The Howards of Virginia (1940) | Directed by Frank Lloyd

The Howards of Virginia is an American historical drama that traces the life of a rugged Virginian frontiersman, Matt Howard, who becomes swept up in the events leading to the American Revolution. The film follows his rise from humble beginnings to his involvement in the struggle for independence, juxtaposed with his marriage to Jane Peyton, a woman from an aristocratic family. Through personal and political conflict, the film explores the birth of a nation and the clash between class, ideals, and freedom.

Genre: Historical Drama, War, Romance

Director: Frank Lloyd

Frank Lloyd (1886–1960) was a Scottish-born American film director, screenwriter, and producer, and one of the most respected figures of early Hollywood. A founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Lloyd directed numerous silent and sound films across various genres. He won two Academy Awards for Best Director—for The Divine Lady (1929) and Cavalcade (1933)—and was nominated several times more. Known for his sweeping historical dramas and humanistic storytelling, Lloyd’s craftsmanship helped shape Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Star Cast:

Cary Grant as Matt Howard

Martha Scott as Jane Peyton Howard

Cedric Hardwicke as Fleetwood Peyton

Alan Marshal as Roger Peyton

Richard Carlson as Thomas Jefferson

Irving Bacon as Tom Norton

Paul Kelly as Benjamin Franklin

Elizabeth Risdon as Mrs. Norton

Montagu Love as Patrick Henry

Upon its release, The Howards of Virginia received moderate critical acclaim for its ambition and historical sweep. Critics praised its patriotic spirit and the performances of Cary Grant and Martha Scott, though some found the film uneven and overly sentimental. Audiences appreciated its blend of adventure, romance, and early American history, particularly as it was released at a time when the United States was on the brink of entering World War II. The film served as a timely reminder of democratic values and national unity.

Fun Facts:

The film was adapted from Elizabeth Page’s novel “The Tree of Liberty.”

This was one of Cary Grant’s rare forays into historical drama; he was more widely known for his contemporary comedies and thrillers.

Martha Scott’s performance earned strong reviews and helped solidify her transition from stage to screen after her debut in Our Town (1940).

The film’s production design sought to authentically recreate 18th-century Virginia, including colonial interiors and costuming.

Frank Lloyd, himself an immigrant, was drawn to the story’s themes of liberty and equality during a time of global conflict.

Richard Carlson’s portrayal of Thomas Jefferson marked one of his earliest film roles before becoming a familiar figure in 1950s cinema.

The Howards of Virginia was one of the first Columbia Pictures productions to be shot with a large-scale historical scope, paving the way for later patriotic dramas.

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