twenty-sixth, sixteen
hundred and seven; and,

Whereas, after sundry explorations, formal possession was taken
on April twenty-ninth, sixteen hundred and seven, and solemnized by
the planting of a cross, with religious exercises, and by giving the
name “Cape Henry” to the cape at the southern entrance; and,

Whereas, the expedition subsequently continued its exploration until
the selection of a permanent settlement at the spot now known as
Jamestown island; and,

Whereas, certain godly men and women have been accustomed for
many years to celebrate the planting of the cross by appropriate
religious ceremonies ; and,

Whereas, the Association for the Preservation of Virginia
Antiquities has recognized the historical importance of this first land-
ing by the erection near thereto of a commemorative tablet; and,

Whereas, the assembly of Tidewater Virginia women has been
active in the endeavor to emphasize the association of this spot with
our early annals; and other public-spirited citizens have shown similar
interest; and,

Whereas, it is fitting that the Commonwealth encourage the efforts

of these organizations and individuals by extending its moral support
and providing an agency through which their efforts may be facilitated ;
now, therefore,
' |. Be it enacted by the general assembly of Virginia, That the
governor is hereby authorized to appoint a commission of twelve, to
be known as the Cape Henry memorial commission. At the outset,
four shall be appointed for two years, four for three years, and four
for four years. Thereafter the term shall be four years, except in
the case of appointments to fill vacancies. One at least of the com-
mission shall be a member of the Association for the Preservation of
Virginia Antiquities, one at least of the commissioners shall be a quali-
fied voter of Princess Anne county.

The said commission is authorized to take all proper steps, either
directly or in conjunction with other agencies, societies, organizations
and individuals, towards commemorating the fact that the first landing
of the colonists in sixteen hundred and seven was at Cape Henry. To
that end it is authorized to apply to the State corporation commission
for such non-stock corporate charters of corporations not organized
for profit as may be deemed expedient; also to raise funds by subscrip-
tion or in any other proper way ; to enlist the aid of individuals, societies,
organizations or other agencies; and in general to do any lawful act to
further the objects aforesaid.

This historic event may be commemorated by the erection of such
memorials, the marking of such historic landmarks or structures, the
holding of such pageants, celebrations, commemorative exercises,
religious or otherwise, or the adoption of such other measures as may
be appropriate.

2. The said commission may elect such officers and adopt such
by-laws or regulations as may be expedient. It shall keep a record
of its proceedings. Five shall constitute a quorum at its meetings.

3. Nothing herein shall commit the Commonwealth, legally or
morally, to any cost or expense whatever in connection with the organi-
zation or operation of this commission.