CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. - The 200th anniversary of George Washington's death will be recognized during a special ceremony Dec. 12 at Zion Episcopal Church in Charles Town.
The event, called "Evensong," will include music and an appearance by U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd, who will temporarily exchange his role of a Congressman for that of a preacher, according to the Rev. John W.T. Weise, interim rector at Zion.
Byrd, D-W.Va., was selected as the keynote speaker because of his great knowledge of American history, particularly involving the Washington family, Weise said.
"He's quite a Washington scholar," Weise said.
Although Washington, who died Dec. 12, 1799, was not buried in Charles Town, many of his family members were.
Local history buffs say they believe there are more members of Washington's family buried in Charles Town than any other place in the country.