The third son of Alexander Henderson Sr, Richard Henry chose to remain in eastern Virginia, settling with his wife Orra Moore Henderson in Loudoun County.
Richard Henry followed in his political father’s footsteps, becoming a member of the Virginia legislature. He attended the Virginia Constitutional Convention of 1829-1830. He also served as Attorney for the Commonwealth of Virginia and as a commissioner for the city of Leesburg, Virginia.
In August 1825, the French Marquis de Lafayette visited the United States. Richard Henry accompanied former President James Monroe and President John Quincy Adams as they escorted Lafayette from Oak Hill to Leesburg. It is estimated that approximately 10,000 people greeted the procession along the roadway. A banquet was held on the Leesburg courthouse lawn to celebrate Lafayette’s visit.
Of Note
Worked as an attorney in Leesburg, Virginia
Member of the Virginia Legislature
Attended the Virginia Constitutional Convention from 1829-1830
The Leesburg Spectator gave a detailed account of Layfayette’s visit. The article mentions Richard Henry’s attendance: “At half past ten, the troops of cavalry commanded by captains Chichester and Bradfield, paraded in front of' the mansion,— The officers being presented, and refreshments handed to the troopers, Gen. Lafayette, and suite, bade adieu to the family of the Ex-Presi-dent. The Guest of the Nation, the President of the United States, and tlie Ex-President, accompanied by Mr. Henderson, occupied a very handsome carriage, drawn by four elegant bay horses, provided for the occasion. Mr. G. W. Lafayette, and Col. Le Vasseur, attended by Mr. Ball, followed in another, Judge Hay, and the Son of the President, followed in the carriage of the President, and were themselves followed by other gentlemen, the visitants of thd Ex-President, invited to partake the hospitalities of the county and village.”
