HISTORICAL VIRAGOS
Defiant Spirits is an ongoing collaboration between Virago Spirits and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture that brings history to life through storytelling, cocktails, and shared experience. This unique event series highlights bold, influential individuals who helped shape Virginia’s past, with each installment inspired by the Museum’s current exhibitions and programming.
At its core, Defiant Spirits explores the intersection of culture, community, and craft—pairing historically inspired cocktails from Virago with engaging conversations, guest speakers, and immersive narratives. Guests are invited to connect with history in a meaningful way, raising a glass to the people, ideas, and stories that continue to shape our world.
Upcoming event:
defiant spirits: Stella Dikos
Join us on May 20th as we honor Stella Dikos, one of Virginia’s most beloved immigrants, for our next Defiant Spirits event in partnership with Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Known for her defiant spirit, strength, and unforgettable presence, Stella brought people together through her warmth, creativity, and passion for food—leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
**please note: this event will be held at Virginia Museum of History & Culture
JULIA CHILD
Julia Child can be considered a virago in the most positive sense of the word. She was a trailblazer in the culinary world, fearlessly breaking down barriers in a male-dominated field with her authoritative yet approachable demeanor. Child's relentless determination and passion for cooking transformed American cuisine and empowered countless home cooks to embrace French cooking techniques. Her towering presence, both physically and in spirit, combined with her unapologetic confidence and dedication, exemplifies the strength, courage, and formidable spirit often attributed to a virago.
john dabney
John Dabney is considered a Virago because he embodied boldness, resilience, and quiet defiance in the face of systemic barriers. Born into slavery in Richmond, he rose to become one of the most celebrated mixologists of the 19th century, earning international recognition for his culinary talent at a time when opportunities for Black entrepreneurs were severely limited. Dabney built his reputation through excellence, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his craft, ultimately purchasing his freedom and creating a legacy that fed and brought together communities across Virginia. His story reflects the very spirit of a Virago—someone who challenges expectations, forges their own path, and leaves a lasting impact through courage and creativity.
zipporah cohen
A trailblazing Virago in every sense, Zipporah Michelbacher Cohen embodied fearless leadership and compassionate action. The daughter of Rabbi Michelbacher, Congregation Beth Ahabah’s first rabbi and the inspiration behind the founding of the Ladies Hebrew Association (now JFS), Zipporah carried forward her family’s legacy with remarkable strength and vision. A gifted leader and steadfast advocate, she became a driving force in Richmond’s philanthropic community, guiding Jewish Family Services through some of the most challenging moments of the early 20th century—including epidemics, the Great Depression, and World War I. Her courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to others made her the very personification of a Virago: bold, pioneering, and deeply rooted in service.
maggie walker
Maggie Walker was visionary, courageous, and unrelenting in her pursuit of progress. As the first African American woman to charter and serve as president of a bank in the United States, she shattered barriers in a time when both race and gender posed immense obstacles. A powerful voice for economic empowerment and education, Walker led the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank and uplifted countless Black families in Richmond through financial independence and community investment. Her leadership extended beyond business, as she championed civil rights and social justice with unwavering determination. Maggie Walker’s legacy is a testament to the power of fearless women who refuse to be confined—true Viragos who change the world.
