Getaway ... Explore the hidden treasures of the Northern Neck and beyond
SPRING/SUMMER 2015
FREE
Grape Expectations Virginia’s vineyards are crushing it
Welcome to Virginia’s Northern Neck! This is an area rich in history, culture and natural beauty. We can, without hesitation, refer to it as God’s country. Are you looking to get away from it all? Then come to the Northern Neck. This is the ideal spot to visit for an extended vacation or just a lazy afternoon’s drive. Whether you’re interested in seeking out the works of local artisans, exploring the roots of America’s fight for independence, hiking a nature trail or enjoying a glass of wine, the Northern Neck offers something for everyone. And speaking of wine, part of the focus for this year’s Getaway is the fine vineyards that have sprouted across the Northern Neck. If you haven’t been paying attention, wine is now a big business for Virginia. More than 30 years ago, as it worked to diversify its agricultural enterprises, the commonwealth began encouraging some in the farming business to cultivate grapes for wine production. Many undoubtedly scratched their heads
at this proposition. After all, at the time, Napa Valley in California was seen as the heart of American wine production. Fast forward three decades. Today, Virginia boasts roughly 225 wineries - five times as many as in 1995. The Old Dominion now ranks fifth in the nation for the number of wineries that grace its countryside. And among the premier wineries in Virginia are those located in the Northern Neck. So take a leisurely trip and pause to sip the best fruit of the vine that the commonwealth can offer. While you’re rolling across the Northern Neck, check out the region’s many exhibits, museums, festivals and events. Discover the charm of hamlets such as King George, Montross, Essex and Reedville that dot the countryside as you move toward the coast. Enjoy the bounty of the area’s fields and waterways by sampling local cuisine at the wonderful restaurants that proudly serve
travelers and locals alike. We hope the spring/summer edition of Getaway will inspire you to take time to explore the places and events highlighted. If you’re visiting, stay awhile. If you’re looking for a new place to call home, look no further. The Northern Neck truly is an amazing community. We hope you enjoy the time you spend with us.
The Getaway Getaway is published by Journal Press, Inc., of King George County. The Getaway is for both locals and tourists visiting the Northern Neck and regional visitor locations, and is published two times a year. Each issue highlights attractions in the counties of the Northern Neck and surrounding areas, as well as the City of Fredericksburg. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced without written permission. P. O. Box 409, King George, Virginia, 22485 (540) 775-2024, FAX (540) 775-4099. Publisher General Manager Editor Production Advertising
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
www.journalpress.com
Jessica Herrink Robert Berczuk George Whitehurst Drue Murray and Cynthia L. Ailey Hilleary Thoren and Dennis Verdak
Page 1
Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail lures tourists George Whitehurst It winds from King George all the way to Irvington - past bucolic farmland and to the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The Northern Neck’s Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail not only offers visitors entry into the world of Virginia’s wine industry, it is symbolic of how far the industry has come the past 20 years. “Starting from less than 10 wineries in the 1970s... it’s become quite a large industry and brings a lot of business to the state,” said Chris Flemer, marketing director for Ingleside Vineyards in Oak Grove. Only in the last 20 years has the industry developed beyond novelty status in Virginia to become an increasingly important part of its economy. The commonwealth’s approximately 225 wineries is five times what it had in 1995 and ranks it fifth in the country for number of wineries
Page 2
(behind California, Washington, Oregon and New York). It also ranks 15th in the nation in wine production by gallon. “The industry has grown tremendously,” said Mitzi Batterson, president of the Virginia Wineries Association. “Getting people to try new wines has exploded the industry.” Another reason for the growth has been improved marketing, which includes wineries hosting more family-friendly events with activities that also appeal to children as opposed to oldfashioned wine tastings aimed strictly at adults, Batterson said. “It’s become a place where people can relax and hang out,” she said. She said the industry still has room for growth in the commonwealth as more vineyards become full-fledged wineries. She also praised the commonwealth’s various wine trails, such
Photo courtesy Oak Crest Winery Visitors to the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail can enjoy beautiful views while sipping delicious wines. as the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, as ideas that bolster the industry’s growth by increasing accessibility to wineries. “It makes it nice if people want to check out several places,” she said. “The trails have helped the wineries work together.” Flemer, who chairs the local wine trail’s marketing committee, said the idea for the trail arose from conversations between the growing number of Northern Neck vintners and state and regional tourism authorities. Creating the trail has been a boon for individual wineries and is drawing more visitors to eastern Virginia, he said. “It’s kind of coming together to promote as a group. Most wineries in Virginia are kind of on the smaller side, and our marketing budgets are smaller,” Flemer said. “When you’re all kind of working together . . . you get the benefit of working to bring people out to the area, which is one of the larger overall goals - to bring people out to the Northern Neck.” Nine wineries make up the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. The participants pool their resources to create and distribute marketing materials, as well as put on special events aimed at wine connoisseurs. Twice a year - in the spring and autumn - the trail hosts an
www.journalpress.com
Oyster Crawl, which pairs an array of Virginia wines with a variety of oyster dishes. Dorothy Brandts, who helps her husband, Conrad, operate Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery in King George, looks forward to the special events, as it gives her a chance to mix and mingle. “I’m a people person,” she said. “We like to come in and sit down with and visit with the friends we’ve made over the years.” Visitors to the Chesapeake Wine Trail can take advantage of the free “Passport Program.” Pick up a passport at the first winery you visit; then get it stamped at each winery you visit. Get a stamp from seven of the participating wineries and enjoy a 10 percent discount in the coming year. Get a stamp from all nine wineries and receive a 15 percent discount. The trail also offers a limited number of “Tasting Passes” for $30 apiece or four for $100. Purchasing a pass entitles the holder to a free tasting at any of the wineries on the trail. “We’re unique. It’s a step back in time,” Brandts said. “It’s a nice, quiet vacation. It’s away from the traffic and all of the hustle and bustle.” For more information, go to www.chesapeakebaywinetrail. com.
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Make a stop at all the wineries on the trail! Athena Vineyards Elegant wines in an elegant setting on the Great Wicomico River. Come by car or boat. Hours: Jan.-April, Fri.-Sun., noon-5p.m. May-Dec., Wed.-Sun., noon6p.m. 3138 Jessie Dupont Memorial Hwy Heathsville, VA 22473 (804) 580-4944 Belle Mount Vineyards Meaning beautiful hill, Belle Mount overlooks the scenic Rappahannock River and Cat Point Creek. Hours: March-Dec. 15, Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 2570 Newland Rd Warsaw, VA 22572 (804) 333-4700 www.bellemount.com General’s Ridge Vinyard This historic 150-plus yearold estate has three tasting and event rooms, and two short-term rental homes. Hours: Thurs., noon-5p.m.; Fri., noon-7 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1618 Weldons Dr Hague, VA 22469 (804) 472-3172 www.generalsridgevineyard. com Good Luck Cellars Join us for Friday Wine Down, bring your supper and enjoy a bottle of our wine on our porch! Hours: Sun. & Mon., noon-5p.m.; Thurs & Sat, 11a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday, 11a.m.-8p.m. 1025 Good Luck Rd. Kilmarnock, VA 22482 (804) 435-1416
Ingleside Vineyards One of the oldest and largest wineries in Virginia, Ingleside features a European-style courtyard, perfect for a glass of wine and picnic lunch. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10a.m.5p.m.; Sun, noon-5p.m. 5872 Leedstown Rd. Oak Grove, VA 22443 (804) 224-8687 www.inglesidevineyards. com
Vault Field Vineyards Located on historic Vault Field Farm near the town of Kinsale, in the heart of Virginia’s Northern Neck. Hours: Feb.-Dec., Thurs.Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m.: summer open until 6 p.m. 2953 Kings Mill Rd. Kinsale, VA 22488 (804) 472-4430 www.vaultfieldvineyards.com
Jacey Vineyards Located on Mill Creek, visit us by boat or car. Anchor out or stay in a villa. Hours: April-Dec., Wed.Sat., 11a.m.-5p.m.; Sunday, 11a.m.-3p.m. 619 Train Lane Wicomico Church, VA 22579 (804) 580-4053 www.jaceyvineyards.com Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery Come experience the quiet oasis of our small chateaustyle winery and friendly staff. Hours: Jan-Feb, Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.; MarchDec., Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.5p.m. 8215 Oak Crest Dr. King George, VA 22485 (540) 663-2813 www.oakcrestwinery.com The Dog and Oyster Home of the world’s largest corkscrews and the Virginia Wine and Oyster Classic. Hours: April-Nov., daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec.-March, Sat. & Sun. 11a.m.-5p.m. 170 White Fences Dr. Irvington, VA 22480 (804) 438-9463 www.hopeandglory.com
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
:,1( 7$67,1* $1' $57,6$1 *,)7 6+23 23(1 :(' 681
2$. &5(67 '5,9( ‡ .,1* *(25*( 9$
ZZZ RDNFUHVWZLQHU\ FRP
www.journalpress.com
Page 3
Essex Museum winning widespread praise for historical exhibits Richard Leggitt Nine years ago, the Essex County Museum and the Essex County Historical Society joined forces to celebrate the history and heritage of the Rappahannock River town and its people. In so doing, they have created a museum that has won widespread praise in Virginia and beyond. The Essex Museum proudly displays the county’s history, including Capt. John Smith’s 1608 encounters with the Rappahannock Indians, protests against British rule by the Sons of Liberty, the mustering of Confederate soldiers for the Civil War,
the Steamboat Era and events in modern Tappahannock and Essex County. “We have tremendous community support, very influential donors and a large group of dedicated, talented volunteers,� Museum President Ron Geiger said. “Their support allows us to have the opportunity to provide a wonderful museum experience.� The museum, located at 218 Water Lane in Tappahannock, attracts hundreds of visitors to its exhibits each month. It also provides educational opportunities to students and their mentors. Museum staff and volunteers work diligently to answer researchers’ queries about
Diagnostic, Preventative,
Restorative, Surgical and
Orthodontia Services for
MEDICAD, FAMIS, AND FAMIS PLUS CHILDREN
the county’s heritage. A current exhibit is the “Rappahannock Voyage: The Story of Essex and the River,� which is displayed in the Carl D. Silver Gallery and focuses on the Rappahannock River and its history. It includes a skiff on loan from the Deltaville Maritime Museum. “Our curator is David Jett,� said Geiger. “He is an excellent and talented artist. He created a mural that is a map of the Rappahannock River except that it maps the points of history on the river.� Another featured exhibit, which opened in April, is “Standing in the Gap: The Rappahannock Industrial Acad-
emy 1902-1948,� which tells the story of the local high school that served young AfricanAmericans during that period. It includes documents and photographs of students and alumni of the frame school that was located Essex County. The museum uses art and history to describe the heritage of the area from pre-historic times through the present, including Capt. John Smith’s adventures in the area and along the Rappahannock River, which he called “an excellent, pleasant, well inhabited, fertill, and goodly navigable river.� Also recounted is Essex County’s participation in the revolutionary fervor that led
If you live, work, worship, or attend school in King George
YOU
are ELIGIBLE to JOIN.
! ! (Limited coverage is also available for adults, age 21 and over)
Credit union membership � ��Medicaid ����������������� ���������� ‡ Please be advised we only treat
gives you outstanding benefits. recipients. ‡ We are unable to accepte payment for services. ! "# # $ ‡ Providing Dental Care for%&'() * + the Smiles for Children Program. * , -.
! !
OPEN YOUR ACCOUNT TODAY!
" # $
Always accepting � �� ����������������� ���������� new patients!
! "# #
$
%&'() * + * , -.
Page 4
" # $
™
4483 James Madison Parkway
www.narfepremierfcu.org • 540.644.9515
www.journalpress.com
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
to the repeal of the Stamp Act and the events leading up to the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence. Several Essex leaders, including John Upshaw and Meriweather Smith, played prominent roles in America’s early days. Also on exhibit at the Essex Museum is a beautifully restored 1864 Civil War cannon along with examples of the type of ammunition it fired. The cannon was given to Essex County but had fallen into disrepair and was painstakingly restored by the museum.
The Essex County Museum and Historical Society is able to create breathtaking exhibits and expand as needed thanks to their large museum building that was purchased with the help of key donors. “We were fortunate that several years ago we were able to purchase our current building, thanks to the generosity of some wonderful people,” said Geiger. “Thanks to them we were able to acquire a very nice physical plant for the museum and we have plenty of room to do what we need to do.”
If you want to go: What: Essex Museum Where: 218 Water Ln., Tappahannock Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Mon.-Tue., Thu.-Sat. For more information: Go to www.essexmuseum.org or call (804) 443-4690 Photo courtesy of the Essex County Museum A wooden rowing skiff is just one of the many charming exhibits at the Essex County Museum.
Photo courtesy Ingleside Winery Come enjoy beautiful sunsets and a glass of wine at the many stops on the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
www.journalpress.com
Page 5
Belle Grove Plantation in King George Birthplace of James Madison Phyllis Cook Belle Grove Plantation Bed and Breakfast in King George County has gained an excellent reputation for hospitality since Brett and Michelle Darnell of Darnell Hospitality, LLC opened its doors to the public at the historic mansion in Aug. 2013. In April of this year, they received news that Trip Advisor has ranked Belle Grove as the Number 2 bed and breakfast in Virginia, out of 706 such inns across the commonwealth. “It is our honor to share this plantation, from its long and illustrious history to its natural beauty and breath-taking sun-
Belle Grove Bed and Breakfast is a sight to be seen at sunset.
Located in the “Old Jail” on the east end of the King George County Courthouse on Kings Highway, the museum is open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or by appointment by calling 540-775-9477 or e-mailing kghistory@verizon.net. ADMISSION: Free Page 6
sets,” Michelle Darnelle said. “We welcome all to come and experience Belle Grove Plantation this year.” The plantation house appears on the Virginia Historic Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. Francis Conway, for whom Port Conway was named, was the grandfather of President James Madison. The Belle Grove plantation house was built circa 1791 and stands on or near the site of a previous house where Madison was born on March 16, 1751. Shortly before giving birth to her first child - American Revolutionary, father of the U.S. Constitution, the fourth President of the United States - Eleanor Rose “Nelly” Conway Madison traveled to her ancestral home at Belle Grove to be with her mother for the birth.
Guided Tours In addition to overnight stays
www.journalpress.com
Photo by Richard Harrison and special events, the historic plantation house can be visited for guided tours. Each room is filled with antiques that reflect a time in the history of this grand Southern plantation. Tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., and need not be scheduled in advance, except for groups. Prior to traveling, tourists are urged to check in at www.bellegroveplantation.com to ensure a private event is not in progress. Charges for tours are $10 per adult and $5 for children under 12 years, with children 4 and under free. Seniors over 55 or over and retired or active military are charged $8. Tickets may be purchased at the mansion with a credit card or exact cash. For large group tours of 1020 people, the charge is $5 per person, with two weeks’ advance notice requested.
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Explore the grounds, bird watching The Darnells invite the public to walk the grounds where a president was born. Grounds are open for free viewing, with restrictions on the outbuildings and caretakers home. The grounds are open Wed. through Sun., 1-4 p.m. Belle Grove Plantation offers excellent bird watching opportunities for local, migrating and rare birds. Wooded areas, fields and the river side provide birdwatchers with the chance to glimpse numerous species, including bald eagles. March through September brings the resident ospreys, dubbed James and Dolley.
guests at the plantation house along the Rappahannock River. It’s also gaining in popularity as a destination for celebrations such as weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. Belle Grove Plantation tastefully blends the advantages of modern day service with the charm of authentic Old South surroundings to provide memorable occasions. Small group events can be held within the mansion. Larger groups can be accommodated both inside and outside the mansion. Pre-ordered catering for private gatherings is available. Email: information@bellegroveplantation.com or call (540) 621-7340 to discuss and schedule meal options.
Special Occasions It’s a beautiful location for a unique weekend stay, with four luxury suites for overnight
Upcoming events at Belle Grove Mother’s Day Tea Sat., May 2 1-4p.m. Murder Mystery Night Sat., May 16 7-11 p.m. Red, White and Blues Picnic date TBD Grounds open at 5p.m. Murder Mystery Night Sat., July 25 7-11 p.m. Murder Mystery Night Sat., Aug. 22 7-11 p.m. Wedding Open House Sun., Sept. 20 1-4 p.m.
Paranormal Nights 2015 Fri., Oct. 23/30 and Sat., Oct. 24/31 Daytime Tours and Meet and Paranormal Team – Sat., Oct. 24/31 – 1-4p.m. Nighttime Investigations – Fri. and Sat. – 8p.m.-4 a.m. Christmas Tea Sat., Dec. 5 1-4 p.m. Christmas Candlelight Tours Thursday, Dec. 17; Fri., Dec. 18; Sat., Dec. 19; Sun., Dec. 20 Daytime Tours – 1-4p.m. Nighttime Candlelight Tours – 7-9 p.m.
We've got your hunger covered in the Northern Neck
® Locally Owned by William Washington
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
www.journalpress.com
Page 7
Reedville Fisherman’s Museum documents history on the water George Whitehurst Gently flowing Cockrell’s Creek offers a soothing atmosphere for visitors to the hamlet of Reedville. Beneath the glassy surface of those waters team the schools of menhaden and other fish that have sustained the town’s economy for more than a century. The Reedville Fisherman’s Museum recounts the history of commercial fishing the area and offers visitors a fascinating look at the tools of the trade. Step inside the museum and be transported back to 1874, when a Maine fisherman named Elijah Reed sought warmer waters for his operation and purchased property on Cockrell’s Creek. Reed prospered and laid the foundation of the town that now bears his name. Today Reedville is the second-largest commercial fishing port in the United States, running close behind the wintry port of Kodiak Alaska. In the mid-1980s, a group of Reedville residents decided the time had come to preserve their community’s history in a museum. The Greater Reedville Association bought the William Walker House in 1986. After two years of extensive restoration, the house opened its doors as the Reedville Fisherman’s Museum. The museum began growing into an extensive campus in 1995, when it acquired the Covington House, which now serves as the main exhibition hall. The addition of the Pendleton Building in 2003 allowed
Photo courtesy Reedville Fisherman’s Museum The Reedville Fisherman’s Museum gives visitors a chance to learn about life on the water and the role fishermen play in Virginia’s economy. the museum to consolidate operations of its boat and model shops. Shawn Hall, the museum’s director, praised the community for its dedication to both the museum and preservation of Reedville’s historic district. “Through the dedication of all the volunteers we’ve kept growing year after year to where we are now,” he said. Volunteers man the boat shop, which restores and sells donated boats in order to help fund the museum. The shop also maintains the museum fleet, including the skipjack, Claude W. Somers, and the deck boat, Elva C, both of which ferry museum members around the waters of Cockrell Creek. The Foggy River, a deadrise open boat, is undergoing restoration and will serve
Serving Patients ages 2 to 102 One-visit crowns, clear braces, dentures, implants Delta Dental & Cigna PPO Preferred Provider
We accept Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express, and Care Credit.
FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY Wendy M. Moore, DDS (540) 775-5774
www.wendymooredds.com
Page 8
www.journalpress.com
as a “floating classroom” on which visitors can learn about oyster harvesting, pound net fishing, and crabbing. The model shop produces the model boats and lighthouses and the dioramas of Reedville that give visitors a feel for the area’s history and culture. The Reedville Fisherman’s Museum hosts a wide array of activities throughout the year. Tickets are now on sale for the Honkytonk Heroes benefit concert, 6-10 p.m. on May 16. And on the second and fourth Fridays of each month from March through September, the museum hosts Cocktails on the Creek, a chance for a leisurely cruise on the Elva C before enjoying a refreshing beverage back at the dock. Want to go? What: Reedville Fisherman’s Museum Where: 504 Main St., Reedville, VA 22539 When: Open Fri.-Sun., 10:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Admission: Adults $5, Seniors $3, children 12 and under free For more information: Go to www.rfmuseum.org or call (804) 453-6529. Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Northern Neck Farm Museum serves up agricultural history George Whitehurst They have been Virginia’s backboned since the Colonial Era. They work from sunup to sundown. They were the original stewards of the environment. Day in and day out, farmers till Virginia’s rich soil to produce the food that fills tables across the commonwealth. To learn more about the dedication and innovation of the region’s farmers, take a jaunt down Route 360 to Heathsville. There you’ll find the Northern Neck Farm Museum, which offers visitors a glimpse of the evolution of farm life in Virginia. The museum is the brainchild of the late Luther Welch, a Northumberland farmer who practiced his craft with pride and had a passion for sharing the history of farming. In many ways, Luther was the ultimate recycler. Instead of scrapping outdated farm machinery, he stored it and collected similar equipment from his neighbors. In 2004, Luther and his wife, Margaret, began talking with friends about starting a museum to house the antique farm implements and to educate the next generation on the importance of farming. The Northern Neck Farm Museum officially opened in 2006. Two years later, work was completed on a large red barn that now houses the collection. Bonnie Chandler, the museum’s vice chair, got involved with the museum in part because her family operates a Westmoreland farm. Young people, she says, need to have some understanding of food production. “[The museum] gives them a better perspective not just on how the grocery story got [the food],” she said, “but how it was produced.” The volunteer “farm hands” who staff the museum walk school children through exhibits on farm life as part of the Agriculture in the Classroom program. The exhibits include a wide array of farm tools ranging from hand-held scythes to a collection of tractors including a John Deere dating from the late 1920s. “[Students] love to see all those things Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Photo courtesy of The Northern Neck Farm Museum Antique tractors are just a few of the items on display at the Northern Neck Farm Museum. Visitors to the museum can take a step back in time and learn about the rise of agriculture and its continuing importance to the people and communities of the Old Dominion. that are so distant from what they see now,” Chandler said. “They learn that farming is business. I like for them to understand the bigger picture - where [farming] came from and where it is today.” Visitors young and old can also get some hands-on experience working with Northern Neck master gardeners in the museum’s working gardens. Food raised in the gardens is donated to the Westmoreland Food Bank. There’s also a “Lil’ Farmers” program where kids can read, play farm games and learn about the life of a farmer by exploring child-size replicas of typical farm buildings. Other displays feature other types of equipment found on a farm, including hand tools, horse-drawn plows, a dog-powered pulley machine and a hand-powered seed cleaning machine, as well as one that details the life of a farm wife that outline all www.journalpress.com
the important tasks she did to help sustain the farm. The museum hosts a pair of Farm to Fork dinners in May and October that feature locally grown food. It also operates a cornfield maze and holds a Family Fall Festival in late October. The museum will open its regular season on May 2. Want to go? What: The Northern Neck Farm Museum Where: 12705 Northumberland Highway, Heathsville Hours: May-October Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays, 1-4 p.m. For more information: www. thefarmmusem.org Page 9
Custom lures made with pride Mark Fike
These days, most fishing tackle seems to be made in China. Finding a piece of fishing tackle not made in Asia is a tough task. However, anglers residing in the Northern Neck have a professional custom lure maker among them. Douglas Gray IV, owner of the Killer Bee Company, owns a lure-making shop in Lottsburg in Northumberland County. Gray has deep roots in the King George area. His grandfather, Douglas Gray II, retired from the U.S. Army as a major and later from Naval Surface Warfare Center. Gray’s father graduated from King George High School and was commissioned in the Army at West Point. He later gave his life in Vietnam as part of the 82nd Airborne Unit; the mess hall at NSWC was named after him. Gray spent his childhood being tutored in the art of fishing from both of his grandfathers on the Potomac River near Dahlgren and Kinsale. Gray’s professional credentials include working on four different charter boats and competing in numerous tournaments. With this experience to guide him, Gray makes his own lures, which include custom bucktails and jigs from 3/8 of an ounce for puppy drum all the way up to 16 ounces for blue water fishing for white marlin. His business began with the desire to make something better than he was buying. Gray’s countless years on the water told him a better bait could be made and he set out to make it. “Obviously, I want to be able to produce a bait that catches more fish,” he said. “I also enjoy seeing a new mix of colors, eyes or combinations that out Page 10
Killer Bee baits, like this jig, are handmade and painted custom colors to attract fish. produce what many may feel is a standby bait. It is really cool to see pictures of fish caught by anglers from New Jersey to North Carolina with my baits hanging out of their mouths.” Indeed, his business has taken off. His lures are now regularly part of the tackle selection on charter boats up and down the mid-Atlantic and a growing number of private boats. Currently, Gray’s Killer Bee baits are selling at RW’s in Callao and at the Northern Neck Ace Hardware in Kilmarnock. “We have carried Killer Bee baits for over a year now and they are by far our most popular rockfish bait,” said Ace Hardware manager Ryan Stevens. ”In fact, I use them on my boat now.” Gray takes custom orders and is working on getting a website up and running that will allow anglers to choose individual colors, eyes, bucktail and sizes to their liking.
Killer Bee Company owner Douglas Gray IV makes all of his baits as evident by this work station and myriad colors at the drying station.
www.journalpress.com
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
What’s happening around the Northern Neck Throughout season
June, 2015
1st Fridays of Month Montross First Fridays Artwalk lhull@nnpdc17.state.va.us Irvington Farmer’s Market (804) 438-9371 irvingtonmarket@yahoo.com www.irvingtonva.org 2nd Fridays of Month 2nd Friday Art Walk in Colonial Beach (W) www.colonialbeachartistsguild.org Saturdays King George Farmers’ Market KG Elementary School www.thefarmersmarket.co/king-george-farmers-market Sunday, June 14 & 21, July 12 & 19 August 9 & 16 Music By the River Belle Isle State Park, Lancaster, VA (804) 462-5030 or BelleIsle@dcr.virginia.gov
Saturday, June 6, 2015 Clean the Bay Day Westmoreland State Park www.cbf.org/clean or contact at ctbd@cbf.org Friday, June 12 – Sunday, June 14 Potomac River Festival www.colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com/ potomac-river-festival.html
Sunday, May 24, 2015 Get Somer’s Started Food & Spirit Tasting Event Reedville Fishermen’s Museum www.rfmuseum.org Saturday, May 30, 2015 Virginia Symphony Under the Stars Gloucester, VA, (804) 6950700, www.cookfoundation.info
continued on page 15
Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21 5th Annual High Tides Blues Festival Colonial Beach, VA, www.hightidez.com
0RUDWWLFR :DWHUIURQW 0XVHXP 0RUDWWLFR LV ³D SODFH KHDYHQ DQG HDUWK QHYHU DJUHHG EHWWHU WR IUDPH PDQœV KDELWDWLRQ ´ &DSWDLQ -RKQ 6PLWK
3UHVHUYLQJ WKH FXOWXUDO KLVWRU\ RI D 5DSSDKDQQRFN ÀVKLQJ YLOODJH DQG LWV JHQHUDO VWRUH
May 2015 Saturday, May 16, 2015 Town Trolley Tasting Tour Colonial Beach, VA, (804) 2146880 www.colonialbeachfoundation.org Saturday, May 23, 2015 St. Stephen’s Strawberry Festival Heathsville, VA St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church ststephensheathsville.org. 7th Virginia Regiment of the Continental Army Encampment Historic Court Circle 6509 Main Street, Gloucester, VA (804) 693-0014, www.visitgloucesterva.org
Saturday, June 20 Art & Wine at the Westmoreland County Museum & The Inn at Montross Montross, VA (804) 493-8440 westmorelandcountymuseum.org Rock & Roll Oldies Ingleside Vineyard, (804) 224-8687 Oak Grove, VA www.inglesidevineyards.com
2SHQ 0D\ WKURXJK 2FWREHU 6DWXUGD\V QRRQ SP 6XQGD\V SP 0RUDWWLFR 5RDG 0RUDWWLFR 9$ ZZZ PRUDWWLFRZDWHUIURQWPXVHXP RUJ PRUDWWLFRZDWHUIURQWPXVHXP#\DKRR FRP
• Quality Plants • Ornamental Concrete • Garden Shop
8904 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Rt. 1 Fredericksburg, VA 22407 (4 Miles South of Four Mile Fork)
www.pinehollownursuries.com • Closed Sundays
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
www.journalpress.com
Page 11
Northern Neck Her Barnesfield Barnesfield Park Park
Dahlgren Dahlgren Heritage Heritage Museum Museum
301 301
Caledon Caledon State State Park Park
Owens Owens
DAHLGREN DAHLGREN
218 218
Oak Oak Crest Crest Winery Winery
O DD O..
205 205
COLONIAL COLONIAL BEACH BEACH
Edgehill Edgehill
33
James James Monroe Monroe Birthplace Birthplace 205 205
George George Washington Washington Birthplace Birthplace National National Monument Monument 33
Primary Primary Road Road
204 204
Ingleside Ingleside Vineyards Vineyards
Voorhees Voorhees Nature Nature Preserve Preserve
Secondary Secondary RoadRoad- Unpaved Unpaved
609 609
2
214 214
638 638
Secondary Secondary RoadRoad- Paved Paved 625 625
M MA ARY RYLLA AND ND VIR VIRGIN GINIIA A
Westmoreland Westmoreland Stratford Stratford State Hall State Park Park Hall
1
642 642
Currioman Currioman Landing Landing
622 622
622 622
33
Leedstown Leedstown
Potomac Potomac Heritage Heritage National National Scenic Scenic Trail Trail Route Route
MONTROSS MONTROSS
Chandlers Chandlers Millpond Millpond Public Public Fishing Fishing Lake Lake
202 202
min ii N Noomin
638 638
Local Local Loops Loops (and (and Spurs) Spurs)
Naylor’s Naylor’s Beach Beach
Ferry Ferry Food Food service service
4
General's General's Ridge Ridge Vineyard Vineyard
600 600
203 203
Acorn Acorn
203 203
360 360
NNOO
Gardys Gardys Millpond Millpond Public Public Fishing Fishing Lake Lake
WARSAW WARSAW RAPPAHANNOCK RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER RIVER VALLEY VALLEY NATIONAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE WILDLIFE REFUGE REFUGE
RRLL
Vault Vault Field Field L Vineyard O RREE L T Vineyard WESTTM RR T WES M O
621 621
634 634
607 607
Kinsale Kinsale
614 614
Belle Belle Mount Mount Vineyards Vineyards
636 636
44 Miles Miles
749 749
612 612
Menokin Menokin
44 Kilometers Kilometers
Boat Boat launch launch
The The Hague Hague Winery Winery 600 600
CCOO. . DD
00 00
3
740 740 W WE ESST RRI 33 CICH TMM HMM RRE EL OO NND LAANN DC COO. . 690 690
OO
North North
RAPPAHANNOCK RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER RIVER VALLEY VALLEY NATIONAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE WILDLIFE REFUGE REFUGE 640 640
M M VVI IRR
606 606
33
Potomac Potomac Heritage Heritage National National Scenic Scenic Trail Trail Route Route (planned) (planned)
Dahlgren Dahlgren Railroad Railroad Heritage Heritage Trail Trail (accessible (accessible by by permit) permit)
Cole’s Cole’s Point Point
AANN DD C COO. HHUU . MMB BEE
301 301
KINGGEO GEORRGE KING GE CCO. O. WESTMOR MORELAN WEST ELANDD CO. CO.
630 630
RRiviveer r
King King George George
I MM ININ IRGG VVIR
301 301
CC ESS N RLLE AN HAAR LLA CCH AARRYY AIA
206 206
Haynesville Haynesville
360 360
60 60
33
11 Leedstown Leedstown loop loop 22 Stratford Stratford Hall/Currioman Hall/Currioman Landing Landing loop loop Farnham Farnham
33 Montross/ Montross/ Naylors Naylors Beach/ Beach/ Warsaw Warsaw Loop Loop 44 Kinsale/ Kinsale/ Sandy Sandy Point Point loop loop 55 Heathsville Heathsville Loop Loop 66 Reedville/ Reedville/ Vir-Mar Vir-Mar Beach/ Beach/ Smith’s Smith’s Point Point Loop Loop 77 Lancaster/ Lancaster/ Morattico/ Morattico/ Belle Belle Isle Isle State State Park Park Loop Loop
33
RR
88 Kilmarnock/ Kilmarnock/ Irvington/ Irvington/ White White Stone/ Stone/ Windmill Windmill Point Point Loop Loop
LLAA 354 354
Morattico Morattico Waterfront Waterfront Museum Museum
* map courtesy of National Park Service Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
Belle Belle Isle Isle State State Park Park
683 683
RR A APP PP
R VEER RRIIV
for a day, or a stay!
622 622
Morattico Morattico
K OCCK NNO ANN HHA AA
Getaway...
C
ritage Trail Bicycling Route Network CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLACES The Northern Neck Heritage Trail Bicycling Route network is a segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a developing network of trails between the broad, gently flowing Potomac River as it empties into the Chesapeake Bay and the Allegheny Highlands in western Pennsylvania. The “braided” Trail network offers opportunities for hiking, bicycling, paddling, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. Other segments of the network include the Mount Vernon Trail and various Potomac Heritage Trail routes in Northern Virginia; the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath; a bicycling route in Southern Maryland; and the Great Allegheny Passage. PLACES OF INTEREST REEDVILLE-COLONIAL BEACH ROUTE Reedville and Reedville Fishermen’s Museum Walk this fisherman’s village and admire the stately sea captains’ homes. Learn about the Chesapeake Bay “deadrise” fishing boats and sail on an historic skipjack. Enjoy the museum galleries. www.rfmuseum.org
M MA ARRY YL IRRGG LAANND IINN IIAA D
Sandy Sandy Point Point
OO
PP
604 604
mico occoomico YYeeo err RRiivve
TT OO
M M
D CO. LLAANND CO.
AA CC
RR II VV
Lewisetta Lewisetta
EE R R
Rice’s Hotel / Hughlett’s Tavern Restored 18th century tavern shows how people lived and traveled in the 18th and 19th century. Now operated as a store and restaurant. www.rhhtfoundation.org
Coan Coan Wharf Wharf Landing Landing
360 360
M MAARY RL VVIR YLAANND IRGGIN D INIIA A
629 629 629 629
0 00
634 634
5
Heathsville Heathsville RRICICHHM M OONNDDCCOO. . NNOORRTTHHU MBBEERRLLAANNDDCCOO. . UM
Vir-Mar Beach A small sandy beach on the Potomac offering strolling, relaxing, and birding opportunities. On clear days, the Smith Island Lighthouse can be seen, as well as the shores of Maryland. www.dgif.virginia. gov/vbwt/siteasp?trail=1&loop=CNN&site=CNN10
Vir-Mar Vir-Mar Beach Beach
Rice’s Hotel/ 360 360 601 601 Rice’s Hotel/ Hughlett’s Hughlett’s Tavern Tavern
604 604
643 643
637 637
644 644
604 604
604 604
360 360
604 604
646 646
Bush Bush Mill Mill Stream Stream State State Natural Natural Area Area Preserve Preserve
600 600
Burgess Burgess 200 200 642 642
615 615
7 354 354
201 201 600 600
Lively Lively Lancaster Lancaster
D NND RLL MBBEER UUM R NNOORRTTHH ASSTTEER NNCCA LLAA
Chilton Chilton Woods Woods State State Forest Forest
Wicomico Wicomico Church Church 679 679
AA
Hickory Hickory Hollow HollowCCOO.. State State Natural Natural Area Area Preserve Preserve Mary Mary Ball Ball Washington Washington Museum 33 Museum
604 604
Mollusk Mollusk
360 360
CCO O..
Reedville Reedville
644 644
Reedville Reedville Fishermen’s Fishermen’s Museum Museum
Jacey Jacey Winery Winery
Dameron Dameron Marsh Marsh State State Natural Natural Area Area Preserve Preserve
200 200
605 605 669 669
Good Good Luck Luck Cellars Cellars
KILMARNOCK KILMARNOCK
Merry Merry Point Point Ferry Ferry
Hughlett Hughlett Point Point Natural Natural Area Area Preserve Preserve
607 607 669 669
608 608
(free) (free)
CCoorrrrootto omm aann RRiviveerr
646 646
Athena Athena Vineyards Vineyards and and Winery Winery
610 610
201 201
617 617
Smith Smith Point Point
Sunnybank Sunnybank Ferry Ferry (free) (free)
G Grreeaatt W Wiiccoo
r veer RRivi icicoo mm
602 602 600 600
644 644
802 802
201 201
RRIC HMOND CO. IC HMOND CO. AANNCAS CASTTEERR CCO O..
6
Northern Northern Neck Neck Farm Farm Museum Museum
649 649
Historic Historic Christ Christ Church Church
33
Stratford Hall (1738) Birthplace of Robert E. Lee and home to two Lee signers of the Declaration of Independence. Visit the Great House, the Mill, and the rare Miocene cliffs formation, the last found in only three other places in the world. www.stratfordhall.org Westmoreland State Park Located on the Potomac, the park includes hiking trails, a variety of campsites (some with water and electricity), fully equipped cabins, water craft rentals and, seasonally, a pool, gift shop and snack bar. www.virginiastateparks.gov George Washington Birthplace National Monument A site managed by the National Park Service, the complex includes a visitors center with a film, a memorial house, a kitchen house, a farm with a colonial herb and flower garden, and hiking trails. www.nps.gov/gewa
200 200
222 222
Dog Dog and and Oyster Oyster VIneyard VIneyard
Steamboat Steamboat Era Era Museum Museum
647 647
R
IRVINGTON IRVINGTON 642 642 33
WHITE WHITE STONE STONE
695 695
8
C CH H EE SS A A PP EE A AK K EE B BA AY Y
Windmill Windmill Point Point
James Monroe Birthplace Markers identify the birthplace of James Monroe, 5th President of the United States. There is also a small museum with Monroe artifacts. www.monroefoundation.org Colonial Beach Historic town on the Potomac River. Widest point of the Potomac River – 7 miles wide. www.colonialbeachva.net
Built by John Bernard Lightfoot on the foundations of a 1757 structure, this house was damaged by shelling from Union gunboats during the Civil War. In 1865, John Wilkes Booth, fleeing after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, crossed the Rappahannock and landed here. Invited in, he declined and pressed on to the Brockenbrough-Peyton House. In 1896 the house was bought by Sallie Tompkins, the “Nurse of the Confederacy” and only female commissioned officer during the Civil War, who lived here until 1905.
Dorothy Roy was the only woman in the American colonies to have a franchise for a tobacco warehouse in her name. These chimneys are all that remains of her house, and nothing at all remains of the warehouse that once stood immediately behind it. The warehouse was originally chartered by John Buckner in 1673 and passed to John Roy, who passed it to his wife upon his death. The town of Port Royal grew around the Roy tobacco warehouse.
Historic Port Royal — Where History is Preserved Bonnie Cannon Port Royal, settled in 1652, was first inhabited by the Algonquian tribe of Native Americans. Located in Caroline County on the Rappahannock River, the town was charted in 1744 around Roy’s Tobacco Warehouse and soon became an important center of commerce and trade. The Civil War touched Port Royal directly in May 1863, when elements of the 24th Michigan and 14th Brooklyn Regiments attacked the town. In April 1865, John Wilkes Booth -- infamous for the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln -- sought refuge at the Peyton House on King Street. Visit the Port Royal Museum of American History and Gift Shop, located at 506 Main Street. It’s open every Saturday, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For special tours and hours by appointment, call (804)7425406 or (804)742-5654. The Hall of American History consists of a timeline including: Skinner Native American Collection, Colonial Port Royal, Sidney King Art Gallery, and Civil War Diorama. The Toleware Room consists of: One of the country’s largest collections of tinware painted by Early American folk artists. The White House China Collection Room Consists of: Dinnerware of American Presidents from George Washington to Dwight Eisenhower, with oil portraits of the five First Ladies. Be sure to visit Historic Port Royal for the yearly 4th of July celebration. Take time to “Explore Historic Port Royal, Virginia,” where Historic Heritage is Preserved. Page 14
www.journalpress.com
Historic PORT ROYAL, VIRGINIA Celebrates 16th Annual
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
FREE ADMISSION www.historicportroyal.net
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Events in the Northern Neck from page 11
July, 2015 Saturday, July 4, 2015 Independence Day Historic Port Royal, www.historicportroyal.com Gloucester Point Beach 4th of July Gloucester Point Beach (804) 693-2355 www.visitgloucesterva.org Colonial Beach 4th of July Celebration www.colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com Saturday, July 18, 2015 Native American Heritage Day George Washington Birthplace National Monument www.nps.gov/gewa
September, 2015 Saturday, Sep. 12 – Sunday, Sep. 13 Colonial Beach Boardwalk Arts & Crafts Fair www.colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com/ boardwalk-arts-and-crafts-festival.html Thursday, Sep. 17 – Sunday, Sep. 20 Bluegrass by the Bay Festival Gloucester, VA (540) 894-8444 www.sites.google.com/site/bluegrassonthebaytt Saturday, Sep. 19 – Sunday, Sep. 20 Stratford Hall Wine & Oyster Festival www.stratfordhall.org
Photo courtesy Jim Lynch
Saturday, July 19, 2015 Historic Christ Church “Raise the Roof” Craft Brew Fest Weems, VA, (804) 438-6855 www.christchurch1735.org Thursday, July 23 – Saturday, August 1 Kilmarnock Fireman’s Carnival www.kvfd-fire.org
August, 2015 Saturday, August 1, 2015 Revolutionary War Encampment George Washington Birthplace National Monument, www.nps.gov/gewa
3rd Annual Yard Sale & Customer Appreciation • Saturday, May 30th, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday - Saturday, 9:00 - 6:00, Sunday 12 -5 • 746 Germana Hwy. (Rt. 3), Culpeper
Saturday, August 8, 2015 Irvington Crab Festival (804) 438-6888 Irvington Museum or details on Facebook Saturday, August 15 & Sunday, August 16 36th Annual Rod Run To The Beach Hot Rods, Customs, Street Machines, Classic Colonial Beach, VA www.rodruntothebeach.org Saturday, August 29, 2015 Jazz in the Courtyard Ingleside Vineyard Oak Grove, VA, www.inglesidevineyard, Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
harborview227@gmail.com
www.journalpress.com
Page 15
Kinsale Museum gives visitors a special Northern Neck welcome Richard Leggitt There are many museums throughout Virginia, and the Kinsale Museum does an outstanding job of making visitors feel welcome and telling the story of its community. The museum is operated by the Kinsale Foundation in the historic port town near the Potomac River. The Kinsale Museum tells the story of its community in a personal way that brings stories back to life for residents and visitors. On display are artwork, photographs, scrapbooks and other artifacts and memorabilia that recall the history of the town, which was established in 1706. Additionally, there are many personal mementos from Kinsale’s past residents, including arrowheads, quilts, pipes,
990 Colonial Avenue Colonial Beach, VA (804) 224-EXIT (3948)
Page 16
Photo by Lynn Norris
Kinsale Museum is “dressed for spring.” and tools “Each person’s story is like a golden treasure,” said Lynn Nor-
ris, the museum’s director. “It is amazing how people who come to the museum have stories that are special and that apply to what we are doing here.” The Kinsale Foundation was formed in 1977 to focus on the historic community and preserve its stories. Today, more than 500 member families are united in the effort to protect and remember the stories of the riverfront town’s heritage. At the museum, which opened in 1993, there is a broad range of exhibits reflecting the Westmoreland County community’s past, including stories of the area’s canning, forestry, farming and seafood industries, as well as the steamboats that once made port in Kinsale to deliver and pick up goods. There are artifacts from the Native Americans who once populated the Northern Neck, as well as the families and businesses that made up the port town during its heyday. Visitors also can learn of Kinsale’s past, including tales of the Floating
www.journalpress.com
Theater that was detailed by Edna Ferber in her book, “Showboat,” and the British landing during the War of 1812. The f Foundation, with the leadership of retired Navy Capt. O.J. Hickox, attained a coveted historic district designation for the town in 2005. “He managed to unite people and was a key to making the effort successful,” Norris said. “It was a lot of work.” In the spring of 2013, the foundation extensively refurbished the old Kinsale Ice Cream Parlor as an annex with a gallery for additional exhibit space for artifacts, art and photographs that recount Kinsale’s history. The annex also serves as a library for historians and scholars researching the town’s past. The museum is in a building that was donated to the foundation by the widow of one of its founding members, a historic property that over the years had served as a tavern and a butcher shop, among other businesses.
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Photo by Lynn Norris Les Jackson of Action Renovations is currently building a ramp to make the Kinsale Museum’s annex handicapped accessible. In addition to its historical exhibits and activities, the museum plays an important part in the daily lives of current residents. The museum brings the community and county together for an Easter egg hunt, Garden Week, an annual Strawberry Festival and July 4 festivities, as well as raising and donating money to a number of local and Northern Neck charities. “Nobody who lives in Kinsale
gets by without helping,” Norris said. “We get lots of support from the community. People feel they are part of a very loving, vibrant special group.” That special feeling of history, community and closeness is what the Kinsale Museum is all about. “It is the warmth of our welcome,” Norris said. “People come back and back and for that we are honored.”
Photo by Bruce Miller Little Mason Maddox Conrad enjoys every opportunity to don his Kinsale comforter, which features historic sites around Town and is available in the Museum Gift Shop. If you want to go What: The Kinsale Museum Where: 447 Kinsale Road, Kinsale When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Special tours can be arranged at other times by calling Lynn Norris, the museum director, at (804) 450-7651.
Live the Legacy of the Lees 483 Great House Road, Stratford, Virginia 22558 804-493-8038 StratfordHall.org A world away, close to home.
Job No: STH15 7219 Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015 Title: Agency:
Live the Legacy of the Lees Ethicom
Pub: Journal Press Getaway Magazine www.journalpress.com Target: Contact:
General Tourism Hilleary Thoren
Page 17
Groups can charter a boat and catch a great variety of fish from the bay, all on the same trip.
Photo courtesy Mark Fike
Charter your next fishing trip for rod-bending fun Mark Fike The Northern Neck is awash with great fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. At times, the options of where to go to wet a line or what to fish for can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. Charter captains spend their entire workday on the water building up knowledge and staying connected with the ebb and flow of the seasons, fish migrations and what fish are feeding on
day to day. These variables change, not only seasonally, but sometimes hourly. Anglers that are not on the water daily can become disconnected from the cycle of life on the water and getting reconnected can take some time. When time is not plentiful or an angler wants to cut the learning curve down, chartering a boat captain is a good option. Capt. Danny Crabbe, owner of Crabbe’s Charter Fishing in Heathsville, is one of the charter boat businesses on the Neck that
Fish the Potomac River, Virginia and Maryland portions of the Bay. Enjoy a day of fishing on the Chesapeake Bay aboard the Midnight Sun
Clean & comfortable, we do the work, while you do the fishing. License, bait & gear are provided. We also clean and filet your catch.
(804) 580-0245 • www.fishmidnightsun.com Reedville, Virginia Page 18
www.journalpress.com
has put customers on fish for more than 30 years and has seen a lot change in his industry. “In the old days, I would mark my favorite fishing spots by lining up on landmarks or buoys or measuring depths,” he said. “Today, with my latest electronics, it’s easier to keep up with where the fish are. We are out there all the time, and we pretty much know where they are.” Anglers fishing on a charter boat also get to pick the mind of the captain, as they learn about fishing. In fact, Capt. Ryan Rogers of Midnight Sun Charters, also in Heathsville, readily shares information about how he rigs his baits, why he uses certain tackle and more useful information for the novice fisherman. “One of the best parts about my job is showing customers techniques on my boat that will help them catch fish on their own boat,” Rogers said. “I go where the fish are so I’ve been moving the boat down to Virginia Beach for a month to six weeks for the last ten or twelve years to offer my customers a wide range of fisheries. I love fishing offshore because it’s a totally different experience, you see whales, birds, and really big fish out there that you don’t get to see close to shore.” Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
In addition to learning about fishing, those that charter a local captain also will gain knowledge about the ecosystem and the history of the area. Capt. David Rowe, with Bay Quest Charters out of Lottsburg, said “visitors and anglers to the area charter a fishing boat to catch fish, but they also can learn a lot of information that is not often found in books by talking to captain about the region.” For instance, Rowe enjoys explaining to his anglers how the oysters are harvested as his charter passes by oyster workboats, or he might explain how the crabbing industry works as anglers watch a crabber checking pots. An alternative to a charter boat is a head boat. Head boats can be fished by simply showing up at the allotted time and paying the fee and stepping aboard. Capt. Frank Markham operates the Big Dipper for Potomac River Charters from the Colonial Beach Pier each day from June through Labor Day. Typically, head boats bottom fish for croaker, spot, and perch. This type of fishing is in its simplest form and new anglers easily can pick up the skill.
Photo courtesy Mark Fike Fishing offshore on the Midnight Sun can offer anglers a variety of big game fish like this Amberjack.
Charter Boat Companies in the area
Crabbe’s Charter Fishing Contact: Capt. Danny Crabbe Address: 51 Railway Drive, Heathsville, VA 22473 Phone: (804) 761-0908 Hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily April through December Website: www.CrabbesCharterFishing. com Cost: $600 for six people and $50 per each additional person. Fish cleaning, tackle, bait and licenses provided
Midnight Sun Charters Contact: Capt. Ryan Rogers Address: 82 Woodhaven Drive, Heathsville, VA. 22473 Phone: 804-453-5812 or 804-580-0245 Hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily and afternoon trips available from April through December. Website: fishmidnightsun.com Costs: Bay rate is $650 for six people and $60 per each additional person Offshore is $1,850 for six people and $100 per each additional person Inshore ocean is $900 for six people and Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
$60 per each additional person; half-day inshore is $600 for six people and $50 per each additional person. Fish cleaning, tackle, bait and licenses provided for all excursions Bay Quest Charters Contact: Capt. David Rowe Address: 153 Rowe Lane, Lottsburg, VA 22511 Phone: 804-529-6725 or 804-366-5050 Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily Website: www.bayquestfishing.com Cost: $600 per party of six, $50 per each additional person. Fishing cleaning, tackle, bait and licenses provided Potomac River Charters Contact: Capt. Frank Markham Address: 114 Lawrence Lane, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 Phone: 802-224-1400 Hours: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily June through Labor Day; fall charters available Website: www.potomacrivercharters.com Cost: $35 per person plus rod and reel rental fees. License and bait provided
www.journalpress.com
NAYLOR’S BEACH CAMPGROUND
Swimming/Boating Picnics • Family Reunions Birthday Parties Church Outings Camping 1HDUE\ $WWUDFWLRQV *HRUJH :DVKLQJWRQ¶V %LUWKSODFH /RFDO :LQHULHV 5LYHU %RDW &UXLVHV 5HVWDXUDQWV Z ORFDO VHDIRRG 2VSUH\ (DJOH VLJKWLQJV
Open 7 Days A Week 804-333-3951 4011 NAYLORS BEACH ROAD WARSAW, VA 22572 Page 19
Menokin offers window into the past George Whitehurst Standing on the banks of Cat Point Creek near Warsaw are the remains of Menokin, which offer a silent testimony to a way of life long vanished. Menokin was the plantation home of Francis Lightfoot Lee - American patriot, statesman and signer of the Declaration of Independence. Unlike other Revolutionary War-era plantations such as Mount Vernon, Menokin, at first glance, seems a historic shadow. Built in 1769 by Lee to serve as a suitable home for his new bride, Rebecca Tayloe, Menokin was a classical “Georgianstyle� mansion with outer walls composed exclusively of locally quarried stone. Sarah Dillard Pope, executive director of the Menokin Foundation, notes that made the house quite unusual for its time, as stone and brick were usually reserved for chimneys and other adorning features. Like the home he constructed, Francis Lightfoot Lee was an unusual man. He was a gentleman farmer who took of up the American patriot cause in the years leading up to the Revolution. But unlike his brother, Richard Henry Lee, Francis did not speak publicly in thundering tones about the need for American independence, preferring instead to work behind the scenes to advance the cause of liberty. “[Frank] worked behind the scenes. He didn’t do a great deal of public writing,� Pope said. “Richard... was basically the mouthpiece of the family - a great orator - but he could also ruffle a lot of feathers. “[Frank] would smooth the Page 20
Photo courtesy of the Menokin Foundation Menokin, the home of Francis Lightfoot Lee, a signer of the Declaration of Independence has endured the ravages of time, and now awaits work by skilled artisans to preserve it for future generations. waters behind his brother to make things happen. They were a true dynamic team.� Francis and Richard Henry were the only brothers to sign the Declaration of Independence. Many of Francis Lee’s contributions to American independence were lost, as he and his wife died childless in 1797 and thus had no immediate family to preserve his writings. The death of the Lees set in motion the long, slow decline of Menokin, which eventually passed out of the hands of extended family members. By 1935, it was mostly vacant. By the mid-1960s, a gradual collapse of the mansion was well underway and would not be halted until the Menokin Foundation obtained the property in 1995. The foundation has built a shelter over the portions of the
Family Friendly Entertainment Center t #JSUIEBZ 0ĂŻDF 1BSUJFT t *OEPPS #MBDL -JHIU )PMF .JOJ (PMG $PVSTF t -BOF .JOJ #PXMJOH -BOFT t (VO BOE 4QPSUT 4JNVMBUPS t 4UJOHSBZ 4OBDL[
New to the King George Area! ,JOHT )JHIXBZ t ,JOH (FPSHF 7" t NJOJHBNF[!EFFQTFBMJOL[ DPN Located in the Village Center off Rt. 3
www.journalpress.com
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
house still standing and has embarked on an ambitious preservation project that will offer future generations a unique view of an outstanding example of 18th century architecture. Work has begun to stabilize the standing portions of the house. Plans call for replacement of the collapsed section with a plexiglass structure that will duplicate the shape of the original building. As a result, visitors will be able not only to imagine the house in its original splendor but to see its inner architectural workings. “We want this to be a bit of a living building,” Pope said. “It allows people to look at history, not just frozen in time... but almost like a prism, a kaleidoscope. There are a number of different stories we can tell by preserving it in this way.”
Want to go? What: Francis Lightfoot Lee’s “Menokin” Where: 4037 Menokin Rd., Warsaw, VA Hours: May 1-Sept. 30 Mon.-Fri., 10a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. - Visitors center closed but grounds open for exploration Admission: There is no charge to enter the visitors center and explore the grounds. Guided tours within the mansion ruins are available for $10 per person. Anyone wishing to enter the ruins must make an appointment by calling (804) 333-1776. For more information, go to www.menokin.org.
James Monroe Birthplace Park and Museum
The historic James Monroe Birthplace Park and Museum is open during the summer on weekends from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Photo courtesy of the Menokin Foundation An artist’s rendering shows the “glass house” concept for preserving Menokin.
Westmoreland County Museum
Bring lunch and enjoy the picnic area on the grounds or launch your canoe from our dock on Monroe Creek which flows into Monroe Bay and the Potomac River.
Visitors Welcome Tourist Information Desk Research Library Exhibit Rooms Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Saturday
~Sponsored by~
Murphy Seed Service, Inc.
The Foundation’s purpose is for Education and Preservation honoring the life and legacy of James Monroe, our fifth President and founding father. He was the only other US President to have served in active duty in the Revolutionary War other than George Washington and helped save this nation during the War of 1812 when he served as both Secretary of State and Secretary of War. Visit the new Museum with its expanded exhibits honoring President James Monroe. Directions: The Birthplace is located on Route 205 in Westmoreland County, 1 mile east of Colonial Beach at 4850 James Monroe Highway at the James Monroe Birthplace Historical marker. www.monroefoundation.org • virginiapresidents@gmail.com Find the James Monroe Memorial Foundation on Facebook 804-214-9145
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
www.journalpress.com
* Stop by Murphy Seed Service for a special event to benefit the Westmoreland County Museum. May 9th • 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. • Food • Wine • Music
Page 21
Northern Neck offers variety of hiking trails for enthusiasts and novices For those hikers who enjoy day hikes along level trails and in quiet forests with streams and bogs, the Northern Neck is a paradise! Much different than the more strenuous mountain treks and the long distance trails in other parts of the state, these trails are perfect for spending a few relaxing hours. Take a picnic lunch and something to sit on. And if you happen to enjoy a few hills, Jim Lynch well, there are those too; just not as many, not as long, and not as steep. These trails are located in parks and other public lands. There are also a few private trails in the area. Be sure to check the websites for more details, rules of use, any fees, and possible closures. Many of these parks have “friends” groups that provide opportunities to offer your time and talent to “give back” to the parks. All of the URLs for the websites can be found on the Friends of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail site: www.friendsdrht.org. Some of the trail sites are also described in the excellent “60 Hikes within 60 Miles” by Nathan Lott. Have fun out there and maybe I’ll see you on the trail!
King George County Caledon State Park - 2,579 acres Caledon has recently been elevated to full State Park status. This means that some new trails have been opened and more will be in the future. The five “nature trails” are still there, which provide everything from pleasant strolls through old-growth forests, to stressing hills. The longest trail, four-mile Cedar Ridge, is a nice challenge for the fitness buff. The new trails are the old park roads, most of which have been closed until recently and which lead down to the Potomac River. These new trails are open to hikers and, for the most part, bicyclists. PrimiPage 22
tive campsites have recently been installed along the river, providing a backpacking opportunity, as well as canoe/kayak camping. Note that there is no vehicular access to the river. Parking fee and campsite fee. Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail (DRHT) - 238 acres In 1942, the U.S. Navy built a railroad to serve the Naval Proving Ground at Dahlgren, and support the war effort. The part of the line stretching through the eastern part of King George County has been abandoned and is now in private hands, pending adoption into the State Park system. A friends’ group is clearing and improving the rail bed. The trail is used by walkers and bicyclists, and during the winter, cross-country skiers. It is also a popular spot for runners, being one of the premier all-dirt courses in the country. Half-marathon and 50K races are held every year. One of the striking features of the trail is the tree canopy. Most railroad trails have been logged out to the width of the right-of-way, while the DRHT is cleared only to the edge of the rail bed. There are trailheads with limited parking at several road crossings. The trail is 15.5 miles long. A permit (no charge) is required. See the Friends’ website for details. And by the way, trail aficionados fondly pronounce the name “dirt.” Lands End Wildlife Management Area – 412 acres Land’s End WMA is a mixture of open farmland, woodland and wetlands along the Rappahannock River. Land’s End WMA has been managed primarily as a refuge for migrating waterfowl. The only trail on the WMA that is open to the public begins at the parking area by the kiosk, and heads toward the river along a rustic farm road. It then turns and continues a short way down river and along Nanzatico Bay. Nice views on a pleasant stroll. The trail ends at neighboring property so you have to turn around and retrace your steps. Permit required.
Westmoreland County George Washington Birthplace National Monument - 550 acres Under the protection and care of the Nawww.journalpress.com
tional Park Service since 1932, the grounds are a nice walking area with several paths around the Memorial House in the Historic Area. Park at the Visitor Center (nice movie, exhibits, gift shop and restrooms). Go out the back door of the Visitor Center, and enjoy the view of Popes Creek from the wooden deck (there are rocking chairs there for those not wishing to hike). Take the Popes Creek Trail toward the Historic Area and Cedar Grove. If you have a little more time, take the new (2012) wooden footbridge that goes across an arm of the creek to the Picnic Area (restrooms here are closed during winter months) and a separate 0.9-mile nature trail. Come back across a pair of boardwalks to the barnyard area, and back to the Visitor Center parking lot on the Upper Trail. Level grade with a few short rises. Dirt, crushed oyster shells or wood-chip-based. There is one small wet, boggy stretch on the separate Nature Trail, but for only a few yards. About two miles total, not including the separate nature trail. Tours of the Memorial House and other informative presentations by Park Rangers and Guides are available. Open 9-5 daily (except for New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). Pets are not allowed in the Historic Area. No admission fee. www.nps.gov/gewa Westmoreland State Park - 1,900 acres There are seven trails, totaling six miles in length. Some steep hills, including a long and steep staircase coming up from the beach on the Potomac River. Dirt paths, winding through mature forests. Wellmarked. A great place to spend the day hiking with a lunch. Cabins and campsites are available. Parking fee and camping fee. Stratford Hall - 1,900 acres The birthplace of Robert E. Lee and home of the historic Lee family, there are several trails on the Stratford Hall plantation property that have the potential to be excellent hiking opportunities. Unfortunately, some of the trails have suffered damage from recent hurricanes. The staff is working to improve and, in some cases, relocate the trails. But until that work is completed, use extra caution and be sure to follow the new signs. As an added benefit, Stratford Hall is Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Photo courtesy of Jim Lynch The many hiking trails nestled throughout the Northern Neck provide a wide variety of beautiful scenery for hikers of all ages and skill levels. the only hiking venue in the Northern Neck that is associated with a restaurant (and a fine one at that!). Either before or after your walk, enjoy lunch at the Plantation Dining Room. Visitor Center and Gift Shop. Tours of the Great House are also available. Entrance fee. Voorhees Nature Preserve – 739 acres The preserve was donated to the Nature Conservancy by the Voorhees family, who own and operate the adjacent Westmoreland Berry Farm. Visitors will enjoy a nice loop trail of about four miles through a nice stand of forest and freshwater tidal marsh along the Rappahannock River. Makes for a nice day hike, especially when coupled with a visit to the berry farm. Be sure to try their fabulous pies. The preserve is only open for visitors when the farm is open, late spring to fall, and it’s not open after dark. Park and check in at the farm’s Country Store.
Richmond County Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge - 8,707 acres Wilna Pond Tract - Several nice trails, mostly level with a gravel mix for the tread. The Eagle Scout Trail (EST) and the Green Heron Trail (GHT) are very short, a couple hundred yards max, and flat, although the EST does have a short set of steps leading up to the start of the trail at a kiosk. The EST goes out to a nice overlook above the pond. The GHT goes behind the lodge, just a nice short loop. The Wilna Creek Trail is longer, taking about 15 minutes to hike out and back. Has an accessible blind overlooking the pond for wildlife viewing and photography. Ends in Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
a loop, even though the trail map says that it continues out to the road (to the lodge/ education center).
Lancaster County Belle Isle State Park - 739 acres One of the newer parks in the family of State Parks, there are seven trails, ranging in length from 0.4 to 1.5 miles long, totaling 5.3 miles. Several of the trails are multi-use, allowing hiking, biking and horseback riding. So brush up on your multi-use rules before starting out. Two of the trails have campsites, thus affording a backpacking opportunity. The trails are level and comprised of dirt and gravel. Hickory Hollow Natural Area Preserve - 254 acres Just off of Route 3. Parking and a system of trails, totaling 3.5 miles. Dirt treads, mostly flat, but a couple of short hills. Blazing is erratic, sometimes lots of blazes, other times not a one, so keep your eyes open. Get the nice map at the kiosk in the parking area. Unique trail signs are used throughout at junctions, with little triangular pointers - Nice! Stick to the “white” blazed trail for first-timers; take a couple of side-trails to overlooks. Acquired with help from the Audubon Society. Chilton Woods State Forest – 397 acres There are 22 state forests in Virginia, but this is the only one in the Northern Neck. The property was given to the state by the Chilton family to be managed for timber and wildlife. There are three short trails on the forest, the longest is about two miles long, and the other two a mile or less. The www.journalpress.com
trails may not be well maintained, according to the Department of Forestry, but on a recent hike on one of the trails (Dog House Trail) it was fine. Note that there are no signs but the trails are well blazed. There are two parking areas.
Northumberland County Bush Mill Stream Natural Area Preserve - 103 acres On Route 642 outside of Heathsville, with 1.4 miles of trails, with moderate grade down to Deep Landing Stream. An overlook platform for wildlife observation on a spur loop (Heron Loop) is off the main trail. Very nice little place for a short stroll. Also acquired with help from the Audubon Society. Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve - 316 acres On the Chesapeake Bay, there is a short gravel path (about 100 yards) and a boardwalk to a raised deck overlooking a grassy marsh and the Bay. The deck has a nice bench to relax and have lunch. The preserve also has a canoe launching beach, but no other water access. Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve - 204 acres Also on the Chesapeake Bay, and not far from Dameron Marsh. Easier to reach, since the entrance kiosk is right on the main road (Ball Neck Rd.). A short path and a boardwalk lead to an old farming road, now a trail, that runs parallel to the beach. There are three beach access points, along with two observation decks. The Beach Shore Trail is 0.7 miles long, making a nice round trip. Very level and an easy walk. Page 23
Wilkerson’s
Unique Unique Antiques Antiques Mall Mall
Each comes with 2 sides or 1 trip to salad bar Served 11:30 - 3:00 Mon. - Fri. OPEN DAILY AT 11:30
Like Us On Family owned and operated since 1946
9600 James Madison Pkwy., Rt. 301, King George, VA
p- y- o Pumpkins Already Picked
Apples p- y- o
Berries
For t he latest PYO, event s and seasonal news visit our website or cat ch us on social media: And, join our mailing list !
804-224-9171 800-997- BERRY
Email us at : info@west morelandber r y f arm.com
w w w.w estmorelandberryfarm.com
PROMO REF: WBFGET0415
Page 24
Farm Hours: M on. – Fri. 10 am – 5 pm • Sat. & Sun. 10 am – 6 pm
www.journalpress.com
Getaway • Spring/Summer, 2015
Where the community comes to bank. From personal checking and savings accounts to a complete range of business banking solutions provided with exceptional care, we are the region’s community bank. Personal and business banking • Online/Mobile banking • Loans and lines of credit • Exceptional service King George 16384 Consumer Row King George, VA 22485 540-663-2050 Fredericksburg 1340 Central Park Blvd, Suite 106 Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-412-6475
540-663-2050 • cbtc.com AD_KG Parks and Rec_7_5x5_9.2014.indd 1
MEMBER FDIC
9/3/2014 11:25:31 AM
RICHMOND COUNTY
Acres of waterfront are only the beginning of Richmond County’s treasures.
www.co.richmond.va.us 804-333-3415
The Future of the County’s Environment Depends on You.
Extraordinary
FROM BUDGET FRIENDLY TO THE
Potomac
Kitchen & Bath
Designs
Visit Our New Showroom or Call today for a Free Consultation Kitchen, Bath, & Home Improvements...We Do It All, and We Do It Right!!
540-775-4211 • www.Potomackitchenandbathdesigns.com 11399 Ridge Rd., King George