Early Virginia History

Wilderness Road Opens Its Doors To The Community

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 by Michael Brindle

Wilderness Road State Park will host their second annual Community Appreciation Open House on Saturday, September 11 with a free lunch and a day full of entertainment beginning at 8:00 am. The highlight of the event will be a special evening program at 7:00 pm, featuring the life of frontier legend Daniel Boone as Scott New returns to Historic Martin’s Station to reprise his role as the folk hero in a Kentucky Chautauqua program through the Kentucky Humanities. The event is free of all charges with the community encouraged to come out and enjoy their state park.

By the time of his death in 1820, Daniel Boone had already become a legend. Much of what Americans think they know about this great frontiersman is in some instances, off the mark. “Neither a backwoods bumpkin nor an epic slayer of Indians, Boone was an intrepid explorer and natural leader whose actual exploits easily justify his larger-than-life reputation,” explains the Kentucky Humanities Council. “And he never wore a coonskin cap!”

Scott New has portrayed Boone in films and other venues, such as Wilderness Road State Park, Colonial Williamsburg and now Boonesborough Ky. For more than 10 years Scott has followed his lifelong interest by interpreting the Kentucky frontier and early American history. “Scott (New) is a tremendous interpreter, showman, teacher and friend” stated park concessions manager Mike Brindle. “I have known Scott for more than 8 years and I consider him to be one of the best interpreters I have witnessed and an expert on Daniel Boone.

The program will focus on Boone’s experience as a longhunter and trailblazer, with New utilizing first-hand account dialogue in his presentation. “The program will be conducted in first-person perspective, meaning Scott will speak, act and take on the demeanor of Daniel Boone, himself,” explained Brindle. “If you ask him a modern-day question, he will not know the answer. When he is in character in the program, he is Daniel Boone.”

In appreciation for the local community’s support in helping Wilderness Road State Park enjoy another wonderful year, the park will offer a full day of entertainment along with a free hotdog lunch at 12:20 pm. The day begins when the park grounds open at 8:00 am with programs slated to begin at 10:00 am. The programs will feature history and nature activities as well as an Amazing Race using GPS (Global Positioning System) units.

“This Park belongs to the people of the Commonwealth and we are pleased to have an opportunity to show our appreciation with a day of fun, food and activities, free of charge, to our extended community.” explained Wilderness Road State Park Manager Jon Tustin.

One program sure to generate lots of interest is Stories in Stone presented by Cumberland

Gap National Historical Park interpreter Scott Teodorski. Join Teodorski and step back in time to see and hear what our rock formations tell us about our land’s history, its makeup and events that shaped our region’s past.

Ever wonder what lurks in the layers of sandstone and limestone that have been thrust through the top of the ground as a result of the Earth’s plates slamming into one another? Ever wonder what rocks would tell us if they could talk? Teodorski will attempt to interpret what the rocks are telling us by studying their structure, chemical makeup and the fossils they contain.

“I think at some point in time, most of us that grew up in this area have played and climbed on rocks. And we probably have all turned over a few rocks just to see what was under them or what they looked like,” explained Mike Brindle, concessions manager at Wilderness Road State Park. “This program will take us back to that time, and allow us to find out exactly what these rocks, rock formations and cliffs have to tell us about an ancient world forgotten, but preserved in stone.”

Teodorski concluded with: “Come out and listen to these stories in stone and see how ancient earth-changing forces still chart the journey of modern explorers.” This activity will be held at 2:00 pm in the picnic area.

Welcoming ceremonies will be conducted at 12 noon. A free hotdog lunch complete with chips, drinks and a dessert treat, will get underway at 12:30 pm at shelter #3.

A new addition to the park’s offerings is the Cumberland Outpost, located behind the Visitor Center, which opened this summer offering ice cream, candy, snacks and drinks. It also serves as a nature center. The Outpost will be open throughout the Open House celebration.

Historic Martin’s Station will open at 10:00 am. The theme for the weekend is “frontier frolic” illustrating how settlers eased the tension of living along a frontier that could be both grim and dangerous.

Tours of the Karlan Mansion will be conducted at 11:00 am and 4:15 pm by Frances Robertson Inwood. Francis is a descendant of Robert and Susan Ely who built the home in 1877-78. “Frances has so many pictures and information that help tell the history of this building,” explained Brindle. “Now she wants to share this wealth of information with the public.” Those wishing to join the tour are asked to meet at the front porch of the mansion at least five minutes prior to the start of the tour.

Other programs and activities slated for the day include: A nature hike (10:00 am), an 18th century artillery demonstration (12:30 pm) and children’s entertainment by Wilderness Wilma the Clown (1:30 pm). Live music by Tazewell Pike and Ken Wilson will entertain guests from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm near the Cumberland Outpost. The very popular “Critters in the Creek” program takes place at 3:00 pm. At 4:00 pm, a historical first-person program will be conducted at Martin’s Station.

The annual horseshoe tournament begins at 2:00pm at Shelter #3. The popular event from a year ago returns with prizes to be awarded to the winning two-man team. Teams wishing to enter the tournament are asked to meet at Shelter #3 at 1:30 pm.

Based on the popular reality television show, The Amazing Race, the park will conduct its own Amazing Race scavenger hunt at 5:30 pm using GPS units. Each 4-6 person team will hike, walk, dig and climb to locate clues which will lead them to the final puzzle. The team solving their puzzle first will win a cache of prizes. Pre-registration is required for the Amazing Race game. To register a team, please call the park office at 276-445-3065.

“The staff at Wilderness Road State Park is enthusiastically looking forward to welcoming the community to enjoy and explore the wonderful resources and activities here at the park,” concluded Tustin

The event is being sponsored by Powell Valley Bank and the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park. For more information, please contact the park by phone: 276-445-3065.

Belle Isle State Park presents; The Marvels of Morattico!

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Annette Bareford

What can be better than spending the morning paddling along the beautiful waterways of Belle Isle State Park in Lancaster County incorporating in that float a trip to Morattico’s Waterfront Museum?

Saturday September 4th, Belle Isle State Park and Morattico Waterfront Museum team up to offer a kayak program called the “Marvels of Morattico.” Kayakers will leave Belle Isle at 10 a.m. and paddle down Mulberry Creek and onto the Rappahannock River to the Village of Morattico. Along the way the guide will talk about the native inhabitants, early European settlement, and the modern history of the village. Participants will go on shore at Morattico, tour the museum, and have a light snack before paddling back to the park and arriving about 1 p.m.

Belle Isle State Park is located in Lancaster County near the town of Kilmarnock. Morattico is a village on the northern shore of the Rappahannock River in the heart of Virginia's Northern Neck, consisting of a post office, two churches, the Morattico Waterfront Museum, an active though diminishing fleet of fishing vessels, and scores of dwellings of its residents.

Since the 17th Century Morattico has been depended upon the Rappahannock River for its sustenance and identity. Now, in the 21st Century, during a time when oyster and crab populations in the Rappahannock River and the Chesapeake Bay have shrunk dramatically, Morattico is working to remain a vital and vibrant waterfront community. The Morattico Waterfront Museum, housed in the old Morattico General Store, is committed to preserving and honoring Morattico's history and, in the process, contributing to the development of its future.

Cost for the program is $15 per single kayak and $22 per double kayak and includes all equipment. Call 462-5030 for reservations. For more information on Belle Isle State Park visit our website.

Virginia is for Students Tour 2010 - "History ... through Adventure!"

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

By Taylor Thorp, Cove Ridge Center Director, Natural Tunnel State Park

This past June, 7 students and 2 staff left the Cove Ridge Center at Natural Tunnel State Park, heading off on the annual Virginia Is For Students Tour 2010. It’s a trip that’s been done before, visiting sites such as coastal Virginia during the 400th Anniversary of the founding of Jamestown, as well as Chincoteague, False Cape, touring Washington, D.C., and visiting 9 Virginia State Parks in 1 week! But this year marked something different … something that hasn’t been done before in the history of Virginia Is For Students.

This year, the students followed in the footsteps of the American Civil War, from events that helped trigger it, to the first major land battle, to the site of some of the most important moments, and to the site of the surrender of Confederate forces that marked the end of the war. This year, the Virginia Is For Students Tour was planned around the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War – the 150th Anniversary.

So what is the Virginia Is For Students Tour, you ask? That’s easy – it’s a multi-day, overnight, educational and adventure touring program that focuses on the recreational and historical opportunities that exist within Virginia, or have direct bearing on our state. Working with Virginia SOLs, it offers rising Sophomores and Juniors a chance to visit parts of the state they may have never seen, while allowing them to be immersed in activities that can make a lasting impression. The Tour is run by the Cove Ridge Center of Natural Tunnel State Park in conjunction with the school systems of Scott, Lee, and Wise counties, and the City of Norton. It is partially funded through gracious contributions from the Cove Ridge Foundation & Advisory Board, a non-profit group that works with the Cove Ridge Center.

This year, the Virginia Is For Students Tour took 5 students from Lee County High School and 2 students from Rye Cove High School (in Scott County) on a 8-day trip around our state. Beginning on Sunday, June 20th, the students traveled through more than half the state, and took in 3 State Parks, 1 National Battlefield, 1 National Military Park, 2 National Historical Parks, a large Ropes Course and Zip-Line, whitewater tubing, and canoeing – not to mention the sights, experiences, and friendships that occurred along the way! Two nights were spent in tree house shelters – yes, in real trees! – at Maple Tree Campground, while 2 nights each were spent at Lake Anna and James River state parks, and 1 night at Hemlock Overlook. The group returned to the Cove Ridge Center on Sunday. June 27th.

When it came to adventure and recreation, this year’s Tour made sure that the students kept active. From whitewater tubing on the Potomac River during their first full day out, to tackling an 8-mile canoe trip on the James near the end of the trip – this trip made full use of the outdoor activities throughout our state. In addition to the swimming and hiking offered at each State Park, the students spent an entire day in the middle of the week at the Adventure Links Hemlock Overlook, where they participated in various team building activities. From ground initiatives to low-ropes elements to soaring down a zip-line – the programs at Hemlock Overlook helped to raise group and individual confidence, self-esteem, and group dynamics and cohesion. And all the students agreed – it was definitely one of the highlights of the trip!

While adventure and recreation were an important part of the trip, some of the most unforgettable moments came from visiting the historical sites throughout the Tour. As the first stop on the trip, the students toured Harpers Ferry, WV, site of the infamous John Brown Raid on the federal armory, and one of many precursors to the American Civil War. The next historical stop centered on Manassas National Battlefield, where the students toured the sites of the first and second battles of Manassas (or Bull Run). It was here that they learned about spectators venturing out from nearby Washington, D.C. to watch the first battle – only to flee back to the city when the Confederate forces won. One student told the staff after visiting: “Manassas was heartbreaking. It’s sad to hear about the thousands of men dying and (us) actually being there.” It was also here the group saw firsthand the spot where General “Stonewall” Jackson earned his nickname.

Later in the week, the students toured the battlefields and sites around Fredericksburg, VA. They followed the Sunken Road and saw the wall that protected Confederate forces during the Marye’s Heights portion of the battle, where failed Union charges led to more 6,000 casualties. The group also visited the Stonewall Jackson Shrine, where they saw the bed in which he had died. One student commented, “It was awesome, yet very… creepy. The bed he passed away in still had the indentation of his body.”

The last place the students visited was Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park, the site of the last major battle of the Civil War. The group toured the McLean House, and saw firsthand the room and desks where Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant signed the surrender papers that ended the war. All the students mentioned that site and the house had a profound impact on them, and one student said, “We got to see ‘where our nation reunited.’”

Waging through “battles” of their own, the students fought heat and bugs and long days to follow in the footsteps of some of the most important parts of Virginia’s history. They witnessed and toured sites that marked the beginning, middle, and ending to a war that saw more battles fought in our state than in any other. And one thing all the students and staff could agree on was the fact that there was no information in any textbook that could compare to the impact of actually being there.

So, where will the Virginia Is For Students Tour go next year? When will it run? These are questions that the students are already asking! Not to worry – planning is already underway, with hopes that next year’s Tour will be better than ever!

Passport in Time--the creolization of Chippokes

Wednesday, July 7, 2010 by Staci Martin

Creolization is the complex process of cultural borrowing and lending in a region with many different cultural influences.

The cultures that lived on the land that is now Chippokes Plantation State Park have come together through many generations to create a unique "Chesapean" culture that is derived from African American, Colonial European, and Native American influences.

So put on your "Indiana Jones" hat and come out to this year's Archaeological Field School at Chippokes Plantation State Park.

This year, Chippokes Plantation State Park will host their annual Archeology Field School at the Brick Kitchen site near the Jones-Stewart Mansion. Previous digs have explored a Native American site on the James River Trail, a hunting post used by early Colonial settlers near the park's pool complex, and an enslaved persons' cabin on Walnut Valley Farm. The artifacts and information gleaned from this year's dig will help historians understand the cultural mixing bowl that this area has come to represent.

The field school will be open to the public from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2010 through Monday, July 19, 2010.

At the Archeology Field School, archaeologists come from around the nation to train and learn new techniques. The public is welcome to come and observe their work as well as interact with field school partners including representatives from U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Archeology Society of Virginia, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR), and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

At 2pm, David Johnson, DCR Director and Kathleen Kirkpatrick, DHR Director will be guest speakers discussing the field school and its ongoing research.

The Fifer at Chippokes

Monday, July 5, 2010 by Virginia State Park Visitors

A visitor contributed post by Shellie from Rocky Mount, Virginia

While staying at Chippokes State Park we have the privilege of visiting the historic triangle in Virginia: Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown. There is a free car ferry just about 3 miles from Chippokes that takes you over the James River.

My oldest daughter plays flute in high school marching band and when she saw the fife and drum images in some of the shops in W'burg she just had to find a fife! In the image you will see her playing it outside our cabin with the cotton fields behind here at Chippokes State Park.

Here is some history on the fife in Virginia: With the onset of war in 1775, Virginia began to train an army to defend against a British invasion. Fifers and Drummers were an important part of the 18th-century military. Just as Virginia enlisted soldiers and stockpiled arms and ammunition, it also trained fifers and drummers to work with soldiers in the field. In the 18th century, fifers and drummers tended to be boys ages 10 to 18. In 1778, Virginia needed soldiers to protect the Capitol City of Williamsburg. The General Assembly established the Virginia State Garrison Regiment, which served in the Tidewater area of Virginia, stationing troops at Hampton, Yorktown, and Williamsburg. Fifers and drummers served with the enlisted men of this regiment. According to the Williamsburg Public Stores accounts, the field musicians numbered some 22 players.

4th of July in Virginia's State Parks

Friday, July 2, 2010 by Rick Anderson

After one of the hottest June’s on record the first couple of days of July have provided some much needed relief just in time for one of the biggest outdoor and camping weekends of the year.

Looking at the weather, it looks like the coolest of the weather will be Friday and Saturday over much of the Commonwealth with a gradual warm up heading into the second half of the weekend. With the weather being a little cooler than usual anyone camping may want to plan accordingly. With overnight temperatures forecasted to be in the 50’s over almost the entire state Friday and Saturday night, long pants and a sweat shirt or fleece is definitely in order for anyone camping. The weekend forecast does look dry for most of the state but remember summertime often brings the typical afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the mountains, so packing rain gear is always recommended whenever camping in Virginia in the summertime.

I know that most families, mine included, look forward to evenings around the campfire. The stories, conversations and bonding that happen around the campfire are sure to create memories that last a lifetime. As I mentioned earlier, it was one of the hottest June’s on record across much of the Commonwealth and thus our beautiful forest are a little dry. Please take care and never leave a campfire unattended, fully extinguish them before leaving your site or going to bed. A big part of enjoying our parks is assuring they are preserved for future visitors and generations. Please do your part.

One of my favorite activities when camping is star gazing, our great state parks offer some of the darkest skies in the Commonwealth, so whenever camping take a minute and look up. The moon will not rise until 11:30pm – 1am over the weekend so the early evening sky will be dark. One interesting thing of note this month is Mercury, Venus, Mars and Saturn will be lined up in the western sky after sunset, watch as they get closer together as the month of July progresses. If you are more of a night owl, like me, Jupiter will be rising in the east after midnight to dominate the night sky. A clear sky, lawn chair and a good pair of binoculars can provide countless hours of enjoyment!

Remember that each campground in Virginia’s State Parks offers different amenities ranging from primitive sites to some campgrounds offering electric and water. Proper planning and preparation is critical, so please take a little extra time to check what’s offered at the park you plan on visiting.

I sincerely hope everyone will set aside some time this weekend and get outdoors! If you do not have time to camp maybe visit a park and hike or just have a picnic. Virginia also has a rich history and considering it’s the 4th of July, why not discover some of the many places that played an important role in our country’s founding. Places like Jamestown, Williamsburg or Yorktown. The homes of some of our most influential founders like Washington, Jefferson and Madison. All these of these places are in Virginia and never more than an hour away from an award winning Virginia State Park.

4th of July Beach Bonfire

Thursday, July 1, 2010 by James Barrett

Chippokes Plantation State Park
Sunday, July 4
8 - 10 pm

Come join the Chippokes Family on the 4th of July for a Beach Bonfire!

Enjoy a beach bonfire on the James River shore as you watch several impressive fireworks demonstrations illuminate the sky! View fireworks from Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, and Fort Eustis.

A wagon will pick up campers in the campground at 8 pm. Non-campers please meet at the Visitor Center Parking Lot. Feel free to bring a lawn chair and some bug spray. S’mores will be provided!

Enjoy a no traffic alternative to some of the area's most popular fireworks displays

Celebrate America's Birth on the Wilderness Road

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 by Michael Brindle

Independence Day, an American holiday through and through! A perfect excuse to gather the family and have a cookout, vacation on the beach, or visit one of the many historic areas in Virginia as we celebrate the birth of our great country!

I am surrounded by history every day I come to work here at Wilderness Road State Park. Seeing Joseph Martin pass by my door is a common occurrence many would love the opportunity to experience. You know, it is often said that the war for American Independence was won right here on the frontier. The backwoods soldiers, the militia formed from farmers and the Native American peacekeepers such as Martin and Daniel Boone are truly unsung heroes of the Revolutionary War.

But don’t just take my word for it. Join us on Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4 from 10 am to 5 pm for A Declaration of Independence at Historic Martin’s Station. Imagine the reaction from the thousands of men, women and children that were struggling to find a better life, when they found out about the Declaration of Independence. The news spread quickly across Virginia’s frontier backwoods that on July 4, in the year 1776, the Second Continental Congress is to meet in Philadelphia. Word has it that at this congressional meeting, a Declaration of Independence from King George and Great Britain, will be executed and signed, thus allowing these fledgling colonies to spread their wings and journey forward into this world as a new nation with foundations built upon freedom. Severing the ties with the British Crown brought forth both fear and excitement. Join the men and women at Martin’s Station as they receive this historic news and share their hopes and dreams of this new nation.

While visiting the park, be sure to enjoy a festive picnic in one of our shelters, or in our picnic area, all framed with the picturesque Cumberland Mountains, on the very ground traveled by Boone and 200,000 men, women and children known simply as the Wilderness Road.

I have always loved history, growing up right in the middle of Virginia’s Historic Triangle of Jamestown, Yorktown and Williamsburg, in my opinion the real birthplace of our country! The very thoughts of walking along the same path as George Washington, Patrick Henry and many of our other forefathers still brings chills to my spine.

For more information, please contact 276-445-3065 or email us at: wildernessroad@dcr.virginia.gov

Tips on Camping at First Landing State Park

Thursday, June 24, 2010 by Staci Martin

First Landing State Park is a truly unique camping destination. It is a 2,888 acre natural area set within the coastal urban area of Virginia Beach. Essentially, you get the best of both worlds---the great outdoors and nature programs as well as easy access to great restaurants and attractions.

As a long-time Virginia Beach resident, park employee, and local tourist---I've developed a "sample itinerary" for a weeklong camping stay at First Landing complete with insider tips related to traffic, sights, park programs, and what to bring.

Day One--Friday

Campsite check-in begins at 4pm. The contact station is the "gatehouse" located at the park entrance. Because we have a very short driveway, you will be directed to pull through, park your vehicle and come to the front window to get your site assignment. Be sure to watch the informational video while you are waiting to get your site assignment.

Once you get your site set up, you can stop by the park's Campstore for anything you need. The Campstore stocks groceries, RV parts, fishing gear, charcoal, firewood, souveniers, and more!! Be sure to pick up a "Sunny Day Guide" from the kiosks outside the campstore...it is chock full of coupons.

After dinner, spend some time on the park's beautiful Chesapeake Bay beach. There are no lifeguards on duty, but the slow wave action and shallow water make it a great spot for small children to play in the surf.

Once the sun sets, you'll want to build your own campfire. Firewood is available at the campstore--please don't burn deadfall or cut trees in the park. If you like, join the park's evening Campfire program where you might make a few new friends while you eat some S'mores.

Did you know First Landing State Park hold the Guinness World Record for the World's Largest S'more??!! Stop by the Chesapeake Bay Center to find out just how big it was and how many chocolate bars, graham crackers, and marshallows it took to make it!

As you settle in for the night, remember quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. The main contact station is staffed 24 hours a day from mid-June through mid-August. If you have any questions or would like to report any problems, you can let them know.

Day Two (Saturday)

Good morning!! If you haven't already set up a screened tent over your picnic table, you ought to do that first thing this morning. In the cooler morning air, mosquitoes and biting flies can be an inconvenience.

Be sure to reset your tent stakes--the park is in a wetlands area and the moisture in the soil can loosen your stakes after the morning dew is absorbed. Also, be sure to secure your RV and any valuables while you explore the park and the Hampton Roads area.

Busch Gardens Amusement Park, the Virginia Beach Aquarium, the Boardwalk, the Cape Henry Lighthouse at Fort Story, and the Historic Triangle (Jamestown, Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg) area are the Top 5 things most visitors like to do while in the Hampton Roads area.

We'll visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse today and the other attractions later in the week when the traffic and crowds should be lighter.

First Landing State Park is named for the First Landing of the Virginia Company that went on to settle England's first permanent colony, Jamestown, in the New World. Before setting off for the Lighthouse at Fort Story, stop by the park's Chesapeake Bay Center First Landing Museum where you can get some perspective on the Virginia Company and their New World adventures.

Once you walk through the First Landing exhibit, you're ready to head over to Fort Story to see the cross and lighthouse. Fort Story is a working military base so be prepared by having appropriate identification with you and be prepared for a vehicle search. Access to the lighthouse is via the Atlantic Ave/88th Street gates--about 5 miles east of the park on Shore Drive. (Turn left out of the park's campground entrace!)

There are strict rules about climbing the lighthouse stairs. Children must be 42" tall, children can not be carried up the staris, and not backpacks or frontpacks are allowed.

After visiting the lighthouse, you'll probably be ready to spend the afternoon on the beach. Be sure to check the park's program schedule for evening guide hikes or nature programs. Every Saturday night, First Landing offers an excellent night hike--and it is FREE!

Day Three (Sunday)

Sunday morning in a great time to visit the Oceanfront/Boardwalk. To get there, turn left out of the park's campground entrace, follow Shore Drive until it turn into Atlantic Avenue. There is a parking garage at 31st and Atlantic.

The huge King Neptune statue is a great meeting place if your group wants to split up and do separate activities. There are also many excellent and affordable breakfast spots nearby. Bike rentals and skate rental kiosks are located up and down the boardwalk.

Lifeguards are on duty for much of the main summer season along the Oceanfront/Boardwalk. A flag system is also in place. Be mindful of the riptide current and heavy wave action along this section of the Atlantic. Red flags mean no swimming; yellow flags mean to be EXTREMELY CAUTIOUS--wade only to your ankes; green flags mean it is safe to swim. The area past 5th Street is designated for surfer's only. There is an excellent handicap/stroller accessible playground for small children at 5th Street.

On Sunday afternoon, I recommend you take a leisurely drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. This 17-mile span is considered one of America's "Modern Marvels." Just a few miles past the northern end of the bridge is Kiptopeke State Park.

Kiptopeke State Park has an excellent fishing pier and boat launch. Kayaks are available for rent as well.

After working up an appetite fishing or hiking at Kiptopeke State Park, I recommend you stop by Stingray's for some great seafood and souveniers.

Day Four--Monday

Traffic in Hampton Roads can be a challenge! I recommend you hold off on Busch Gardens and the Historic Triangle until mid-week. Since this is a tourist area and many people take long weekend trips, tunnel traffic westbound on Mondays can be very heavy.

Of course, you have to be flexible with the weather. When I'm camping, I usually hold an indoor activity in reserve in case of rainy weather or severe sunburn from the previous day's activities. The newly renovated Virginia Beach Aquarium makes for a great indoor activity!!

The Virginia Beach Aquarium has a IMAX movie theater, excellent outdoor walking trail, fabulous exhibits, a shark tank, seaturtle tank, and numerous touch tanks!

First Landing State Park has an excellent partnership with the Aquarium. Throughout the year, many rehabilitated sea mammals are released from the park into the wild. While these events are unpredictable, you might get lucky and witness a seal release like this one that happened last year.

Day Five--Tuesday

Virginia's Historic Triangle is a unique area that bore witness to the settlement of the New World, the colonization of the New World and the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown that ensured victory for the American Revolutaries.

As always, traffic approaching the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel can be heavy. Tunnel back ups can sometimes reach 6 miles. There are numerous signs that indicate the length of the back-up. Bear in mind, on average, each mile of back up equates with a ten-minute delay. I recommend that you leave early--before 7:30 a.m. and return late--after 7:30p.m.

The bridge tunnel traffic is heaviest from 8am-10am and 3pm-7pm. Use HOV lanes whenever possible. Also, when traveling eastbound on your return trip--stay in the far left lane--it moves faster and allows you to avoid merging traffic.

There is so much to see and do in this area, I recommend you pick just one or two sites to focus on. If you are looking to plan your visit with a timeline theme, you ought to visit the Jamestown sites first, then Colonial Williamsburg, ending with the Yorktown Victory Center and a visit to Riverwalk Landing for dinner or ice cream.

If Virgina's agrian history is more to your liking, take the ferry across the James River to Surry, Virginia and Chippokes Plantation State Park. Chippokes Plantation State Park houses the Chippokes Farm & Forest Museum, the ante-bellum Stewart Mansion, and 18th century River House. Don't forget your bathing suits for a dip in their olympic-sized swimming pool!

Once you return to the First Landing, check the program schedule for the Stargazing program times. Stargazing is offered every Tuesday night!!

Day Five--Wednesday

It's Busch Gardens time!! As a long-time annual passholder, I have a lot of experience with visiting Busch Gardens. Even though it is mid-week traffic an be an issue near the Busch Gardens exit off I-64. Arrive early and leave early evening or arrive early afternoon and leave after the rides shut down.

By going mid-week, you are avoiding the "locals crowd" that tend to visit Busch Gardens on the weekend and you are avoiding the "long weekenders" who visit on Mondays and Fridays.

Check out the Busch Gardens website for all the info you need to make the most of your visit.

If you return to First Landing in time, be sure to check out the Moonlight Movie offered every Wednesday night at 8:30 p.m. in the park's amphitheater. The movie is always age appropriate and has a nature/wildlife theme. The movie is always free and popcorn/soda/candy is available at the Campstore.

Day Seven--Thursday

Now that you've thoroughly explored the Hampton Roads area, it is time to thoroughly explore the park.

First Landing has 20 miles of trails! You can rent a bike at the Campstore and ride the 6-mile (one way) Cape Henry Trail down to the Narrows/Broad Bay area. This small beach and wetland area is great for birdwatching. You might see eagles, owls, osprey, egrets, and herons.

On Thursdays at 2pm, the park offers a "What's in the Nets?" program at the Chesapeake Bay Center Boardwalk. Park naturalists, with your assistance, will seine for small fish, shellfish, shrimp, and crabs. You can get an up close look at all the different marine life in the bay's shallows.

Then at 4pm every Thursday, park naturalists conduct a guided hike through the Bald Cypress Trail. You absolutely have to bring your camera to this program!!

Departure Day--Friday

Enjoy the beach in the morning and then make ready to check out of your site by 3 p.m. Be sure to take all your trash to the dumpster at the Chesapeake Bay Center and notify the contact station staff of your departure.

Remember the campground is open seasonally from early March to early December, but the cabins are available for reservation year-round.

Happy Trails!

Green Fitness at First Landing State Park

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 by Staci Martin

Recent research published in England indicates that getting outdoor exercise can significantly improve your mental health and well-being within FIVE MINUTES of being outdoors!!

But we already knew that.....

A few years ago, First Landing State Park installed "Fitness Stations" along the Cape Henry Trail that are designed to give you a gym-type workout in the great outdoors. Park guests have commented that being able to exercise outdoors made them feel more mentally alert, full of life, and self-aware.

If you work all day under flourescent light and in a 4'x4' cubicle, by the end of the day, your mind and body craves the outdoors, natural light, and fresh air.

A Virginia State Parks Naturally Yours Passport that waives your parking fees and gives you additional discounts on cabins and camping for a year costs less than a month of gym membership.

Click here for a full list of Virginia State Parks Naturally Yours Passports, fee schedules, and application.

Do yourself a favor---get outdoors!!

10th Anniversary Raid Expects Record Turnout!

Thursday, April 15, 2010 by Michael Brindle

The following information was supplied by Billy Heck, Interpretive Program Manager - Wilderness Road State Park:

This year’s "Raid" at Martin's Station promises to be the best yet and will be held May 7-9, 2010 at Wilderness Road State Park. This is our 10th anniversary and we have scheduled three days of excellent programs and we are expecting a record turnout for re-enactors and visitors. In partnership with the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution we will be hosting a flag raising ceremony at the Wilderness Road Visitor Center Saturday morning at 10:00 am. This will be followed by a SAR wreath laying ceremony at the Wilderness Road Monument.

Another highlight of the event will be the unveiling of a new painting by Dann Jacobus. Dann is one of the nation’s premier frontier artist and will be presenting the park with a painting depicting Capt. Martin's return from the frontier campaigns. Gary Foreman, an award winning producer and a great friend of the park has graciously donated his time and effort to produce a new web advertisement that can be found in this blog. These programs, along with the battle scenarios, the hundreds of re-enactors, the many 18th century vendors, and the many demonstrations will make this the best colonial event of the year!

For more information, please call the park office at 276-445-3065, visit our official state website, or the friends' website dedicated to the fort.

Turning a Farm House into a Museum – Part I

Wednesday, March 17, 2010 by Zoe Rogers

After extensive research and consulting with experts, the mystery of what the Hillsman farm house resembled in 1865 is close to being solved. Many years ago, park manager Chris Calkins dreamt of bringing life back into the unfurnished home of the Hillmans family. His dream was to restore the Hillsman house, including furnishings, to reflect the 1865 conditions the family and soldiers experienced when the house served as a Federal army hospital. Now that dream is a reality.

The Hillsman farm house was built circa 1770 on a tract of fourteen hundred acres and is a classic example of Colonial Southside Virginia architecture. To accurately recreate the physical surroundings numerous primary sources exist to help us understand how the house was furnished following the battle. These sources include a basic inventory of Hillsman family furniture that was donated to the park many years ago and the written account by Lieutenant George Peck, 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, who was wounded during the battle and was brought to the house to recuperate.

To interpret the interior of the house to the Civil War period, paint analyst Susan Buck Ph.D was hired to use cross-section microscopy techniques to identify the original colors. From her findings, park staff painted the baseboard, stair post and door jams dark gray and the walls with limewash. The main entry hall door was reported to be “grained” probably to resemble Golden Oak. Graining is a painting technique that was a common practice in the 19th century that imitated expensive woods known as faux finishes. Decorative painter, John Kraus was hired to recreate the “grained” pattern based on a golden oak door owned by Calkins from a home in nearby Dinwiddie County.

Look for Part II of Turning a Farm House into a Museum later this week. We’ll talk about the current furnishings and put to rest the myth of the blood stains found on the floor of two rooms of the house.

The Hillsman Farm House Museum is located at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park in Amelia County and is a stop on the driving tour Lee's Retreat a Virginia Civil War Trail. Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park and the Hillsman house are on the National Register of Historical Places and listed as a National Historic Landmark.

What Did Colonial Kids Do for Fun?

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 by Cyndi Juarez

The Women of Leesylvania

I love electricity, it powers just about everything I do at home and allows me to keep working well past dark. My kids love it too, they watch television, play video games, use the computer, etc. When we have power outages they are fun for about an hour or so. We pretend "camp" at home and everyone gets a bit closer until the power returns. Then it’s back to business as usual and we all go our own ways.

Just this week due to the unfortunate demise of my son’s Playstation we were discussing what it would be like to live without power, all the time like they did in the old days.

If you’ve ever wondered what kids did for fun or what it was like to manage a household long ago come to Leesylvania State Park this weekend and get a glimpse of the unplugged past.

The Women of Leesylvania program at Leesylvania State Park this Saturday from 11- 3 will have something for the entire family. Cindy Buck- Thompson, as Martha Fairfax will entertain and answer questions about famous past residents of the park.

Chief Ranger, Sarah Phillips has also arranged a "travelling trunk" filled with colonial clothes for today’s kids to try on for size. There will be period crafts to try and interesting displays to discover. Please drop in and join us. There is a small fee for this program and details can be found on our website

A Journey through Black History at Twin Lakes State Park

Thursday, February 18, 2010 by Zoe Rogers

Contributors to this article were Anne Reeder, Park Manager Twin Lakes State Park, Lee Wilcox, Program Support Tech Twin Lakes State Park, and Chris Calkins, Park Manager Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park.

Virginia State Parks is home to a park whose black history dates back to the depression era and the civil rights movement of the 50s. During the early years of the Depression, the state began expanding the forest area buying land under the Resettlement Administration Program. A Civilian Conservation Corps camp known as Camp Gallion was established in June 1933. The camp was the headquarters for the CCC Company No. 1390, one of the few African-American CCC groups in the state. Although the primary duty of the CCC workers was to build fire trails, the 1390 Company was credited with a number of other construction projects including the construction of the two dams that created Goodwin Lake and Prince Edward Lake recreation areas.

According to local historian Greg Eanes the African-American CCC served as a pioneer in education, traditional and vocational, and offered many enrollees their first opportunities to learn skills that prepared young men for life. The Camp Gallion library had over 600 books, four daily newspapers, two weekly newspapers and one monthly. There was a camp newspaper, The Camp Gallion Dispatch, from 1935 to 1939.

From its inception in 1936 until 1950, the Virginia State Parks system made no accommodations for persons of African-American descent. In 1948, during an era of racial segregation in the South, an African-American named Maceo Conrad Martin was denied admission to Staunton River State Park. Represented by legendary civil rights attorney Oliver W. Hill, Sr., Martin filed suit challenging Virginia’s policy of providing state parks only for whites; the suit sought to establish “separate but equal” facilities for blacks. This legal challenge led to a decision by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Development to expand facilities at an existing recreation area for African-Americans in Prince Edward County and turn it into a full fledged state park.

In January 1949, Governor William Tuck wrote a special appropriation totaling $195,000 for development of the new Prince Edward State Park for Negroes. Improvements undertaken at this time included the construction of an enlarged swimming area, expanded parking lots, new roads, six housekeeping cabins, a bathhouse, and a concession area. The new park was opened to the public in June 1950, making it Virginia's eighth state park and the only pre-Civil Rights Era state park for African-Americans.

The two parks, Goodwin Lake and Prince Edward Lake, were run as two racially segregated parks until the early 1960s. Even though the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ended segregation, Prince Edward State Park and nearby Goodwin Lake Recreational Area continued to operate separately until they merged in 1976. As a result, Prince Edward-Goodwin Lake State Park was renamed Twin Lakes State Park in 1986.

Our Social Media Anniversary

Thursday, December 10, 2009 by Nancy Heltman

Picture by Theresa Thompson, see Flickr link at bottom of post

People often ask me how I got involved in social media for Virginia State Parks. I usually say it's because I had too much time off last December. That is pretty much the truth, but only part of it.

I am a great leave saver. Working for the state you can carry up to a certain amount of hours over from year to year based on how many years you have with the state. I hit that level the second year I was here so mostly I have to make myself take the time off. The word "workaholic" often comes out of my husband's mouth. Last year I had about two weeks to take before the end of the year as of early December (well technically before January 9). So I scheduled some time off. The weather was cold and yucky, I hate housework, couldn't afford to go anywhere, so I started playing around with social media.

Why social media you might ask? Regardless of how you feel about the outcome of the 2008 Presidential election, it is impossible to miss that social media played a big part in the outcome - both for grass roots fund raising and the mobilization of volunteers. It wasn't a great mental leap to realize that social media could be helpful in getting the word out about all Virginia State Parks has to offer.

Just to put this in perspective - up to November 30, 2008, I had a My Space page with 2 followers - that guy that follows everyone and my husband. I had started a Twitter account @nheltman in September but had never tweeted anything and just didn't get it. I wasn't even aware of how much blogging was going on around the internet.

On December 6, 2008 I posted my first blog to a free blogspot account. It is still there. Unfortunately I can't tell when we set up the Facebook Fan page (of course I had to set up a person one at the same time). We do know that I started the Twitter account on December 11, 2008. We are choosing to celebrate our first anniversary for Virginia State Parks social media on December 11, 2009. The rest is history - 2,000 page views a week on our blog, 2,000 plus fans on Facebook and 7,000 plus followers on Twitter. I also set up a My Space page, Ning page, Squiddo page, but we have pretty much narrowed our emphasis to blogs (now with Compendium Blogware), Facebook and Twitter.

I don't do it all myself - we have 20 staff blogging and now invite our visitors to contribute. Michael Salotti (@salottimc) who is our Reservations Center Parks Facility Inventory Specialist has done an excellent job with our Facebook page especially with keeping the content fresh and wading through the programming challenges. He also set up a really cook site on My Space for us and has really embraced blogging. Don Byrne, our Parks Information Manager, does a fantastic job with our enewsletter, our early foray into expanding our horizons. More importantly Don manages our events database and set up the automatic feed to Twitter for our events. I tried tweeting them manually during the winter months last year and found that overwhelming! We have a great team and I think that's the key to our success - that and having the wonderful Virginia State Parks to talk about in all those forums.

Anyway, to celebrate this milestone, we are offering a contest on Twitter. For a complete description of the contest and a list of prizes, click here. If you are on Twitter, I hope you will add #vastateparks to your tweets on Friday, December 11th!

Twitter

Facebook

Enews

Website

Birthday Cake Photo by Theresa Thompson Creative Commons

An Antebellum Christmas Celebration at Mulberry Hill Plantation

Thursday, December 3, 2009 by Pat Eastwood

Submitted by J. Shane Newcombe

Mulberry Hill is the ancestral home of the Virginia Carrington family, which was instrumental in many aspects of our country’s history from its infancy following the Revolutionary War leading up to the strategic Battle of Staunton River Bridge during the War Between the States. The estate earned the name “Mulberry Hill” from the endeavor to raise silk worms, which fed on the overabundant mulberry trees located throughout the acres. However, a local silk industry never reached fruition.

The manor house dates back to the mid 1700s: its outbuildings, law office, and grounds provide a perfect timeline of history for interpreting the life of a successful colonial family that encompasses more than two hundred years of history. The descendants of the Carrington family donated the house with all of its period antique furnishings as well as forty acres of land to the Staunton River Battlefield State Park in 2003.

This year, the Historic Staunton River Foundation, a private organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and development of the Staunton River Battlefield State Park is hosting an Open House at Mulberry Hill with an Antebellum-themed Christmas.

There will be a guided tour of the mansion, grounds and Judge Paul Carrington’s law office. Docents in period dress will be present in each room of the house and in the law office to inform visitors about the uniqueness and history of the treasured heirlooms and period antiques. Please share in the joy of visiting with a jolly ol’ Antebellum Santa Claus!

Also, there will be refreshments available to emulate what would have been available to families during Christmas for the duration of the hardships of the War Between the States. Confederate re-enactors of the 14th VA. Inf. Co. K and 23rd VA Inf. Co. will be on hand along with volunteer interpreters to provide visitors with a glimpse into the past. See how soldiers survived the harsh winters and what rustic and simple methods they used to celebrate the Christmas season. The re-enactors will bivouac in the boxwood gardens. Their encampment will be complete with tents, flags, campfires, and other accoutrements that will highlight an almost “realistic-feeling” of living history. In addition, an open campfire will feature period cooking techniques and foods.

During this time of year, when we often become wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we should remember to take time out of our busy schedules to share in the joys of the season and to give thanks.

Come out and share in the yuletide and cheer of the holiday season by making plans to attend the Antebellum Christmas Open House at Mulberry Hill on either Saturday or Sunday, December 5 & 6 from 1-5PM. Don’t forget your cameras! The event is open to the public. Admission is $5/person and children under 6 are admitted free. Tickets are only valid for the one-day pass and can be purchased at the Roanoke Station Depot in Randolph. Parking is available at the Depot, and a free shuttle service will usher visitors to and from the Plantation.

The money raised from this event will go towards fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of supporting the Battlefield State Park and its continued restoration efforts at Mulberry Hill. The Foundation is exclusively operated by a dedicated group of volunteers and its yearly dues-paying members; if you are interested in joining the Foundation or would like volunteer with this event or future events, please call 434.454.6219. Also, please visit the Foundation’s website at www.stauntonriverbattlefield.org.

Although Staunton River Battlefield State Park does not offer lodging, Staunton River State Park’s cabins are less than a thirty-minute drive away. For more information or to make reservations, call 800-933-PARK (7275) or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov.

Wilderness Road to Celebrate Christmas Past and Present...

Wednesday, November 25, 2009 by Michael Brindle

Wilderness Road State Park will be offering magical and historical views of our most treasured of holidays, with a Christmas Past and Present program on December 4 and 5. Santa in the Wilderness will provide a modern day feel to the Christmas season starring the jolly-old-elf himself Santa Claus, while Christmas on the Frontier offers visitors a glimpse into the holiday as celebrated on the 18th century Virginia frontier.

“This time of year, people get an extra bounce in their step, knowing Christmas is ‘just ‘round the corner’,” stated Mike Brindle, the park’s concession manager. “We were able to contact Santa Claus at the North Pole and he has agreed to take time from his busy schedule to make a special visit to the park. Although his stay will be short, he wanted to give the local children a chance to meet him and allow them to tell him first-hand what they would like for Christmas.”

Children ages 10 and under are welcome to visit Santa from 3 pm to 5 pm, Friday and Saturday, December 4 and 5 in the park’s Visitor Center. Each child will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and friends for a magical evening as he prepares for his Christmas journey 'round the World. They can have their picture taken with the jolly-old-elf, receive a small gift and enjoy light refreshments such as cookies and hot chocolate, provided by the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park. “Santa will be bringing his wife and maybe an elf or two to help him out,” explained Brindle. “He is really looking forward to meeting all the local children and the park is especially excited to have him visiting us!”

Children are encouraged to write a letter to Santa and drop it off at the park so that Santa can take it back with him to the North Pole. The letters can be dropped off now until December 5, each day, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

In lieu of their annual Christmas at Karlan, the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park will host their “open house” in conjunction with the Santa in the Wilderness program. The open house provides the public with an opportunity to enjoy light refreshments and listen to holiday music while viewing Christmas trees decorated with hand-made ornaments from the local elementary schools.

The Powder Horn Gift Shop will be conducting their annual Christmas sale, with 10 percent off of everything in the store, and for the first time, will feature a small Christmas Shop adorned with holiday gifts and ornaments. Local handmade Christmas crafts will also be available for purchase.

Christmas on the Frontier has become an annual event for the park, with visitors transported back to 1775 as the men and women of Martin’s Station celebrate the yuletide season. Martin’s Station will conduct the program from 5 pm to 7 pm with visitors able to enjoy holiday music 18th century style, Caroling and refreshments such as ginger snaps and cider.

During the third quarter of the 18th century Virginia’s frontier was comprised of a unique mixture of cultures from around the world. Immigrants from countries such as England, Scotland, Ireland, and Germany just to name a few were beginning to embark on our nation’s first westward migration and many found themselves traveling the Wilderness Road in search of a new life. As a result of this migration small frontier settlements soon became hubs for the many different social customs and traditions including religious beliefs.

Christmas in colonial America was very different than Christmas of today. Many colonists especially those with Puritan, Presbyterian, and Quaker beliefs thought of Christmas as a pagan celebration. Some New England colonies passed laws banning the celebration of Christmas and anyone found in violation was given a substantial fine. Unlike their northern neighbors, many settlers in the mid Atlantic colonies celebrated Christmas just as they had in England. Colonies with Anglican populations celebrated the Nativity during Advent, a penitential season in the church's calendar. The festive season began on December 25th and lasted until January 6th or what was commonly called the twelve days of Christmas. During this time a traditional Yule log was burned and wealthy families would invite the less fortunate to their homes to attend Christmas gatherings.

For more information, please contact the park office at 276-445-3065 or visit the park's official webiste, the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park of website or the Friends’ Martin’s Station website.

New Cabin Opens at Chippokes Plantations State Park

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Nancy Heltman

There is only one problem with the cabins at Chippokes Plantation State Park - there are too few of them!

Thanks to the 2002 State Parks and Natural Areas General Obligation Bond, the park has been able to restore another one of their historic tenant farmer houses. Cabin 4 is now available for reservations for dates beginning November 25, 2009.

Cabin 4 is a two bedroom cabin with a master bedroom featuring a queen size four poster bed and a second bedroom with bunk beds and a trundle bed. Park Manager Daniel White escorted a group of park supporters through the new cabin on Saturday and was met with oohs and ahs. The cabin decor is exceptional and features stenciling lovingly applied by Friends of Chippokes member Jo An Miller. Park Business Manager, Gloristine Evins, was responsible for decorating the cabin and was also involved in furnishing and decorating the original three cabins.

Because of their historic nature, Chippokes has tried to inspire a historic feel to the park's cabins with restoration like furnishings. We are state government after all, but Park Manager White was happy to explain the great deals he managed to find on the cabin's key pieces.

Any regular readers of my blog knows that the cabins at Chippokes Plantation State Park are a particular favorite of my husband and I, so I was on hand for the tour and am ready to make my February reservation!

Chippokes Plantation State Park has been continually farmed since 1619 and the cabins are set among agricultural fields. When we visited cabin 4 on Saturday it was surrounded with cotton and soy beans ready to be harvested.

Like all Virginia State Parks cabins, we require a two night minimum stay. Check in is 3 p.m. and check out is 10 a.m. Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, we require a week stay. If there is availability within thirty days before your arrival, we reduce that requirement to the two night minimum. Pets are allowed for a fee of $10 per night per pet. Reservations can be made through the call center by calling 800-933-7275 or on line. Chippokes is located within an hour and a half of the Richmond metropolitan area and Hampton Roads and is a free ferry ride across from historic Jamestown and Williamsburg.

Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Friends of Chippokes

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Nancy Heltman

The Friends of Chippokes, what we in Virginia State Parks lovingly refer to as one of our "Friends of" groups, has reached a major milestone - ten years supporting Chippokes Plantation State Park and our state parks in general!

Help them celebrate on Saturday, November 7, 2009 by coming out to Chippokes Plantation State Park in Surry, Virginia. If you haven't been to Chippokes in a while, you will have the opportunity to see new facilities and new faces (since last year the park has a new Manager and Assistant Manager).

Here is a schedule of planned events. Meet at the Conference Shelter and drop off your donation of a main dish and side dish to share. There is always lots of great food at Friends of Chippokes events!

10:00 a.m.
Enjoy a wagon ride to view new cabin #4 and Interpretive Center at Trail Head. Get a peek at new volunteer overnight quarters at Tenant House & Brick Kitchen. Tour Walnut Valley Farm if you haven't yet seen it.

12:30 p.m.
Back to Conference Shelter for: Update by our new Park Manager, Daniel White, and new Asst. Manager, Karen Lambey. Overview of Friends of Chippokes' 10 year support of the park. What's happening at Chippokes and plans for the future. Proposed opportunities for volunteer groups and individuals. Highlights of the new Friends of Chippokes website. Raffle to win a Chippokes Gift Basket (3 tickets/$1 donation to the Friends) AND LUNCH! (The Friends will furnish drinks and eating utensils.

Dress for the weather since the Conference Shelter is not heated. I will see you there!!

In case you don't know, Chippokes Plantation State Park is conveniently located for an easy drive from Richmond and central Virginia, Tidewater, and the Peninsula. Visitors from Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, York and James City County will enjoy a free ferry ride from Jamestown. Click here for a Google Map. Fall color should still be great that weekend too!

Get in the Holiday Spirit at Chippokes Plantation State Park

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 by Staci Martin

Enjoy a stroll through Christmases past at the annual Plantation Christmas at
Chippokes Plantation State Park from October 30 through November 1, 2009.

This artisan crafts festival features unique handmade crafts and gifts in the tradition of plantation and farm life. Handmade quilts, soaps, woodcraft, jewelry, jams/jellies, and more will be available from a wide array of artisan vendors and crafters. Special programs emphasizing Chippokes Plantation unique history will be going on throughout the weekend.

The Stewart Mansion will be decked out for the holidays and makes a great setting for unique holiday photos. Tour the mansion to get a firsthand account of what farm life was like in the mid-late 19th century. Food historian, Michael Twitty, returns with his knowledge of African-American foodways will demonstrate hearth cooking techniques using heirloom vegetables in the colonial Chesapeake kitchen. Michael will offer samples of his famous fried chicken and okra soup. There will be demonstrations on heirloom seeds and seed saving.

Since Chippokes Plantation is a unique place and holds the keys to the past of three distinct cultures--Native American, African American, and Colonial Settlers, Tess Bladen will demonstrate beadworking and offer a glimpse into the rich Native American history in Virginia. The U.S. Forest Service, the Virginai Dept of Historic Resources, and the Archaeology Society of Virginia will offer a "Passport in Time" featuring information and artifacts from the Jamestown-era dig sites at the park.

For civil war history buffs, the 46th Virginia returns to muster on the hour in their live encampment on Plantation grounds. Special demonstrations on Civil War life will be ongoing throughout the day.

The Chippokes Farm & Foresty Museum will be operating the "Express"--a wagon ride to meet the new barn animals. The Museum will open for tours throughout the festival.

The Festival is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except Sunday it closes at 4 p.m.) Adults are $5 per day with children under 12 free. Please visit www.plantationchristmas.com and www.virginiastateparks.gov for more information about the festival.