Northern Neck Getaway - Fall-Winter 2015

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FALL/WINTER 2015

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Hidden Hidden Treasures Treasures of of the the Northern Northern Neck Neck and and Beyond!

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Virginia’s Northern Neck is a special place this time of year.

The leaves are dropping from the trees.

There’s crispness in the air. The final harvest is complete.

Welcome to the Northern Neck as fall gives way to winter.

This region’s rich history, cultural and natural beauty shine no matter the season.

Are you looking for a relaxing weekend getaway? Then come to the Northern Neck.

Do you seek an extended rest from the cares of the world? Then come to the Northern Neck.

Whether you’re interested in finding works by 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.

Perhaps you’re of a mind for a holiday celebration. If that’s the case, the Northern Neck is the place for you.

The region has a number of wonderful historic sites that are planning a wide array of holiday festivities.

Check out Belle Grove Plantation in King George, birthplace of James Madison, America’s fourth president and principle author of the U.S. Constitution. The plantation will be a blaze of light and garlands in the run-up to the Christmas holidays.

If you’re looking for a spot to spend a romantic evening, don’t forget that Belle Grove is a fully operational bed and breakfast.

In Westmoreland County, Stratford Hall – birthplace of Gen. Robert E. Lee – will hold a series of feasts celebrating the holidays. Make your reservations now and sample the sort of meal served on a plantation in the mid-19th century, all while getting a fascinating history lesson about how the food got to the table.

The George Washington Birthplace will also offer a serving of holiday cheer from the banks overlooking the Potomac River.

And don’t forget that the Northern Neck has become a producer of some of the finest wines to be found in Virginia.

Discover the charm of hamlets such as King George, Montross, Essex and Reedville that dot the countryside as you move toward the coast.

And just because the weather’s getting Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

photo by Cynthia L. Ailey The Westmoreland County Museum brings holiday cheer with its window displays every year. cooler doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a hike away will inspire you to take time to explore along one of the money wonderful trails that the places and events highlighted. wind through the Northern Neck. Peruse If you’re visiting, stay awhile. If you’re this magazine and be sure to note Jim Lynch’s looking for a new place to call home, look no articles highlighting the area’s trails and offer- further. ing helpful tips on how to keep warm while The Northern Neck truly is an amazing hiking in the fall and winter. community. We hope you enjoy the time you We hope the fall/winter edition of Get- 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

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Jessica Herrink Robert Berczuk George Whitehurst Drue Murray and Cynthia L. Ailey Hilleary Thoren and Dennis Verdak

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Caledon’s Art & Wine Festival is a ‘must’ A crisp autumn afternoon.

An elegant glass of wine.

An evocative piece of art.

If that sounds like the perfect day, then the Caledon Art and Wine Festival is for you. This year’s event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., Nov. 7.

The annual event has been drawing people from the Northern Neck to Caledon State Park in King George since 2006. It typically attracts about 1,000 people, said Annette Bareford, who works for Virginia State Parks’ Public Relations and Marketing Department.

There will be a dozen or so wineries from across the state represented at the event, as well as that many area artists showing off their wares.. A commemorative wine glass for tasting is included with the $10 admission price (21 and older - every-

file photo by Phyllis Cook If you’re a wine enthusiast, Caledon’s Art & Wine festival is a ‘must’ this fall. one must have ID to taste). The festival is free for non-tasting guests, but a $5 pervehicle parking fee applies to all.

The park tries to make this a family-friendly event, Bareford said, b also having food for sale, hay wagon rides, programs and cornhole for the kids.

Caledon State Park is a member of the Northern Neck Artisan Trail, Bareford said, and the park tries to support the arts in various ways.

“The Caledon Art and Wine Festival is a great way to showcase area artisans,” Bareford said. “(We hope people get) a new appreciation of beautiful Caledon State Park, wonderful Virginia

WINE TASTING AND ARTISAN GIFT SHOP OPEN: WED-SUN 10-5 (Jan-Feb open 11-4 Sat & Sun)

wines and ciders, amazing artists and generous sponsors.”

These types of events also allow the state parks to support local communities, she said.

“Virginia State Parks has always strived to support quality events and programs that have a positive economic impact on the community surrounding the parks,” Bareford said. “In addition, this event is presented by the Friends of Caledon State Park so all proceeds generated by the Art and Wine Festival go to help environmental programming and education at the park, as well as programs the park does in the community.”

8215 OAK CREST DRIVE • KING GEORGE, VA 22485

540-663-2813

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Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Make all the stops on the Chesapeake Wine 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 Fri. Wine Down, bring your supper and enjoy a bottle of our wine on our porch!

Hours: Sun. & Mon., noon5p.m.; Thurs & Sat, 11a.m.6 p.m.; Fri., 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 Jacey Vineyards

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

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.; Sun., 11a.m.-3p.m.

619 Train Lane Wicomico Church, VA 22579 (804) 580-4053 www.jaceyvineyards.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

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

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

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Fall and winter are a sportsman’s delight in the Northern Neck Mark Fike With each passing season the opportunities to enjoy the waters and woods along the Northern Neck and the surrounding area simply transition to the next great pursuit just when anglers and hunters begin yearn for new challenges.

Hunting Over the past fifty years, hunting in Virginia, and particularly the Northern Neck, has improved for deer and turkey hunting. The past decade has seen some cyclical ups and downs for the deer herd, but the trend has included some record deer harvests. While fifty years ago it may have been newsworthy to see a deer browsing in a yard, some landowners and farmers in our area now view whitetail deer as a problem.

This is where hunters can capitalize on the situation and offer their services to help thin out the deer herd. The Northern Neck enjoys a very liberal season with many antlerless “doe” days with bucks legal to take all season long. VDGIF offers hunters a big game license which includes tags for three “either sex” deer and three “antlerless only” deer east of the Blue Ridge. It is not unusual for hunters in our area to be able to fill all of those tags. Bonus tags for antlerless only deer are available as well. The deer thrive everywhere in our area but farmlands and swampy areas offer the best locations to hunt.

Hunters wanting to pursue turkey will find the Northern Neck turkey population in great shape. Westmoreland and King George farm fields are often seen with turkey grazing through them. Good nesting success and fairly mild winters the past few years have helped turkey populations to continue to be healthy. Hunters on the Northern Neck also enjoy a staggered season starting October 24 and running through Nov. 6. Hunters that enjoy stalking deer with a muzzleloader (that season continued on next page Page 4

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Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

from previous page starts October 31) often find ample opportunities to put up a wild Thanksgiving bird when afield. If a turkey is not to be had in the first season, then Thanksgiving Day is open statewide and quite a few birds are taken on that day! The last portion of the fall season runs from Nov. 30 through Dec. 12th when there tends to be a bit of a lull in deer season.

Small game opportunities abound along the Northern Neck. Squirrels are virtually unpressured and are starting to also become irksome to gardeners and landowners wanting to harvest fruits, berries and nuts from their property. Squirrels provide a great opportunity for new hunters and young hunters to learn skills to safely take game without having to sit still for long periods of time. A walk through the hardwoods, a perch under a good nut tree at any time from September through February is sure to create a reason to make some Brunswick stew.

Readers who have never gone on a rabbit hunt are encouraged to seek out local hunters with good hounds. A pack of short legged beagles will spin up the music across the fields and through the brambles in our area causing rabbits to spurt out, offering shots to ready hunters. The comradery is just as good as the fine table fare that rabbit makes. Rabbit populations are cyclical but where one property might not have many rabbits, another farm or chunk of open land will have a good population. Rabbit hunters mostly hunt to hear their dogs work. Getting a few rabbits for the pot is a bonus. This is a great type of opportunity for new hunters to enjoy.

Predators, particularly coyotes, have made serious inroads into the Northern Neck. This is more noticeable in the more open fields and farms that they prefer.

Twenty years ago coyotes were pretty much a western animal. Now they are here to stay.

Most hunters try to take them on sight, hoping to save some turkey poults, quail, rabbits or even fawns. Calling coyotes with mouth calls or even electronic calls on the Northern Neck has a growing following. While some landowners or farmers might not be willing to allow people to deer hunt their property, they are often more willing to let hunters come in to try to thin out the coyote population.

Private land is the best way to approach Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

hunting as the landowner or lease holder controls what happens on the property.

However, some public land opportunities do exist in our area. Caledon State Park holds a muzzleloader hunt each season and they often host a youth hunt. See DCR’s website for more details www.dcr.virginia. gov/state-parks/documents/huntdates. pdf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also has opportunities at the Rappahannock River Valley Wildlife Refuge. www.fws.gov/ refuge/Rappahannock_River_Valley/visit/visitor_activities/2015_hunt.html Pressure at the Wildlife Refuge tends to be low. Scouting on open scouting dates is encouraged. There are mature deer on the refuge.

Fishing Fishing the Northern Neck is often thought of as a spring and summer adventure. However, some of the nicest rockfish are caught during “Roctober” and Nov. in the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers.

Anglers venture out using big bucktails, sassy shads, umbrella rigs and parachute rigs to troll for a fish worthy of baking whole in the oven or even in the ground. These tasty fish are likely the most sought after species for their size, fighting ability and table fare.

Anglers will find these fish chasing menhaden or other baitfish over shoals, ledges and structure in the lower rivers and in the bay. Often during the early fall, they can be continued on next page

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from previous page caught chasing bait in very shallow water of tidal creeks and tributaries. In situations where they are busting bait, throwing topwater lures is the most explosive way to earn a strike. Hang on to your rod once you hook one. They can really peel off some line!

Tidal sloughs and millponds such as Gardy’s Millpond in Westmoreland are home to chain pickerel. These fish can be caught year around but they bite particularly well in the cooler months. They prefer flashy spinners and minnow imitating lures.

Of course dangling a minnow near them will also earn a bite. These fast, ferocious little fighters are worthy adversaries and are common in our area. Take along a pair of pliers to remove hooks and keep them cold if you plan on baking them for supper. They are bony, so keep that in mind when eating them.

While freshwater trout are not native to our waters, nearby Frederickburg, Virginia offers anglers a chance to catch these mountain coldwater fish at Old Cossey

Pond. The pond is stocked several times during the fall and winter. The fish that are stocked are catchable (and fine for the grill or oven) with some fish exceeding three or four pounds.

Bright spinners, trout bait, corn, salmon eggs, red wigglers and cheese are all baits that will work. Anglers should use light test line, make longer casts and change up their retrieve to be able to catch their daily limit of four fish per day. A light action spinning or spin cast set up will work perfectly.

However, fly anglers will find weekdays to be good times to try their skills when less anglers are present. Nov. 1 –April 30 there is a trout license required in addition to the regular state fishing license.

Overcast, cool days and low light periods are also prime times to catch trout. Keep your catch on ice to preserve the flavor of the fish.

This winter, get afield in the woods or on the waters to harvest or catch your next meal. Not only will you have fun doing so but the food you take home is home grown and nutritious as well as tasty.

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Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

On The Trail

Fall and winter hiking in the Northern Neck Jim Lynch My favorite season for hiking is Autumn.

Crisp air, moderate (usually)temperatures, dry weather (usually), and the leaves can be gorgeous.

When winter comes, it is still fun to get out and hike. It might be cold, but the old adage applies: no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes.

Ok, got that. So where should you go and how should you prepare? As far as where to go, any of the venues that we’ve discussed in earlier columns and articles would be fine.

But I would stick to forest trails in the fall.

Better chance for some nice scenery.

My favorite would probably be Westmoreland State Park. Plenty of trails, some easy some more challenging. Nice tree cover too.

Good opportunity to take a picnic lunch and make a day of it.

As far as making a day of it, the trails at Stratford Hall are great but take care, some are still suffering from weather damage. Ask about which trails are recommended. And the big plus is the nice restaurant for a before or after-hike lunch.

Another nice spot for hikes is the Hickory Hollow Natural Area Preserve in Lancaster County. There are a lot of trails, totaling three-and-a-half miles. Nice mature hardwoods, trails along streams. A good place to spend a couple of hours.

For a different hiking experience, try the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail. Being an old railroad bed, the trail is very level over its 15-plus mile length. A trail friends group is improving the trail by spreading stone dust over the railroad rock ballast. This is a volunteer effort, so it takes time but this type of surface is very good for bicycling. If you’re a cyclist, give this trail a try.

Speaking of cycling, some of the trails at Caledon have recently been opened to bicycles. These are the old farm roads and make a nice trip down to the Potomac River. Just make sure not to get off on the narrow hiking trails; these aren’t suitable for cycling.

The hiking trails are back in the mature growth forest and make for a very nice hike Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

photo courtesy Jim Lynch Caledon is a great place for a winter hike. over the several loops. There are different cold, but we’re cheating ourselves out of a trail lengths and topography, so if you want great experience in a different time of year. to channel your inner athlete, this is for you.

The air is cold, for sure, but when you’re Try the Benchmark and Cedar Ridge walking, you’d be surprised how quickly trails for a good, heart-pumping workout! you warm up. The woods are as quiet as Before we talk about clothing and prepa- they ever are, there is often a stillness that is ration, let’s touch upon winter hiking. Most continued on next page of us shy away from getting out when it’s

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The Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail is calling out for fall hikers. from previous page mesmerizing. And don’t pass up a chance to get out in the snow.

The leaves are off the trees, so you have a good view of the sky along normally treecanopied trails. Cross country skiing is a perfect activity for some of the trails, especially ones that are level or have gentle grades. Skiers have “found” the DRHT and it’s probably the best skiing trail in the region. Haven’t seen any showshoers out there yet, but it’s probably only a matter of time!

The trick about venturing out in the snow is usually parking. Make sure the parking areas are such that you’re comfortable with getting your car in and out. And I must mention one of the little pleasures of life: leave a thermos of hot chocolate or coffee in your car for a little “reward” at the end of your hike (or ski). Doesn’t get much better than that!

A final note about hiking in the snow.

Sometimes the snow will obscure the trail and you can’t really see where it goes. Keep an eye on the blazes (signs or paint marks on trees). All of the trails in our region are pretty well blazed, so you shouldn’t have any trouble. Even fallen leaves can cover a trail too, so this is the time of year to keep your Page 8

mind on the trail and don’t get too caught up with the beauty of your surroundings.

So what to do about clothes? First be aware of the weather and be prepared for it to change. Second, think layers! As you warm up, take off layers, when you stop and cool down, put them back on. I will usually take three layers, and my outer layer will normally be water repellent or water proof, depending on the forecast. For very cold weather (which for me is in the low teens or colder), make that third layer pretty substantial.

It’s handy to carry a day pack to stow your clothes as they go on and off. For my legs, I can get by with a single pair of hiking pants. When it’s very cold, I’ll take a pair of long underwear, but I don’t usually like to wear those unless it’s very cold, 10 degrees or below, because they can be too warm.

Don’t forget gloves. Nothing worse than cold hands. Also a good hat suitable for the weather.

As far as rain goes, I’ve got a rain outfit, pants and top, but the weather has to be pretty foul for me to pull those out. Remember that the purpose of keeping dry is to keep warm. Getting wet doesn’t generally hurt you.

I’ll often backpack in the fall with just shorts and a t-shirt, even if it’s raining. Carwww.journalpress.com

photo courtesy Jim Lynch rying a pack warms you up so nicely that the rain feels darn good.

I remember coming across a family who was covered in their ponchos. They looked at me like I was crazy until they realized that I was more comfortable than they were in their sauna-suits. When you’re in the rain, make sure your hat is water-proof or repellent and has a brim to keep rain out of your eyes.

Finally, a few notes about Leave No Trace and trail upkeep. Leave No Trace (or LNT) is very simple: if you carry it in, carry it out!!

There are more details at the excellent LNT web site (www.lnt.org). Trails don’t maintain themselves. If you can, you might join a trail maintaining organization and pitch in. I realize that not everyone has the time to do this, so don’t worry: the next best thing to do is to let the local managers know if you see a trail that needs some attention.

If you’re not sure who that is, send me an email (jplynch@crosslink.net) with your observations and I’ll get it to the right person. Trail managers really do appreciate those extra sets of eyes out there!

Enjoy the seasons and get out there for some good hikes. Let me know how it goes.

And I’ll probably see you on the trail!

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Hiking Trails to visit in the Northern Neck Jim Lynch The Northern Neck does not have the large acreage and long hiking trails that other parts of the state are blessed with.

However, there are many smaller venues that provide wonderful opportunities for day hikes.

Here is a short summary of those those trails, which are in parks, and other public resources, as well as a few private trails. Be sure to check the web sites for more details, rules of use, any fees, and possible closures.

Many of these trails have “friends” groups that provide opportunities to offer your time and talent to “give back” to the parks.

All of the URLs for the web sites can be found on the Friends of the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail site: www.friendsdrht. org. Some of the trail sites are described in the excellent “60 Hikes within 60 Miles” by Nathan Lott. (The 60 miles is the distance from Richmond, which covers most of the Northern Neck.

Chilton Woods State Forest: Chilton Woods was given to the comonwealth of Virginia by William and Catherine Chilton in 2000. It is a tract of mostly lob-lolly pine, nearly 400 acres in size. The property was nurtured and maintained by the Chiltons since they obtained it in 1954. The forest is in Lancaster County off Route 3 on Route 602.

There are two trailhead parking areas, one under a power line leading to three of the trails on the forest and the other about a mile down Route 602, leading to two trails. During a quick trip to the forest recently I hiked the Dog House Trail, which forms a loop almost a mile long. The trail slows gently down to a little stream and under the pines. The trail follows the stream for about a half-mile before turning back for a easy climb back toward the parking area. The path is nicely covered with pine needles, which makes a comfortable walk.

The forest is in the Rappahannock River watershed.

Woodlands Trail, Menokin: The home of Francis Lightfoot Lee, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

The home is being restored by a foundation that manages the grounds. A pleasant, alGetaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

photo courtesy Jim Lynch Chilton Woods State Forest in Lancaster is a great place for a fall hike. beit short, trail leads from the parking area down to Cat Point Creek, a tributary of the Rappahannock River.

The trail is only a quarter-mile but there is a nice nature guide to the flora and fauna along the trail. Perfect for a family stroll with little ones. No fee, but contributions are welcomed. Richmond County.

Caledon State Park: 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, Cedar Ridge, four miles, 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 river in a couple of places.

These trails are open both to hikers and bicyclists. Primitive camp sites have recently been installed along the Potomac River, providing a backpacking opportunity as well as paddle-in camping. Note that there is no vehicular access to the river, including the campsites. Parking fee, campsite fee.

King George County, 2579 acres.

Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail(DRHT): During World War II the US Navy built a railroad to serve the Naval Proving Ground at Dahlgren. The part of continued on next page

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from previous page the line stretching through the northern 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, including spreading stone dust for a better trail surface. There are trailheads with limited parking at several road crossings. A wheel-chair accessible picnic area has been installed as an Eagle Scout project at the Bloomsbury Road trail head. The trail is 15-and-a-half miles long. A permit (no charge) is required.

This trail was recently featured in the book “Virginia Rail Trails” by Joe Tennis. See the Friends web site for trail details.

King George County, 238 acres.

Stratford Hall: There are several trails on the Stratford Hall property that have the potential to be excellent hiking opportunities. Unfortunately

due to damage from recent hurricanes, not all of them cannot be recommended for use by the general public at this time.

The staff has ambitious plans to improve, and in some cases re-locate, the trails. But until that work is completed, stick to those trails closest to the Great House: the Vault Trail and the Spring House Trail.

As an added benefit, Stratford is 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 a nice lunch. Entrance fee. Westmoreland County, approx. 1900 acres.

Westmoreland State Park: There are seven trails totaling six miles in length. Some steep hills, including a long and steep staircase coming up from the beach. Dirt, winding through mature forests. Well marked.

A great place to spend the day hiking with a lunch. Cabins and campsites are available. West-

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photo by Mike Rose Cross-country skiing on the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail is a great activity for a winter day. moreland County, 1311 acres.

Parking fee, camping fee.

Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge Wilna Pond Tract: Several nice trails, mostly level with a gravel mix for the tread. Eagle Scout Trail and Green Heron Trail 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.

EST goes out to an overlook over the pond, very nice. GHT goes behind the lodge, just a nice short loop.

Wilna Creek Trail is longer, and takes about 15 minutes to hike out and back. It has an accessible blind overlooking the pond for wildlife viewing and photography. It ends in a loop, even though the trail map says that it continues out to the road (road to the lodge/education center). Westmoreland County, 8707 acres.

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Belle Isle State Park: One of the newer parks in the state.

There are 12 trails including the newest, White Oak Swamp loop. They range in length from 0.1 to 1.9 miles for a total of 9.5 miles. Most of the trails are multi-use, allowing hiking, biking and horse-back riding.

So brush up on your multi-use rules before starting out (Hint: horses *always* have the right of way!). Two of the trails have camping sites thus affording a backpacking opportunity. The trails are level and comprised of dirt and gravel. The park rates them as “easy”.

Hickory Hollow Natural Area Preserve: Just off of Route 3. Parking and a system of trails totaling 3.5 miles. Dirt tread, mostly flat, but a couple of short hills. Blazing is erratic, sometimes lots of blazes, other times not a one, so keep your continued on next page Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

from previous page eyes open.

Get the nice map at the kiosk at the parking area. Unique trail signs are used throughout at junctions; 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. Lancaster County, 254 acres.

Bush Mill Stream Natural Area Preserve: On Route 642 outside of Heathsville. Includes 1.4 miles of trails, moderate grade down to Deep Landing Stream. An overlook platform for wildlife observation on a spur loop (Heron Loop) off the main trail. Very nice little place for a short stroll. Acquired with help from the Audubon Society.

Northumberland County, 103 acres.

Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve: On the Chesapeake Bay, there is a short gravel path (about 100 yards) and 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. Northumberland County, 316 acres.

Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve: 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 boardwalk leads 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. A very level and easy walk. Northumberland County, 204 acres.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument:

photo courtesy Jim Lynch The Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail is a beautiful sight in the winter.

Nice walking area with several paths around the Memorial House. Park at Visitors Center (nice exhibits and bookstore).

Go out the back door, and take the Popes Creek Trail toward the historic area and Cedar Grove. If you have a little more time, take the new (2012) footbridge that goes across an arm of the creek to the picnic area and a 0.9 mile nature trail.

Come back across a pair of boardwalks to the barnyard area (say hello to Lewis and Clark, the resident oxen) and back to the parking area on the Upper Trail. Level grade with a few short rises. Dirt, oyster shell or wood chip base; one small wet, boggy stretch on the nature trail but just a few yards. About two miles in all.

Voorhees Nature Preserve: Park in the parking lot of the popular Westmoreland Berry Farm, and register in the gift shop. They have a large map of the preserve on the wall, and may have a copy to give you if you didn’t print one out at home.

The trail is a road walk for one-third mile to the entrance to the preserve, then another one-third mile along a farm road. The trail leaves the farm road at an unmarked opening in edge of the forest, so keep your eyes open. A land mark is an old picnic table and the start of the

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

diamond-shaped yellow trail markers.

The trail is typical forest floor, dirt with some leaf and duff cover. Once you get into the trees, there is a steep downhill to Owl Hollow and a walkway crossing the stream, and a corresponding steep climb back up.

Otherwise, the trails are nice and level. (Note: Remember that there is the same down and up on the return trip!). The two trails, Carriage Road and Hollow Tree, make a nice loop of

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about four miles (Yes, there is a hollow tree!). The two overlooks provide a good view of the meanders of the Rappahannock River.

The preserve is only open when the berry farm is open, spring through fall, 10 a.m.5p.m., although check the hours and days in October and Nov., as the season starts to wind down. (Hint: The Fruit of the Forest Pie in the gift shop is fabulous!).

arco-roofing.com Page 11

Northern Neck Heri Barnesfield Barnesfield Park Park

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eritage 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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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There are so many things to do in the Northern Neck!

November 2015 Rappahannock Arts League presents “Consider the Oyster” Book Sale - Friends of RCC Date(s)/Time: Fri., Nov. 6, 10am – Sat, Nov. 7, 2pm Where: Main St, Warsaw, VA 22572, Montross: Return to the Village for First Fri.s Artwalk Date(s)/Time: Fri, Nov. 6, 5pm – 9pm Where: Montross, VA, Description: Self guided tour through town 5-9pm. Visit galleries and shops, mingle with friends, enjoy dinner, snacks and music in the village!

Quilt Show & Sale in Colonial Beach Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov 7, 2015 Where: Colonial Beach (map) Description: Colonial Beach Historical Society Quilt Show & Sale. For info, contact May Mills & Mary Warring 804-224-3379 Rockfish Tournament on the Potomac Date(s)/Time: Sat, Nov. 7, 7am – Mon, Nov. 9, 4pm Where: Potomac River between the 301 Bridge to the mouth of the Potomac (map) Description: Annual Chamber of Commerce Rockfish Tournament. Captain’s Meeting and Dinner at 6 p.m. on Nov. 6 at Wilkerson’s.

Registration form can be found at http://rockfishtournament.org/entry.html Irvington Farmers’ Market Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 7 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Where: Irvington Commons, King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA 22480 www.irvingtonva.org Caledon Art And Wine Festival Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 7 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)

Where: Caledon State Park, 11617 Caledon Road, King George, VA 22485 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/caledon. shtml Page 14

Annual Distinctive Bazaar Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 7 (8 a.m.-3 p.m.)& Sat., Dec. 5(8 a.m.-3 p.m.)

Where: 26 King Carter Drive and Route 200, Irvington, VA 22480 irvingtonmethodistchurch.org Fall Oyster Crawl On The Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail Date(s)/Time: Sun., Nov. 8, (12 p.m.-4 p.m.)

Where: 2570 Newland Road, Warsaw, VA 22572 Phone: (804) 333-4700 www.chesapeakebaywinetrail.com Celebrating Hometown HeroesVeterans Day Date(s)/Time: Mon., Nov. 9, - Sun., Nov. 15 Where:1 North Main Street, Kilmarnock, VA 22482 Call us: (804) 435-1552 For more information: susancockrell@ kilmarnockva.com For more details www.kilmarnockva.com/celebrating-hometown-heroes Marjorie’s Flea Market Date(s)/Time: Tue., Nov 10, Where: 15683 Historyland Highway, Warsaw, VA 22572 (map) Description: from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., shop Marjorie’s Flea Market in Warsaw, next to the Richmond County YMCA. For more info, call 804.761.2640 Drawing Animals at Rappahannock Art League Date(s)/Time: Nov 11 – 12, 2015 Where: 19 N Main St, Kilmarnock, VA 22482 Description: This two day course will be presented by Steph Brown. This workshop is designed to boost your confidence in drawing animals: Recognizing and understanding the basic shapes of the animal, connecting the shapes to sketch the animal, learning how to shade and blend to create a likeness and adding finishing details such as fur and claws to your masterpieces! For more details and to register, call (804) 436-9309. www.journalpress.com

“Jewelry Show” at Rappahannock Art League Date(s)/Time: Nov 13 – 14 Where: 19 N Main St, Kilmarnock, VA 22482 Description: “Jewelry Show” – the perfect opportunity to view and purchase amazing and unique wearable art. The theme this year is “Fancy, Fresh and Funky” and features the original work of Talulah Design Studio, Designs Et Cetera, and Works of Heart. Come by the Studio Gallery at 19 N. Main Street from 1 pm – 7 pm on Fri., Nov. 13th and from 10 am – 4 pm on Sat., Nov. 14. The public is welcome and admission is free.

Honoring Our Veterans Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 14 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Where: George Washington Birthplace National Monument Phone: (804) 224-1732 x.225 Website: http://www.nps.gov/gewa/index. htm 2nd Fri. Artwalk Date(s)/Time: Fri., Nov. 13 (6 p.m.-8 p.m.)

Fri., Dec. 11 (6 p.m.-8 p.m.)

Where: 100 Taylor Street, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 Phone: (804) 214-6880 ArtWalk Colonial Beach www.colonial-beachvirginia-attractions.com/art-walk.html Reedville Fishermen’s Museum Oyster Roast Where: 504 Main Street, Reedville, VA 22539 Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 14 (2 p.m.-5 p.m.)

Phone: (804) 453-6529 www.rfmuseum.org Dahlgren Heritage Museum German Christmas Market Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov 14, 2015, (3 – 7 p.m.)

Santa will arrive for photos from 4-6 p.m.

Where: 3540 James Madison Pkwy, King George, VA 22485 No parking at Museum, free parking available at continued on next page Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

from previous page Barnesfield Park.

Website: dahlgrenmuseum.org/ The Life and Impact of Clara Barton at Stratford Hall Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov 14 Where: Stratford Hall, 483 Great House Rd, Stratford, VA 22558 Website: stratfordhall.org Mbw Museum Oyster Roast: Shuckin’ & Jivin’ On The Lancaster Green Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 14, 2015 (1 p.m.-4 p.m.)

Where: 8346 Mary Ball Rd, Lancaster, VA 22503 Phone: (804) 462-7280 Website: www.mbwm.org Virginia Oyster Country - Oyster Academy Date(s)/Time: Fri., Nov. 6 - Sat., Nov. 7, (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Fri., Nov. 13 - Sat., Nov. 14 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Fri., Nov. 20 - Sat., Nov. 21 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Fri., Nov. 27 - Sat., Nov. 28 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)

Where: 480 King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA 22480 Phone: (804) 438-4489 Website: www.tidesinn.com Virginia Oyster Country: www.vaoystercountry.com From The Rappahannock, For The Rappahannock: Oysters For Life Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 14 (1 p.m.-4 p.m.)

Where: 838 Long Point Lane, Topping, VA 23169 Phone: (540) 373-3448 Email: Woodie.Walker@riverfriends.org Downton Abbey Casino Night At Belle Grove Plantation Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 14 (7 p.m.-11 p.m.)

Where: 9221 Belle Grove Drive, King George, VA 22485 Phone: (540) 621-7340 Email: information@bellegroveplantation.com Website: www.bellegroveplantation.com Art & Wine at the Westmoreland County Museum & The Inn At Montross Where: 43 Court Square, Montross, VA 22520 Date(s)/Time: Wed., Nov. 18, 2015 (5 p.m.-7 p.m.)

Museum Phone: (804) 493-8440 Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Inn at Montross Phone: (804) 493-8624 Westmoreland Museum: westmorelandcountymuseum.org Inn at Montross: theinnatmontross.com Taste by the Bay: Wine, Food, Arts & Ale Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 21 (11 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Where: 480 King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA 22480 Phone: (804) 435-6092 Email: info@lancasterva.com Website: www.tastebythebay.com King George Studio Tour Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 21 - Sun., Nov. 22, (10 a.m.-5 p.m.)

Where: Driving tour, King George, VA 22485 Phone: (540) 644-1139 or (540) 663-2728 Website: www.kgstudiotour.com & www.dirtybirdpottery.com Virginia Symphony Orchestra In Concert Date(s)/Time: Sat., Nov. 21 (3 p.m.-5 p.m.)

Where: 191 School Street, Kilmarnock, VA 22482 Phone: (804) 438-5555 Website: rappahannockfoundation.org Thanksgiving Dinner At Stratford Hall Date(s)/Time: Thur., Nov. 26 (12 p.m.-4 p.m.)

Where: 483 Great House Road, Stratford, VA 22558 Phone: (804) 493-1966 Website: www.stratfordhall.org Irvington Turkey Trot-2 Mile & 5 Mile Run Date(s)/Time: Thur., Nov. 26 (9 a.m.-12 p.m.)

Where: 53 King Carter Drive, Irvington, VA

22480 Phone: (804) 438-6391 Email: mmm262@verizon.net

December 2015 Holiday Open House at Ingleside Vineyards Date(s)/Time: Sat., Dec. 5 - Sun., Dec. 6 (12 p.m. -5 p.m.) & Sat., Dec. 12 - Sun., Dec. 13 (12 p.m.-5 p.m.)

Where:5872 Leedstown Rd., Oak Grove, VA 22443 Phone: (804) 224-8687 Website: www.inglesidevineyards.com “Oysters And Oldies” Christmas Oyster Roast Where: 6108 Northumberland Highway, Heathsville, VA 22473 Date(s)/Time: Sat., Dec. 5 (12 p.m.-3:30 p.m.)

Phone: (804) 724-4238 Email: events@ststephensheathsville.org For Ticket Info: wkirby@wildblue.net Website: oysterroast.ststephensheathsville.org Holiday Open Houses on the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail Date(s)/Time: Sat., Dec. 5, (12 p.m.-5 p.m.)

Where: 570 Newland Road, Warsaw, VA 22572 Phone: (804) 333-4700 Website: www.chesapeakebaywinetrail.com

continued on next page

Host your training, conference, or community events at a beautiful university campus adjacent to NSWCDD and convenient to the entire Northern Neck: • Graduate and undergraduate curricula from UMW and the Commonwealth Graduate Engineering Program (UVA, VPI&SU, ODU, GMU, VCU) • Classrooms, meeting rooms, offices, executive conference room and auditorium rentals - short or long-term • Wi-Fi, VTC, Web Ex, LCD projection-equipped throughout; dual-monitor computer labs • See us on the web at dahlgren.umw.edu or on Facebook at umwdahlgren University of Mary Washington - Dahlgren Center for Education and Research 4224 University Drive, King George, VA 22485 (540) 663-4034

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Page 15

from previous page Christmas In Kinsale Date(s)/Time: Sat, Dec. 5, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: Kinsale Museum, 449 Kinsale Road, Kinsale, VA 22488 Description: This event is geared to help raise money for needy neighbors during the holiday season. Starting at noon: Christmas Bazaar, live music, great food, silent auction in Museum, cookies galore for sale in the old Ice Cream Parlor. Free horsedrawn carriages rides 1:30-3:30. Santa at the Grey Barn 2:304. Parade at 4. Memorial Tree lighting at 4:30.

Bring gifts for less-fortunate area seniors. List Kinsale-linked Christmas angels (who have died since last Dec.) with Flossie Barber at 804-472-4704.

Event details: Lynn Norris, 804-450-7651, museumdirector@gmail.com.

Kilmarnock Lighted Christmas Parade Where: Main Street, Kilmarnock, VA 22482 Date(s)/Time: Fri., Dec. 11 (5 p.m.-8 p.m.)

Phone: (804) 435-6092 Website: www.lancasterva.com Experience an Old-Fashioned Christmas in Reedville Date(s)/Time: Dec 12 – 13

Where: Reedville, VA 22539 Description: “Christmas on Cockrell’s Creek” Sat., Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sun., Dec. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tickets go on sale on Mon., Nov. 16, by phone or in person at the museum. Call 804-4536529. $25 in advance; $30 on tour weekend. $10 at door for an individual house or the fishing vessel.

Proceeds benefit the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum for more information visit rfmuseum.org A Stratford Hall Christmastide Date(s)/Time: Sat., Dec 12 Where: Stratford Hall, 483 Great House Rd, Stratford, VA 22558, Website: stratfordhall.org

Website: www.nps.gov/gewa/index.htm

January 2016 Wine & Design at Dockside Date(s)/Time: Wed., Jan 6, 2016 Where 1787 Castlewood Dr, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 Description: At Dockside Restaurant on the 1st Wed. of every month. Eat, Drink, be Merry and go home with your very own 16X20 painting. Cost of the class covers all supplies, just bring yourself and a tip for the artist/instructor!

RSVP: www.wineanddesign.com/calendars/ fredericksburg

Reveillon: New Year’s Eve Dinner and Celebration at Stratford Hall Date(s)/Time: Thur., Dec 31 Where: Stratford Hall, 483 Great House Rd, Stratford, VA 22558 Website: stratfordhall.org A Washington Family Christmas Where: George Washington Birthplace National Monument Date(s)/Time: Sat., Dec. 19 (10 a.m.- 7 p.m.)

Phone: (804) 224-1732 x.269

Westmoreland County Museum 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.

By Shirley Rush

(703) 303-1743

* Rivah Relics: We are now selling antique, vintage and collectibles in the original building of Murphy’s. We take in consignments and do custom painting of furniture.

Questions, please call Rebecca at (8040 472-3712

VisionsByShirl@aol.com 116 Hawthorn Street • Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Page 16

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Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Check out the Northern Neck Artisan Trail When Andy Pitts, a Heathsville-based artisan whose medium is hardwood that he fashions into furnishings and decorative arts, was invited by the Artisans Center of Virginia to consider building an artisan trail in the Northern Neck, he began a movement that has since encompassed five counties, six downtowns, and multiple villages and communities.

From the beginning, Andy said, “an Artisan Trail on the Northern Neck is a golden opportunity for those of us who make craft and art, those of us who are artisans on the farm or the water, those of us who may not make the goods but whose activities bring craft to the public, and for those who support the visitors who will be coming to see and buy our work. Other locales in the state are already underway with their own trails, and the way I see it, the train is leaving the station and we need to get onboard, too.”

The Northern Neck Chesapeake Bay Region Partnership and King George County provided seed funding for the trail, which will be implemented by the Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV). ACV has assisted Virginia communities in developing twenty-seven artisan trails across the state and hosts the Northern Neck Artisan Trail’s web presence, to promote trail experiences, events, and sites.

As of November, the Northern Neck Artisan Trail is still taking enrollments and has over 80 Trail Sites on the 5-County Northern Neck Artisans Trail.

The Northern Neck Artisan Trail will be publicized statewide in a brochure placed at the Virginia Welcome Centers and distributed to Trail Sites.

Barney Harris, owner of ZeGetaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Photo courtesy Northern Neck Artisan Trail Artist Andy Pitts works in his workshop kiah Glass in Farnham in Richmond County, said, “creativity begets creativity. ’Renaissance‘ would be an apt description of the burgeoning artisanal activities in the Northern Neck. The very process of banding together to form an Artisans Trail in the Northern Neck is creating a mo-

mentum and excitement for artisans and small businesses in the area that will prove to be hugely beneficial for everyone concerned.” Barney, who conducts 2-day stained glass workshops held at her waterfront bed & breakfast, added that the Northern Neck has “so many unique

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and interesting experiences to offer, from growing oysters to producing wine to creating original art to raising crops and animals organically. Historical sites, family-owned restaurants, antiques shops, boating of all types – there are so many things for visitors to experience and learn about. Embrace the 21st century while honoring the traditional skills of the past!”

Farms, wineries, and those seafood operations offering a waterfront experience to the public are also invited to join the trail, as those sites particularly showcase the agricultural and marine heritage of the Northern Neck in growing fruits and vegetables, procuring wildcaught or farmed seafood, and producing wine. Outreach to interested participants in the Northern Neck Artisan Trail has been community-wide through a series of “Lunch & Learns,” held throughout the five counties, and through the Northern Neck Artisan Trail’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ Northern-Neck-Artisan-Trail254737334726989/?ref=hl.

The tag line for the Northern Neck Artisan Trail, which was developed through a naming event and survey earlier this year, is, “Where water surrounds and creativity abounds”.

To visit sites along the Northern Neck Artisan Trail, visit www.artisanscenterofvirginia. org/artisan_trail_network/detail/northern_neck.

If you are an artist, artisan, or supporting site, such as a restaurant, lodging, or cultural organization, and would like more information on enrolling as a Trail Site, details are available here: www.artisanscenterofvirginia. org/artisan_trail_network/ become_a_trail_participant Page 17

George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument celebrates our history Richard Leggitt At George Washington’s Birthplace, the national monument in Westmoreland County operated by the National Park Service, the fall and winter are part of a yearlong dedication to preserving the history and heritage of our nation’s founding father.

This year, special events are schedule for Nov. 14.

“Veterans Appreciation Day, a series of powerpoint programs on George Washington’s military career from French and Indian War to the Whiskey Rebellion,” according the Park Service spokesman Scott Hill.

On Dec. 19, according to Hill, “There will be a Colonial Christmas, a yearly holiday event in which the grounds and Memorial House are decorated in an 18th century style. Candlelight tours will be offered until 7:00 p.m. that night.”

For those traveling to visit the George Washington Birthplace Park, the visitor center and memorial historic area are open all year round from 9 a.m. to 5 p,m,, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. More information is available by calling (804) 224-1732.

Located In the heart of Virginia’s Northern Neck, the George Washington Birthplace is a tribute to America’s celebrated founding father. Washington only lived in Westmoreland County during his early years, but Park Service historians believe the ideas that Washington learned here, helped shape the man he became.

George Washington’s great grandfather, John Washington, arrived in Westmoreland County as an immigrant in 1657, and five generations of Washington’s family including his father, grandfather and great grandfather settled here and are buried at the George Washington Birthplace National Monument.

After the death of George Washington’s father, Augustine, in 1753, his estate and plantation, which would be named Wakefield, passed through succeeding generations of the Washington family.

The family burial ground and the site Page 18

on which the house where George Washington was born was donated to the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1858. Additional adjacent lands were acquired and today, the birthplace site and the memorial grounds make up a 357-acre site that the Park Service has operated since 1931, Today the park and its living memorial www.journalpress.com

are a nationally recognized historical site.

The grounds include the family cemetery, a visitor center, a gift shop, an obelisk that is similar in design to the Washington Monument and is a memorial to Washington, and a farm featuring the kinds of animals found on the property during Washington’s time.

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

UMW Dahlgren campus offers insights on region’s military history George Whitehurst Tucked behind a copse just off just off of U.S. 301 sits the Dahlgren Campus of University of Mary Washington.

It boasts a sleek, modern building that serves as classroom, temporary rented office space for local businesses and community center, complete with a large auditorium.

Dahlgren campus Director Scott Jones hopes that in addition to all of that, the campus will serve as an arts and history magnet for local residents and visitors alike.

The campus was opened largely to strengthen ties between the region and Naval Support Facility Dahlgren by offering a training and educational facility at which Dahlgren’s scientists and technicians can pursue new avenues of study without having to travel abroad.

By demonstrating its commitment to the mission of Naval Support Facility Dahlgren, the Commonwealth of Virginia is helping protect the facility should the federal government ever impose another round of Base Realignment And Closure – a periodic re-shuffling of Department of Defense military assets.

To highlight this cooperation, the UMWDahlgren campus has created a gallery filled with boards that recount the history of NSFD and its many divisions, such as Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division.

Also adoring the walls of the gallery is a special exhibit on the parts played by women in the scientific operations carried out for nearly a century at the Dahlgren base.

Visitors the gallery can check out a variety of historic photos in the exhibit that document the increasing role of women at the facility. The exhibit includes a World War II-era WAVES uniform.

“It evolved out of discussions we had,” Jones recalled. “We were discussing different artifacts the base had, looking for a practical way to draw attention to the base’s 100th anniversary approaching in 2018.”

The Dahlgren Heritage Foundation “saw the value of getting some of the artifacts Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Photos by George Whitehurst Above are some the displays you can find at the UMW Dahlgren campus. that were inside the gates outside the gates to increase recognition.”

“What better place to post the artifacts www.journalpress.com

than on the university campus in the middle of the community?” he said.

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file photos Colonial Beach offers some fun family activities during fall and winter. Like the Annual Rockfish Tournament and the Christmas Parade.

Colonial Beach still has a lot to offer during the Winter Linda Farneth Colonial Beach is famous for its boardwalk and beach along the Potomac River.

Folks from all over come in the summer to enjoy the night life and stroll the quiet streets. Colonial Beach offers an exclusive bike trail and is the first town to allow golf cart traffic along it’s paved streets.

Few people realize the joy of Colonial Beach in the Winter time. With a mild climate, snow storms are rare but when the flakes fall the beach is breathtaking.

In cold winters without much precipitation the rivers edge freezes with spectacular ice displayed for the delight of visitors.

Colonial Beach also lies along Monroe

Bay, which offers a safe haven for boats during winter storms and Nor-Easters. The town offers a boat ramp year round, and there are numerous docks to park your boat for a short stay or the winter.

From now until Christmas, there are still a lot of activities to enjoy in Colonial Beach.

There are always the Second Friday Artwalks that feature local artists showing their work at area businesses, as well as at the Fisheries Commission, located at 222 Taylor St. Every October, the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department hosts Family Fun Night with games, contests and activities for kids, centered around Halloween.

The Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad hosts its annual Halloween Golf

Christmas Open House, Saturday, November 28th, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Monday - Saturday, 9:00 - 6:00, Sunday 12 -5 • 746 Germana Hwy. (Rt. 3), Culpeper Page 20

www.journalpress.com

Cart Parade and Fall Festival. Fun, games, food and activities for the kids are provided.

Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerse cosponsors the event with Custom Cartz.

November rings in with the CBVRS Tree of lights. Lights can be purchased for a small donation and lighted in honor of a loved one or for the buyer.

Break out the fishing gear for Nov. 13-14.

Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce and Dockside Restaurant will co-sponsor the 21st Annual Rockfish Tournament.

On Nov. 21, take a break from cooking and grab spaghetti dinner at the United Methodist Church, put on by the Colonial Beach Volunteers Rescue Squad.

December rings in the Christmas spirit with two events on Dec. 5 that you won’t want to miss. While Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce kicks off Santa’s Wonderland and Winter Festival, the Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad is taking care of visitors’ holiday shopping by hosting a Holiday Vendor Show at the rescue squad, located at 225 Dennison Street.

On Dec. 12, the Colonial Beach Historical Society will host a Christmas House Tour. The tour leaves from the Museum at 128 Hawthorne St. at 5:30 pm.

Make reservations early for area restaurants to celebrate New Years Eve. Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Belle Grove to deck the halls for the holidays Richard Leggitt From Colonial times to the early 1900s, the elegant Belle Grove plantation located on the banks of the Rappahannock in King George County was the scene of many happy festivities during the holiday season.

And, although it now is luxury bed and breakfast and event venue, the holiday traditions continue.

“When dressing Belle Grove Plantation for Christmas, we like to look back at our Christmas past for inspirations,” said Michelle Darnell, who with her husband, Brett, has turned Belle Grove into one of Virginia’s most popular destinations.

“One of those times comes for the John Tayloe Thornton period between 1894 to 1906, Darnell said. “In our research we have found a Christmas newspaper article that tells how they dressed Belle Grove Plantation for Christmas as well as the event itself.

In November, 1901, we see that they used Chrysanthemums and Holly and always had a bountiful tree in the parlor.”

Belle Grove’s delightful festivities continue this year with a Christmas Tea from1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 4 and Christmas Candlelight Tours from1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 17 through 20. For more information, go to information@bellegroveplantation.com.

“Christmas time at Belle Grove Plantation is an opportunity to bring back on traditions with our Colonial style Christmas décor,” said Darnell. “Fresh cut greenery from our local friends bring the beauty of nature in for the holidays as it has many years before.”

The Darnells have been operating Belle Grove, the birthplace of President James Madison, for three years and with their caring, historical guidance have created a luxury bed and breakfast that is ranked as “the best in Virginia” by Virginia living magazine.

Visits and tours of the beautifully restored plantation are breath taking and draw loving oops and aahs, especially during the Christmas when dozens of volunteers have decked Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

the halls, the staircases and the balconies with greenery and decorations that turn a visit into a dream.

The plantation was first established on the north bank of the Rappahannock River in 1670 in what was then the riverfront community of Port Conway. Over the centuries, the plantation developed into a stately mansion that has been witness to many historical events.

Trading vessels visited the site frequently in Colonial times exchanging silk, cloth and silverware for corn, wheat and tobacco. Madison, one of our nation’s most significant founding fathers, was born here in 1751. And Union troops spent the night at Belle Grove in 1865 before crossing the river to capture assassin John Wilkes Booth a few miles away.

The 8,000-square foot plantation has 13 rooms and 11 baths. The Belle Grove property was first purchased by Captain Anthony Savage in 1670. The elegant white house was later acquired by Francis Conway and Rebecca Catlett Conway, James Madison’s grandparents.

Their daughter, Eleanor Rose Conway, returned to the plantation in December of 1750 for the birth of her child, who became the nation’s fourth President and was one one the nation’s leading statesmen.

The plantation was named Belle Grove by Rebecca Conway’s second husband, John Moore.

Over the decades, the stately mansion and its acreage passed through several families and their descendants. The plantation was temporarily used as a Union Army headquarters during the Civil War, which may explain why it was not shelled, as other Virginia riverfront mansions were, by Union gunboats that cruised the Rappahannock during the war.

After President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, Booth used the nearby Port Conway ferry in an effort to escape. Union troops pursuing Booth rested and ate at www.journalpress.com

Belle Grove before crossing the river to trap and kill Booth at the nearby Garrett family farm.

The historic plantation went through a series of owners during the next century, but in 1997 it was purchased by Haas Belle Grove, Inc. which spent $3.5 million to renovate the historic property. The Darnells leased the property in 2012 with a dream of turning it into a prestigious bed and breakfast and a wedding and event facility.

Their efforts have been successful. Visitors from throughout the nation and the world have discovered the exquisite and historic plantation bed and breakfast. The joys guests have received will only be multiplied this holiday season as the grand old mansion will once again ring with music and laughter. “It’s a living piece of history and tradition and we want to honor it,” said Darnell.

Admission $2 Children 6-18 $1 Under 6 free Northern Neck Farm Museum Luther Welch Agriculture Center 12705 Northumberland Highway PO Box 365 Heathsville, VA 22473 (804) 761-5952 Web www.thefarmmuseum.org Email: nnfarmmuseum@gmail.com Northern Neck Farm Museum

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Stratford Hall planning holiday celebrations like those of Colonial times Richard Leggitt Stratford Hall, the historic and celebrated home of the Lee family of Virginia, will celebrate the holidays again this year as its founders did in Colonial times.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, the Westmoreland County plantation will continue its nationally recognized efforts to make people aware of its story, history and traditions.

For centuries, Stratford Hall has been a place of entertainment and festivities and a welcoming beacon of hospitality. From Colonial days to the American Revolution, through the Civil War to the present day, the hospitality and traditions of the Lee family have been kept and honored.

At Thanksgiving this year, Stratford Hall will host a buffet-style dinner with a menu that includes roasted turkey and stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce, Virginia baked ham, roasted prime rib with au jus, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese and corn pudding. There will also be mixed greens salads with choice of dressing, broccoli salad, assorted dinner rolls and butter, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and red velvet cake.

The prices of the meal are: $59.95 for adults and children age 12 and up, $31.95 for children ages 6-11, and free for children age 5 and under.

Fried oysters will also be available a la carte for $14 per dozen. Seatings will be from noon to 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27. Reservations are requested and may be made by calling Lesley Brooks at (804) 493-1966.

Then on Dec. 12, join Stratford Hall to celebrate a traditional plantation Christmas.

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Celebrate the season in another century from4:30 – 8:30 p.m. and enjoy the worlds of the privileged and as well as the worlds of the enslaved through history, song, dance, and stories.

“This is the second year that Stratford Hall’s annual Christmastide explores two worlds...one the privileged and one the enslaved,” said Jon Bachman, Stratford Hall’s public events manager.

“Stratford Hall interpreters will be on hand to discuss the history of the Leesof Virginia and Stratford Hall,” said Bachman.

“Visitors will be treated to 18th century dance demonstrated by the Rappahannock Colonial History Society of Fredericksburg.”

Members of the staff will tempt visitors to the sounds and smell of open hearth cooking as they prepare a traditional holiday meal in the Colonial kitchen,” Bachman said. “Stratford Hall takes on a special mood of enchantment at Christmas. Grand and imposing, this icon of colonial architecture is must to see this holiday season.”

Arriving guests on Dec. 12 will cross a seasonally lighted bridge, then stop by the bonfire where they can make a Christmastide wish by tossing a holly sprig into fire.

Following the lit path to the Great House, www.journalpress.com

visitors can watch the stories of the enslaved at Christmas through storytelling and song.

Upstairs at the Great House, visitors can observe the courtly dances of the Colonial Heritage Society.

Outside they can watch the preparation of a sumptuous and savory Chr istmastide meal in the outside kitchen before returning to the warmth of the bonfire and light refreshments in the Visitor Center.

Also on the evening of Dec. 12, guests can enjoy a buffet-style dinner, served from 4-7 p.m., that will feature roasted prime rib au jus, fresh baked salmon, Virginia baked ham, macaroni and cheese, green beans, mashed potatoes, candied carrots, broccoli, mixed green salad with dressing, Italian Christmas fruitcake with sauce, apple pie, fresh cobbler, assorted dinner rolls and biscuits.

The cost of this special Stratford Hall Christmas dinner is $75 for adults, $40 for children 6-12, with children five and under free. That price includes a tour ticket, tax and gratuity. Fried oysters can be purchased a la carte as an appetizer or with the main course for $7.50 for a half dozen oysters. Dinner reservations can be made by contacting Lesley Brooks at (804) 4931966. More information is available at www.stratfordhall.org.

Costumes, music and dancing like those from days gone by will help bring guests not only into the spirit of the holiday season, but also into the lifestyles and traditions of the Lee family of Virginia, one of America’s foremost founding families.

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

Photo by Cynthia L. Ailey The tree lighting ceremony during the Montross Spirit Festival is sure to get anyone into the holiday spirit.

Visit the Town of Montross in Winter Linda Farneth Montross is a quaint little town of roughly 350 residents.

It offers a close family atmosphere. A short stretch of State Route 3 winds through the heart of this little town for about two miles.

It’s worth a day trip to enjoy all the little shops and restaurants the town has to offer. During the Christmas season, the town’s businesses dress up their shops and homes like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting.

The town recently underwent a total transformation utilizing a Revitalization Grant offered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

The theme resonated

throughout the town is “Return to the Village.” The streets are lined with old-fashioned, single-pole lighting and murals.

Stay for a night at one of the bed and breakfasts, The Inn at Montross or The East N Cottage. If those are booked, there is always the Washington and Lee Motel.

Began your day with at the Art of Coffee The Northern Neck’s premier bistro, coffeehouse and art gallery. Yesterday’s Restaurant features a delectable dinner menu with all dinners including sides and dessert.

If you’re craving something more international, try Angelo’s Pizza or El Mariachi Restaurant. The Dairy Freeze, located next to Stan’s Skateland on the southern end of town, is famed for its cheeseburgers.

Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

For the antique lovers, the town has many shops, including Re Unique, Montross Vintage, and Compulsive Cravings Antiques & Gifts.

If touring the murals throughout the town doesn’t sate visitors’ love for art, they can shop Carrot Cottage, Diane Jackson Artist Studio & Gallery or visit Phil McKenney, Illustration Freelance Artist.

Visiting the Westmoreland Museum is a must before leaving town to see the surrounding historical sites. George Washington’s Birthplace and Westmoreland State Park are just a stone’s throw away from Montross as you travel east to Colonial Beach.

Events Westmoreland

www.journalpress.com

Volunteer

Fire Department will host block party on Nov 14. Just a $10 cover charge allows you to enjoy music by Southern Bred Band.

Barbecue and beer are available for purchase during the event.

Come out and enjoy the fun while helping raise money for a good cause. The party starts and 7 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m.

The Town of Montross will host its 22nd Annual Spirit Festival Dec. 4-6. Many area businesses will host open houses.

The Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department will host Holiday Bingo and there will be a Christmas Spirit Tree Lighting, which helps to raise fund for WVFD Auxiliary.

More events will be scheduled as the event nears. For the latest activity information go to visitmontross.com.

Page 23

Wave hello to Santa when you come to visit Montross during the holiday season.

Photo by Cynthia L. Ailey

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Getaway • Fall/Winter, 2015

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