Get to Know Charlottesville, Virginia

Downtown Mall Charlottesville Charlottesville, Virginia is a city located about two hours southwest of Washington DC and about an hour west of the capital city of Richmond. Charlottesville is best known for the University of Virginia and being home to Thomas Jefferson. Charlottesville is an independent city in the Commonwealth, but the Charlottesville Metropolitan Area makes up Albemarle, Fluvanna, Buckingham, Greene and Nelson Counties.

What’s In A Name?

The city of Charlottesville was named for Queen Charlotte who married King George III in 1761. She was Queen of Great Britain until 1818.

History of Charlottesville

The area that is modern-day Charlottesville has long been settled upon by pioneers and native people. A Monacan Indian trail was used by travelers to connect Richmond and The Blue Ridge Mountains. This trail became known as Three Notch’d Road. Later, the explorer Meriweather Lewis’s great-great-grandfather patented land that makes up the area we know as Charlottesville today. The city was officially founded in 1762.

During the Revolutionary War, Charlottesville actually had a prison for British and German prisoners named The Barracks, hence the name of the popular shopping center.

In 1819, Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the Unite

Paramount Theater Charlottesville

d States, founded the University of Virginia. The university was built nearby Jefferson’s home, Monticello, and its distinguising feature, the Rotunda, still stands as the center of Grounds. UVA became the largest university in the south and one of Jefferson’s proudest achievements. Today, many traditions from the early years remain in tact.

Despite Virginia being home to the most battles in the Civil War, the city of Charlottesville remained out of harm’s way. In fact, the mayor surrendered the city to General Custer in order to save it. Around the same time, a factory that was used to make wool uniforms for confederate soldiers was burnt down. The factory was rebuilt and was known as Woolen Mills until it closed in the 1960s.

Railroads were built in Charlottesville in the 1850s and by the 1880s, the city had its first horse-drawn street cars. Around the turn of the century, more infrastructure was added including trolley lines, paved streets and eventually automobiles would find their way to Charlottesville. As the city grew, so did the University. It became, and remains, one of the area’s largest employers.

Nearby Attractions

Charlottesville’s most notable resident, Thomas Jefferson, lived in the beautiful mountainside home of Monticello. Today you can visit Monticello, tour his house and gardens, and learn about the countries Founding Father.

The Historic Downtown Mall is one of the longest walking malls in the country. Made up of historic buildings, there are dozens of shops, restaurants, theaters and more.

Grab lunch at Michie Tavern, a historic restaurant built in 1734. The tavern was a place where travelers could eat, drink and stay as they were passing through. Today, the tavern keeps its place in history – the “Southern Midday Fare” is served by folks wearing 1800s century attire.

The Rotunda on UVA’s Grounds is an iconic site in Charlottesville. The building sits in the center of Grounds, overlooking The Corner, a bustling place where students and locals can shop and grab a bite to eat within walking distance to the University.

James Monroe’s Highland is not far from Jefferson’s Monticello. Highland belonged to our nation’s fifth president and its history is preserved for people to enjoy today.

Carter Mountain’s Orchard not only has great local treats, apple picking and fun events, but the views of the city are breathtaking. 

Charlottesville is in the heart of Virginia wine country and is surrounded by dozens of delicious local wineries. In recent years, the brewery scene has exploded in the area, and even cideries as well. There is a restaurant for every craving, and the food scene is one you may find in a much larger metropolitan area.

Present Day Charlottesville

Charlottesville still has the smalltown feel, but has certainly grown in the past few decades. Local events, food, and the University continue to put the city on the map. 

Get to Know Somerset, Virginia

Somerset, Virginia is a small community that sits between Madison and Orange Counties. The small community is best known for the grand estates that were built in the early 1800s and remain there today. 

History of Somerset

Thomas Macon was a local of Somerset and owned land in the area. He eventually married Sarah Catlett Madison, the sister of James Madison. The two celebrated their wedding at Montpelier and later built a home on Macon’s land which came to be known as Somerset Plantation, a neighbor to Montpelier. The brick manor was designed by Dr. William Thorton, the architect behind the United States Capitol building. The home still boasts many of its original details.Somerset, Virginia

The area was well-traveled by well-known Virginia statesmen, including Philip Pendleton Barbour, the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court and others from the Madison family.

Nearby Attractions

The Market at Grelen is a 600 acre tree nursery complete with it’s own cafe, hiking trails, farm and plenty of local beer, wine and ciders. The Market hosts plenty of seasonal events and even hosts corporate retreats and serves as a wedding venue. 

Tetley, Rocklands and Frascati Estates still stand and show the beauty of 19th century Virginia architecture. Each with its own role in history, they are all on the National Register of Historic Places. Frascati Estate was home to Philip Pendleton Barbour, the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. It was designed by Thomas Jefferson and resembles the look of his home, Monticello.

Horton Vineyards and Honah Lee Vineyards are nearby wineries that boast the flavors of local Virginia wine. 

Present Day Somerset

Somerset is just a thirty minute drive to Charlottesville and offers a rural setting with plenty to explore. The small community is rich in history and modern day amenities. 

Get to Know the town of Madison in Madison County, VA

The town of Madison is the center of Madison County and serves as the county seat. Madison sits at the crossroads of three major highways – US Route 29, State Route 230 and State Route 231.

What’s In A Name?
MadisonCourthouse
The town of Madison and the county it is located in was named for prominent statesmen and the fourth president of the United States, James Madison. Madison’s father was a well-known planter in the area. Madison, himself, served on the Virginia House of Delegates and Continental Congress. His family’s home and tobacco plantation, Montpelier, still remains in nearby Orange County.

History of Madison

The town of Madison is still, and has always been known for the rich agriculture it produces. The rural setting has remained since its inception in the 1790s. The area was often traveled through by native people due to its proximity to paths to the Shenandoah Valley. The Royal Governor Andrew Spottswood and even Civil War General Stonewall Jackson has spent time in Madison.

In August 1929, President Herbert Hoover visited the town of Madison and ended up buying land in the mountains nearby. His visit is still celebrated each year.

A handful of buildings in Madison, including the courthouse that was built in 1828, are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Nearby Attractions

Not in Madison, but it’s namesake, James Madison’s Montpelier’s is just up the road in Orange County. Over 2,500 acres of land to explore, you can see where James and Dolley Madison lived in the Virginia countryside, tour their home and grounds, and visit the cemetery where the Madison family is buried.

Yoder’s Country Market is more than just a store. Grab homemade baked goods, bulk food, all-natural local meat, sandwiches, a petting farm, and so much more.

Graves Mountain is a beautiful place to go apple picking in the fall, camping during the summer, or host a retreat any time of year. The Graves family has been running the lodge and farm for over 135 years.

Shenandoah National Park is a must-see in the area. The views of the Blue Ridge are unbeatable. With over 200,000 acres of protected land, you will find tons of wildlife and countless hiking trails, and you can take your time driving through the park on Skyline Drive.

Madison, Virginia was the location of two Civil War Battles, both sites you can visit today. The James City Battlefield and Jack’s Shop Battlefield can be seen on your own or as part of a Civil War tour in the area.

Virginia is wine country after all, and Madison is home to some great wineries and breweries including Bald Top Brewing Company, Blue Quartz Winery & Shotwell Run Brewing Company, DuCard Vineyards, Early Mountain Vineyards, Prince Michel and Revelation Vineyards.

Present Day Madison

Today, Madison clings to its rich history and rural, agricultural roots. It is part of the Madison County School District and is governed by a mayor and a four-person town council. 

 

Get to Know Lovingston, Virginia

Lovingston is a ‘census-designated place’ located in Nelson County, Virginia, just southeast of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. It currently serves as the county seat for Nelson County and has a population of less than 600 people. Located on Route 29 South out of Charlottesville, Lovingston is the geographic center of the Commonwealth of Virginia and is just over 100 miles from Richmond.

What’s In A Name?

The area of Lovingston was named for the Lovings, a prominent family who settled in the area in the early 1800s. The town was formed in 1807 when the Nelson County Court HouseLoving family gave 30 acres of land to create it. The courthouse became the center of the town and was the first building built after the town was created. Lovingston was de-incorporated in 1938.

History of Lovingston

After the courthouse was built in 1809, the rest of the town was built around it in a grid-like pattern. The town was designed by George W. Varnum, a merchant and architect from the area. The courthouse served as a place for people to come and gather weekly from across the county. Around the courthouse, other buildings went up one by one, including a law office, taverns and hotels, and even a jail.

In 1969, Hurricane Camille hit and devastated parts of Nelson County and Lovingston served as a rescue area for all those affected by the storm. In total, 153 Nelson County lives were lost during the storm and a monument stands in courthouse square to remember them.

In 2005, over 130 buildings in Lovingston were recognized by the Virginia Landmarks Register and National Register for Historic Places. 

Nearby Attractions

The building best known as Kilmartin’s Pharmacy was originally built in the early 1800s and served as an inn for travelers. During the Civil War, it was used as a hospital for Confederate Soldiers. In the 1930s, the bottom was restored and used as a retail space and ultimately became the pharmacy. It was a place for gathering and remained open until 1980. The building still stands in Lovingston and is worth a visit.

Bright Hopes Baptist Church still stands and overlooks Lovingston. It was built by the American Missionary Association after the Civil War to serve freed slaves in the area. 

Nelson Hall once held the only theater in Nelson County. It still stands today, but has been used as a movie theater, performance hall and even a church over the years.

Mountain Cove Winery and Lovingston Winery are both located in Lovingston and worth the visit. Virginia Distillery Company has its home in Lovingston and makes Whisky using the water straight from the Blue Ridge Mountains. Wood Ridge Farm Brewery makes its beer from its own, farm-grown ingredients and prides itself on being ‘legitimately local’.

Over 29,000 acres of land makes up Fortune’s Cove Preserve, located in Lovingston. A challenging hike ends with gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The unique landscape allows for ‘unusual combinations of plants’ species to survive here. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife.

Present Day Lovingston

Today, Lovingston is part of the Nelson County Public School system. It’s layout still remains similar to the original grid it once was. 

There are plenty of wonderful wineries, cideries, distilleries and breweries within driving distance of Lovingston that provide fun for everyone. Lovingston is just a quick drive down Route 29 and is an easy commute to either Charlottesville or Lynchburg.

Lovingston’s historic charm and rural setting make it a great place to live.

Get to Know Scottsville, Virginia

Located just 19 miles south of Charlottesville, the town of Scottsville lies between both Albemarle and Fluvanna counties and is home to around 600 people. Once a large port on the James River, Scottsville has a growing downtown, family-friendly parks, plenty of history and small-town charm.

What’s In A Name?

Scottsville was originally named Scott’s Landing after a prominent family that lived in the area. In 1744, Albemarle County needed a site for its new courthouse. Scott’s Landing was originally built around Dr. John Scott’s 15 acres near the James River. Edward Scott’s house was used as a courthouse until one was built. The town of Scottsville was incorporated in 1818.

History of Scottsville

In the mid-1700s. Scottsville became the “western-most center of commerce and government” since rivers were the primary means of travel. In fact, Albemarle County was founded in Scott’s Landing. During that time, Thomas Jefferson’s father, Peter, traveled to Scottsville – then Scott’s Landing – to serve as justice for the newly formed county. Later, Thomas Jefferson practiced law in the Scottsville courthouse.

Initially, Scottsville was a river town used as a tobacco inspection station with a ferry. The town grew rapidly once the Kanawha Canal was completed in 1840. The canal ran parallel with the James River from Richmond and Scottsville became the largest port on this route. The canal was meant to reach all the way to the Ohio River, but the outbreak of the Civil War stopped construction and railroads became the main source of travel. 

Scottsville Virginia Canal Memorial
Scottsville Virginia Canal Memorial

During the Civil War, General Custer and General Phil Sheridan marched through Scottsville on their way to Appomattox. The town also gained a stop on the C&O Railroad that helped to supplement the travel over the James River. 

Since the incorporation of Scottsville, there has been over 20 floods in the region. In the 1980s, a levee was built to protect the area from future flooding. 

Scottsville VA Flood levels
Scottsville VA Flood levels

Nearby Attractions

Scottsville’s Historic District includes over 150 buildings in the region including commercial, religious, residential and factories. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The Scottsville Museum has exhibits that tell the story of Scottsville history and the important role the town played along the James River. The museum is inside the former Disciples of Christ Church which was built in the mid-1800s. 

Scottsville’s Confederate War Memorial Monument and Cemetery honor the soldiers who died during the Civil War who came from the Scottsville area. The obelisk monument was dedicated in 2002 and is a Civil War Trails site.

The James River provides plenty of fun for residents and tourists alike. Horseshoe Flats campground boasts tent and RV sites, and is the perfect place to canoe, swim, tube, fish and picnic. 

James River near Scottsville VA
James River near Scottsville VA

Just five minutes outside of Scottsville, Hatton Ferry still runs throughout the year. Hatton Ferry is the only poled ferry still operating in the United States. People can ride the ferry across the James just like settlers did more than 100 years ago.

Present Day Scottsville

Today, Scottsville is a growing community that has continued to hold onto the smalltown charm. The historic downtown is home to many businesses including the James River Brewery, The Tavern on the James restaurant, a yoga studio, plenty of small eateries and more. There is a Food Lion store so residents can do their grocery shopping close to home. There are soccer fields and playground at Dorrier Park. Scottsville also has a branch of the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library system.

Scottsville is the only incorporated town in Albemarle County. It has its own Town Council and Police Department. 

Get to Know Gordonsville, Virginia

Located 19 miles northeast of Charlottesville, the town of Gordonsville celebrated its bicentennial in 2013. The town is located in Orange County and has a rich history because of its proximity to the Virginia Central Railroad and several presidential landmarks nearby. Today, Gordonsville is a small residential town with a population around 1,500 people. 

What’s In A Name?

Gordonsville was named for Nathaniel Gordon who purchased 1,350 acres of land in the area in the 1780s. He opened a tavern in the area which became known as a place to eat, lodge and discuss local matters. Prominent guests like Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and James Monroe stopped by “Gordon’s Tavern” on their way south to Charlottesville. 

In 1813, Gordon became the postmaster of the area and the area became known as Gordonsville. The land was willed to Gordon’s son, John, at the time of Nathaniel’s death in 1820. By then the area had been built into a small town with a post office, general store, blacksmith shop and more.

History of Gordonsville

Gordonsville’s location between Potomac and Charlottesville played an integral role in the growth of the area. The Louisa Railroad was extended through Gordonsville in 1839 and in 1854 the Orange & Alexandria Railroad completed its line which connected the area to Northern Virginia.

Gordonsville VA Exchange Hotel
Gordonsville Exchange Hotel

By mid-century, Nathaniel Gordon’s original tavern had burned down and was rebuilt as a luxury hotel for train passengers. When the Civil War broke out, the hotel was used as a hospital for over 70,000 patients. Gordonsville was repeatedly threatened during the war, but remained standing. 

In 1870, the town was incorporated by the Virginia General Assembly. Around the same time, Gordonsville was known for the food options in the area. By the end of the century, the area was known as “The Fried Chicken Capital of the World” because of the entrepreneurial efforts of African-American women who fed southern fare to train passengers. 

Over the next one hundred years, the cultural culinary scene has continued to flourish. Gordonsville is known for award-winning BBQ, French and German restaurants, and fried chicken continues to bring tourists to the area.

Nearby Attractions

Nathaniel Gordon’s original tavern that was rebuilt as a hotel and served as a hospital during the Civil War stands today as The Exchange Hotel Civil War Medical Museum. The beautiful Georgian architecture still stands as it did during the war and has exhibits that tell the story of the town of Gordonsville. Some say that the Museum is a prime place for paranormal activity and hosts ScareFest each Halloween.

Black Meadow, or Wolftrap Farm, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because it was owned by James and Dolley Madison. The farmhouse and plantation surrounding it now serves as a wedding venue.

The Gordonsville Historic District is located in downtown Gordonsville and is comprised of over 80 structures including churches, commercial buildings and the Exchange Hotel.

The greater Gordonsville area is known for outdoor activities, wineries and cideries, and great cuisine. Be sure to stop in at BBQ Exchange, an award-winning BBQ Restaurant!

Present Day Gordonsville

Today, US Route 15 and US Route 33 connects Standardsville and Louisa, and passes right through Gordonsville. The area boasts lots of history, modern-day amenities, and convenience to Charlottesville, Richmond and DC.

Get to Know Zion Crossroads

Just outside Albemarle County where Route US 15 meets Route US 250 is the unincorporated community of Zion Crossroads. Known by many as an exit off of Interstate 64, Zion Crossroads has seen tremendous growth in the past two decades. Once a sleepy little place with a single grocery store and gas station, Zion Crossroads now boasts large retail stores and plenty of restaurants. And in 2014 a diverging diamond interchange helped to improve traffic flow from the increase of residents and visitors.

Zion Crossroads spreads across Fluvanna and Louisa Counties. It is just a twenty minute drive from downtown Charlottesville, fifty minutes to Richmond, and 2.5 hours to Washington DC.Zion Crossroads

History of Zion Crossroads

In 1928, the Federal Government began work on the US Highway system. Initially, US Route 250 was built through West Virginia and into Ohio. In 1934, the highway was built through to Richmond, Virginia. In the area of modern day Zion Crossroads, the new highway crossed over the existing Route US 15 and became a stop along the way from east to west.

Initially, Zion Crossroads consisted of little more than a grocery store, a restaurant, a gas station and a motel. In the 1970s, Virginia began work on Interstate 64, which added to the thru traffic in the area. 

After I64 was built, the area of Zion Crossroads began to boom. Convenient stores, gas stations and restaurants popped up all around.

In the early 2000s, the area began to grow even more. A Lowe’s home improvement store was built, followed by a Wal-Mart Super Center. More restaurants and hotels were added, and eventually the Spring Creek Golf Community Development, a 950 plus acre gated community consisting of walking trails, business park, golf course and other amenities.

Nearby Attractions

The area around modern-day Zion Crossroads has a rich history. Just two miles north, you can find Green Springs National Historic Landmark District, a 14,000 National Park that is home to dozens of buildings, many of which pre-date the Revolutionary War. 

A quick 11 mile trip north will land you in Gordonsville, home of the award-winning BBQ Exchange

Spring Creek is home to plenty of shopping and dining and is home to their gorgeous golf course.

The area is home to dozens of picturesque wineries and cideries including Cunningham Creek, Keswick Vineyards and Castle Hill Cidery.

Present Day Zion Crossroads

Today, Zion Crossroads is still booming. In the recent years, UVA Health System and Sentara Hospital have added practices in the area to serve the growing population. The convenience of shopping and restaurants has helped the area grow as well. Residents in nearby Lake Monticello and Villages of Nahoor have all benefited from the area’s commercial growth.

In the spring of 2019, construction began on the project of bringing public water and sewage to the area. This, many people believe, will help the area develop even further. The project is scheduled to be finished in the fall of 2020.

Zion Crossroads truly lives by its name – a crossroads of modern day convenience with historic roots. The area continues to grow and remains committed to its rural charm.