Voices of Black History

The Essex County Museum and Historical Society is proud to host:
"Voices in Black History"
a virtual program presented by The Performance Guild of The First Baptist Church of Tappahannock under the direction of Gina McGuire.

Thursday, February 25 at 6pm

Register for this program:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B65Tb_OeTPO qzude7kJRjg

Executive Director position

The Essex County Museum and Historical Society, located in historic Tappahannock, Virginia, is seeking a full-time Executive Director to more effectively manage and expand the Museum's operations. Full info at: http://www.ecmhs.org/exec-director.pdf

Braving the Wartime Seas

Sunday, June 5^th 2-4 P.M.

Essex County Museum and Historical society is hosting a book discussion: Braving the Wartime Seas

at the Museum located at 218 Water Lane in Tappahannock.

Tom Schroeder of Dunnsville, Virginia will discuss his involvement in the book. This book is a tribute to the Cadets and Graduates of the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy who died in World War II.  A reception will follow.

Rotary supports ECMHS Annual Fund

Essex County Museum and Historical Society's President, Tommy Blackwell, and its Secretary, Barbara Sethmann, receive a $1,000 Rotary check from Tappahannock Rotary Club members, Louise Velletri, and President Wright Andrews.  The presentation was part of the ECMHS membership meeting at St. Paul's Episcopal Church at Millers Tavern in honor of the Museum and Historic Society's preservation and education of local history and to help kick off its Annual Fund Campaign.

Essex Museum Catalog Index Online

Essex Museum collection catalogs are now searchable online. The five catalogs index objects, books, photos, documents and archives. Go to http://www.ecmhs.org/catalogs.htm

Open House at the Essex County Museum Sunday, November 3 2-5 PM

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the beautifully restored authentic 1864 Civil War cannon that has been a part of Tappahannock history for over one hundred years. Meet Cannon Restoration Project Co-chairmen, Bill Croxton, Joe Johnston and Gordon Harrower and restorer Randy Silvers, who will be answering questions about the restoration. There is also a display of ammunition that would have been used in the cannon, as well as an exhibit telling the story of the building of the twenty-seven feet high granite Essex Confederate Soldiers Monument in front of the courthouse that was dedicated with great fanfare in 1909 before a crowd of four thousand people. Along with the cannon exhibit in the Essex Gallery is a model of Fort Lowry on the Rappahannock and the “Confederate Essex” exhibit which details events of 1863, as part of the Virginia Civil War Sesquicentennial Commemoration.

 

Also featured at the opening will be author Susan Anthony-Tolbert. Susan’s passion for equestrian activities and her more recent interest in historical research was the perfect blend for the writing of her two books about Lucy long, Robert E. Lee’s Other Warhorse. The story of Lucy Long for Young Adults has been written for easy reading. “The Mare with Mysteries” contains more complete and detailed historical information. Susan will be available to talk about her books and sign copies.

 The gift shop will be open and decorated for Christmas. Light refreshments will be served. Open to the public, free of charge. Museum is located at 218 Water Lane in Tappahannock. Visit the website www.ecmhs.org.

Sethman, Ware and Wood Join ECMHS Board of Directors

The Museum and Historical Society Board of directors welcomes three new members: Barbara Sethmann, Helen Ware and C. Norman Wood.

 

Barbara Sethmann moved to Essex County in 2010 from the Charlottesville area.  A graduate of VCU in Art History and Museum Studies, she now resides in Dunnsville with her husband Roger. She is currently Senior Legal Editor for LexisNexis, Charlottesville office. She is also a member of: St. John’s Episcopal Church where she sings in the choir, The Henricopolis Chapter of the DAR, Albemarle Chapter UDC and has been serving as a volunteer docent and docent coordinator at the Museum.

 

Helen Ware worked as a CPA in Ocala Florida and became a corporate officer for Ocala Federal Savings and Loan Association in 1968. In 1981 she married Joseph L. Ware of Dunnsvile and worked with Mr. Ware at Ware Oil Company, Inc. She is a member of Rappahannock Christian Church in Dunnsville, where she has been a deaconess and deacon and currently serves as elder and trustee.  Mrs. Ware has been a member of the Women’s Club of Essex County since 1981 where she has held every office and served on various committees of the General Federation OF Women’s Clubs of Virginia. She served as co-chair with Frances Garrett for the fund-raising effort to build the Essex County Library and along with her husband, Joe, led the effort to construct, obtain the names and donated the Courthouse Green War Memorial. She also participates in Operation Inasmuch and has held offices in The Liberty Belles and The American Legion Auxiliary. 

 

C. Norman Wood, a graduate of The University of Texas, joined the Air Force and after attending Officer Training School became the first OTS graduate to become a brigadier general. In 1974, he served at the Pentagon including an assignment with the office of Air Force History. Until he retired in 1992, he served between Omaha Nebraska and Washington DC in many capacities including serving at the White House during Regan’s term. After retirement, he worked with a non-profit of over 130 worldwide chapters focused on information technology.

Suzanne Derieux, Board President, expressed her appreciation for the efforts of those long term board members: Gordon Harrower, Priscilla Vaughan and Louise Velletri who will be leaving the board but continuing their support as docents and advisors.

Decoys, decoys, decoys!

On Saturday, December 8, Larry Sisson, whose own collection of decoys is currently on display at the museum, was onsite to appraise antique decoys. The highest appraisal so far was $60,000. Come on down and see this fascinating event! The decoy pictured above was estimated to be worth several thousand dollars at a minimum. Amazing! This event runs until 4:00 this afternoon.                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Fall Gala Auction Items Now Online

Please peruse the following listing of wonderful items offered at the live and silent auctions as you prepare to attend the Essex Museum and Historical Society's annual Fall Gala. The Gala takes place on Saturday, September 29 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Wheatland. Tickets may be purchased at the museum or through the website. Many thanks to all our wonderful sponsors! All proceeds will go to support the museum and its many projects.

Live Auction Items with Auctioneer John Lawler

1. The Urbanna Experience. Stay overnight at the Chesapeake Inn in Urbanna as the guests of Angela St. Peter and John Milby. Urbanna’s Unique Boutique Hotel catering to the boater, business and leisure traveler. Not Valid for Oyster Festival weekend. Two night minimum stay required on holiday weekends. Cannot be combined with other promotional offers. Expires September, 2013. Check it out at www.TheCheasapeakeInn.com. Enjoy dinner for two at Café MoJo. Includes 1 appetizer, 2 entrees, 1 Dessert. Expires 8/17/2013 they are open Thursday – Saturdays. Visit them at Café-MoJo.com. Lastly arrive at the Cross Street Coffee for breakfast and coffee (your choice) for two. Expiration date: Sept.1, 2013. Visit them at www.CrossStreetCoffee.com. Value $260.

2. You pick the event, time and place for your own private “gig”. Talented local musician and performer Judy Hale will perform a private music event just for you. 2.5-3 hours in duration in a 50 mile radius. Performance theme/time/date to be coordinated with Judy. Certificate expires Sept. 1, 2013. Donated by Judy Haile. Value $200.

3. A week vacation at Wintergreen at 589 Three Ridges. Week exclusions: the two weeks at Christmas and Thanksgiving week. One bedroom condo. Sleeps two. Many ski weeks open! The winning bidder will coordinate their week with Sharon@historicproperties.com. The Wintergreen contact is Tammy Donnelly at 434-325-8512. Expires 9/30/2013. Donor: Sharon Hinson and www.historicproperties.com. Value $1900.

4. Be the guests of honor for dinner at the home of Billy and Carole Croxton and bring 7 of your friends! Your hosts for the evening will be friends and board members of the Museum and Historical Society. They will be there to prepare and serve a five course meal complete with entertainment and great conversation .Date and time will be coordinated with hosts Billy and Carole. The guests total is not to exceed eight adults. Expiration date: Sept. 29, 2013 Donated by Billy and Carole Croxton. Value Priceless

5. A Week at Virginia Beach. Only one block from the board walk. One Bedroom time share for the week of March 15th... Maximum occupancy is four. No pet policy.
Address: Atrium Resort 315 21st. Street Donors will pay the guest fee of 60.00.
Donated by: Robin Harmon and family. Value $1100.

6. A week long escape to the “Inn on Water Lane.” Luxury First floor one bedroom suite located in the Historic District of Tappahannock. Exquisitely furnished with WiFi and cable available, time period is Sunday to Sunday. A welcome basket of coupons will help you experience dining and touring as you explore Historic Essex County and the surrounding areas. To include: Dinner at the “Relish at Rivahside” for 2, Lunch at the “Rivahside Café,” Coupon for Romas Italian Restaurant, Tickets for two to tour the home at Robert E. Lee at Strafford Hall, Wine tasting for two at Belle Monte Vineyards with light refreshments (24 hour notification required), Guided Historic Walking Tour of Tappahannock (Call 804-443-4690 or go by the museum for scheduling). Visit www.theinnatwaterlane for more information. Expiration date Sept. 29, 2013. Donated by Billy and Carole Croxton and local attractions as listed. Value $1400.

7. Tour the Northern Neck from the air! Join pilot Harry T. Gladding for a 45 minute flight for two. Depart from Essex-Tappahannock airport. Certificate Expires 9/1/2013. Date will be coordinated based on availability.Donated by Harry T. Gladding. Value $150.

8. A three day weekend on the Potomac at Ria Casa. Good for a mutually convenient weekend in the spring of 2013 before Memorial Day weekend or fall of 2013 after Labor Day weekend. For photos go to www.riacasa.com. Donated by John and Joni Lawler jal@eastwestfinancial.com. Value $750.

Silent Auction Items

1. Print “Winter’s Splendor” on the Rappahannock. Richmond, Virginia Artist, Franklin A. Saye, has a passion to document the classic beauty of the Chesapeake. This, his 21st release depicts a fresh snowfall on a small cove near Urbanna, VA. This print is a “sold out” edition holding a secondary market value in 1991 of $ 400. This unframed print numbered 315/750 was donated by the original owner and purchased at ArtsLimited, a gallery in Richmond. sold out editions only available on the secondary market. Donated by John A. Vaughan 1991. value $400

2. A VIP event just for you!!! Wine tasting and reception for 6 at Ingleside Winery in Oak Grove. Ingleside is one of Virginia’s oldest and largest wineries producing over 18 varieties of wine. Your VIP treatment includes a signature goblet and a private wine and cheese reception. There is no expiration date; however Ingleside requests a two week notice for scheduling. Donated by Ingleside Vineyards: Doug Selmer. Value $60.

3. River Cocktail Cruise for 4 aboard the boat Connie’s Dream. Leaves from Tappahannock and cruises north. Cocktails and appetizers will be served. Expiration date 9/29//2013. Donated by Leigh and Debbie Angel. Value $150.

4. One hour Consultation for antiques /collectibles. Donated by Susan Appich Boze Appraisal –Action Resources LLC. Value $200.

5. Pianatank Golf Club certificate for a round of golf with cart for four. Donated by Piankatank Golf Club Hartville, Va. Value $200.

6. Gift certificate for two at the “Relish at Rivahside”” for dinner. Expires 9/29/2013.
Donated by Carol Mead Smith. Value $80.

7. The Essex Inn in downtown Tappahannock in the Historic District. Overnight stay
with breakfast. Call ahead. Date Based on availability. Donated by The Essex Inn; Innkeepers Bob and Janice McGee. Expiration: 9/30/2012. Value $169.

8. Framed print “The Dragon” by Artist Anne Beverley Eubank. Donated by Anne Beverley Eubank. Value $150.

9. Four Voice lessons given by Kelly Wright Music Director for TMUMC and music instructor for Richmond County Schools. Age 12 and older. 45 minutes each lesson. Lessons to be given at the home of Kelly. Time and dates to be coordinated with Kelly. Expiration: September, 2013. Donated by Kelly Wright kwright10@gmail.com. Value $150.

10. River Tour for six aboard the Friends of the Rappahannock’s boat with River Steward Richard Moncure. On board will be local Historian Howard Reisinger to help tell the river’s story from John Smith to current times. This cruise is for couples, friends or the family. The trip, lasting approx. three hours, will leave from Parkers Marina. On board refreshments. Date and time for the cruise will be coordinated by “Friends of the Rappahannock.” Expiration: September, 2013. Donated by Friends of the Rappahannock info@riverfriends.org. www.rivefriends.org. Value $150.

11. This special package includes overnight accommodations at Stratford Hall; home of the Lees of Virginia and the Birthplace of Robert E. Lee and a tour of the Great House (circa 1738.) This historic site includes 1900 beautiful acres, dining, and a gift shop. Donated by Stratford Hall Plantation. Value $145.

12. Four Guitar Lessons given by local talented Musician Rob Wright. Age 11 and older. Each lesson to be 45 minutes. Lessons to be given at the home of Rob. Coordination of time with Rob. Certificate expires on Sept.1, 2013. Donated by Rob Wright Robwright1999@gmail.com 804-938-8474. Value $100.

13. Three piece set of Brighton Jewelry. Black Earrings for pierced ears. Matching necklace and bracelet in black. Donated by T Town Tack Jo Lynn Gibson-Farmer. Value $140.

14. Framed limited edition print “ Chesapeake Bay Lighthouse” Artist David Jett.
Donated by David Jett. Value $150.

15. Neuromuscular Therapy Massage Therapist Call for appointment Expiration 9/30/2013. Donated by Alessa Lemming. Value $60.

16. Framed water color original ” Osprey Feather’ artist Anne Careatti. Donated by Anne Careatti. Value $385.

17. Weekend Getaway at the “Lee Jackson” Suite. Historic Lancaster Tavern bed and Breakfast was built in 1790 and served as a stopping place for those coming to the courthouse and is located across from the Mary Ball Museum. Excellent location for day trip exploring Historic Lancaster County and the Northern Neck, take the cruise to Tangier or Smith Island or just relax with a good book. The Inn serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Donated by The Lancaster Inn, Brenda Lee Jackson, Owner. Value $350.

18. Handmade Russian spiral necklace and matching bracelet. Black bugle beads along with black and blue seed beads appear to spin in this unusual rope design. Donated by Allison Vaughn babastheives@hotmail.com. Value $150.

19. Framed Print “Civil War Vessels on the Rappahannock” Artist Anne Careatti. Donated by Anne Careatti. Value $100.

20. River Fitness 3- month short term membership Fitness and Aquatics. Tappahannock, VA 804-443-0500 Try it to see if you like it! Expires 9/30/2013. For more information, Visit www.RiverFitnessCenter.com. Donated by “River Fitness.” Value $220.

21. HAIL TO THE REDSKINS! Two Redskins Tickets for the Ravens VS Skins game. Dec. 9th 2012 at 1:00PM. Lower level. Donated by Leigh and Debbie Angel. Value $200.

22. Framed watercolor print. Contemporary print featuring poppies in a meadow. Donated by The Crying Shame. Value $250.

Crystal Bowl Raffle Table

Lastly, we will be featuring a Crystal Bowl Raffle Table. Sleeves of tickets (10) will be sold from 4-6:00. The cost for a sleeve will be $20.00 The bowls will be drawn at 6:00. You must be present to win. If the number drawn is not present a new ticket will be drawn.

• Pet bed filled with items for your pets (dogs and cats). Animal Treats/flea treatment/ grooming tools and more. Donated by Tappahannock Veterinary Clinic. Value $75.

• Glass game set to include chess/checkers/backgammon. Donated by a museum Docent. Value $20.

• Matrix Biolage Hair Care travel set and a Manicure. Donated by Hair Styles by Robin and The Perfect Ten. Value $45.

• Set of Three decorative handmade hooks with handmade nails. Donated By John Careatti. Value $90.

• SKIL 12 V Drill Comes with two batteries, 33 piece driver bit set, Variable speed trigger. Compact and lightweight Case included. Donated By Lowes of Tappahannock.
Value $60.

• Basket “Go to the Movies” Six Passes to the local theater. Three Movies for home, lots of snacks. Movie passes donated by Scott Cleaton. Value $65.

• Silver Interior Wash and Sheetz gas card. Donated by River Wash and Sheetz. Value $ 74.

• Beautiful glass cheese dome hand painted by Lois Lavery. Dome sits atop a pewter plate with stainless steel implements and can be used to serve a variety of foods. Donated by The Gift Gallery Value $44.

• Crab Bag Crab utensils for four. Include Mallets, stainless steel cups, napkins and nets. Donated by Museum Docent. Value $20.

• Two Prints by Artist Anne Careatti. Ships on the Rappahannock. Donated by Anne Careatti. Value $40

• Basket fun for kids. Toys donated by the Museum “Docents”, including a ‘vintage Craftsman kids tool set’ from Ernest at Sears. Value $85.

• Red Glass hanging birdfeeder. Donated by Southern States. Value $20.

• Vera Bradley Purse. Chain bag/ Plum Petals. Donated by Amy Brizendine and Jennie Beck; Riverside Accents and Gifts. Value $78.

• Punch pliers and eyelet set, Mag Light, Three Fishing lures packs of 2. Donated by Tractor Supply Company. Value $40.

• Wine Basket. Cinsaut, a French Rose’ and a French Bordeaux, with gourmet extras.
Donated by Karen Hayes and Deborah Stevens: All About Wine. Value $65.

• Earrings: Beautiful Hand Crafted Amazonite Leaf Drops. Sterling and gold filled wire wrapping. Donated by “Allison” babastheives@gmail.com. Value $50.

• Certificate for home made pound cake. Coordinate order with Dorothy Gladding. Donated by Dorothy Gladding. Value $35.

• Basket “It’s a New Born Baby Boy” Large basket containing many items for those first three months. Onesies, sleepers, blankets, a coming home outfit for the “Little Brother”, toys and more! Donated by “My Three Grandsons." Value $100.

2012 Fall Gala Sponsorship

Sponsorship Levels: $1000 Event Sponsors $500 Event Supporter

$250 Event Promoter $100 Event friend

Event Supporters:

Ronald L. Geiger, LLC

Rappahannock Electric Cooperative

William H. Washington, McDonalds

Event Promoters:

Alexander Dillard Jr., Fleet Dillard, Scott Katona Attorneys at law

Garrett’s Marina

Priscilla Vaughan Enterprises

Event Friends:

Gregory Packett

Edward Jones Investing/ Jack Snyder Financial Advisor

Raymond Grimes CPA

Hughes and Basye Accounting Services

Northern Neck Generators; Mr. Todd Sanders

Riverland Insurers

Alison B. Robeson, DDS

Tappahannock-Warsaw Women of the Moose

Leslie Taylor CPA, PC

Donors:

Elliott’s Tires and Auto Service

Dr. Beth L. Faber, Orthodontist

John and Barbara Frazier

War of 1812 Exhibit Opening on July 27

Please join the Essex County Museum and Historical Society for the unveiling of its new exhibit "Proving Ground for Freedom: The War of 1812 in Essex and the Rappahannock." This exhibit opens in the Carl D. Silver Gallery on Friday, July 27. A special reception with hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be held at the museum from 4:00-6:00 pm on Friday, July 27.

The War of 1812 exhibit will run through July of 2013. It details the British attach on Tappahannock in December 1814 and features a British cannonball that was fired on the town, as well as weapons and uniforms representing sailors, soldiers and frontier fighters of the time. In addition, the museum is introducing its first multi-media presentation as part of the exhibit.

Join us for our Fall Gala!

The Essex County Museum and Historical Society will host its Fall Gala at Wheatland’s Historic Saunders Wharf September 29th, from 4pm to 7pm. Music, great food, choice of beverages and a wide range of items and exciting adventures will be waiting just for you via raffles, silent and live auction opportunities. All inclusive tickets will be $35.00 per person. Reservations can be made by contacting the museum at 804-443-4690 or visiting our website at www.ecmhs.org.


A complete list of items to be featured on the tables and in the auctions and participation guidelines will be posted on line prior to the event. Mark your calendars for this exciting event!

Upcoming Reading by Two Local Authors

On Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 2:00-4:00 pm, the museum welcomes two of Essex County's distinguished authors for a reading. Marty Glenn Taylor and Sarah Honenberger will be at the Essex County Museum to do an afternoon reading. Each author will read from their latest book in progress.

The event is free of charge and a reception will follow the reading. Their books“Catcher Caught," by Honenberger, and “The River Me,” by Taylor, will be available for purchase and signing. Or, feel free to bring your own copies!

The museum is located at 218 Water Lane in Tappahannock.

St. Margaret's to Host Civil War Speaker

St. Margaret's School is hosting a free lecture on Friday, February 24 by one of the nation's preeminent civil war historians, James I. "Bud" Robertson Jr. Mr. Robertson, a longtime history professor at Virginia Tech, will speak at 7 pm in the Ball Memorial Gymnasium located at 612 Water Lane in Tappahannock. Robertson is the author of more than 20 books on the Civil War and his latest book will be available for purchase and signing at the lecture. Robertson taught for 43 years at Virginia Tech and retired last year to the Northern Neck. For more information on the lecture, contact Dale Harter at 804-443-3357.

The Museum Celebrates Black History Month

A new exhibit explores the history of the Mark-Haven Beach resort and its proprietor, Reginald (R.A.) Markham. A significant contributor to the quality of Essex County life as a businessman, developer and civic leader, Mr. Markham was born on Long Island, New York in 1910 and educated in New York City. He moved to Tappahannock in 1937 and created the Mark-Haven Beach resort on the Rappahannock River. Built during the time of racial segregation, the popular resort near Center Cross featured a three-story lodge with 18 bedrooms. Surrounding cabins with private baths and screened porches provided an additional 16 rooms. A restaurant with a banquet room served seafood fresh from the Rappahannock and vegetables grown right on the grounds. Mark-Haven Beach was frequently filled to capacity on weekends and holidays. The Markhams ran the resort for more than 30 years and sold the property in 1970. A street in the town of Tappahannock, Markham Terrace, is named after R.A. Markham.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with the Essex County Museum!

The Museum Gift Shop celebrates Valentine's Day with the arrival of the Crab Cookie! (See left). Pick up a crab cookie and view the latest exhibit featuring the life of Sidney King and 15 of Herb Collins' collection of Sidney King originals.

The gift shop has many items discounted at 15%, 20% and 50%. Enjoy big savings on a wide range of children's books, historic toys, pottery and glassware!

2012 High Tea Luncheon Scheduled

Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 10, 2012! The Essex County Museum and Historical Society will be hosting a High Tea luncheon at St. Margaret's Dining Hall in Tappahannock, VA. The tea will be catered and served with all the trimmings by the Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Ensemble from Fredericksburg, VA. The Ensemble will also put on a series of vignettes depicting noted people from 1770s Tappahannock and Fredericksburg.

Door prizes will also be offered! Since space is limited, please purchase your tickets in advance. The cost is $38 per person and reservations can be made by contacting the museum by phone at (804) 443-4690 or email your reservation request to admin@ecmhs.org. Checks can be made payable to ECMHS and can be mailed to P.O. Box 404 Tappahannock, VA 22560, Att: High Tea.

Sidney King Collection Highlights

The current exhibit at the Essex Museum featuring the work of Sidney E King can now be previewed online - click here to see some of the highlights but better still, stop by the museum to see the wonderful work our Curator David Jett has accomplished putting this exhibit together.

New Exhibit Opens at the Museum!

On Saturday, October 29 the new exhibit "A Brush with History: Paintings by Sidney King from the Collection of Herbert R. Collins" opened at the museum. Many Essex County residents have fond memories of Mr. King, who taught painting and produced murals and painting of varied subjects from portraits to still life.

Pictured here with board members Joe Johnston (center) and Lloyd Huckstep (right), Herb Collins shares the history of his fifteen Sidney King original paintings. Thirty people braved the bad weather to visit the exhibit on its opening day.

Pictured below, Herb Collins shares the story of "The Ice House." The exhibit opening coincided with the holiday shopping gift shop open house. "Maybe Christmas decorations are out a little early, but there are so many new and unique items in the shop that we just couldn't wait," said Priscilla Vaughan, Gift Shop Manager. "We have 'near' local honey in quarts, pints and half pints along with honey dippers. We also have Gloucester peanuts, local art on recycled wood, local artist selections of note cards, some unique Christmas gift cards and hand cut paper boxes. Everything will be on sale until January 1, 2012. The sale includes 25% savings on historic toys and 15% off painted glassware and pottery. I have also loaded our shopping season 50% off table with some great finds and will constantly be putting new items on the table as space allows.

Shoppers who are also members of the museum can receive an additional 10% off everything except the items on the 50% savings table. The museum accepts credit cards and gift certificates are available.

Civil War tour at Gaines' Mill battlefield

October 22, 2011 - Twenty five members of he Essex County Museum and Historical Society took the Valentine Museum Civil War Sampler tour of Richmond and surrounding area, finishing the day at Gaines' Mill and Cold Harbor battlefield sites. The five hour tour included sites in Church Hill, Shockoe Bottom, Court End, the canal area, Hollywood Cemetary, Monument Avenue, Tredegar Iron Works and the battlefields of Cold Harbor and Gaines Mill. Many thanks for Kevin Dolan for heading up the organization of this trip and Priscilla Vaughan for her boundless support. For more photos click here

Pancake Breakfast to Benefit the Museum

The Essex County Museum and Historical Society is hosting a pancake breakfast at Applebees in Tappahannock on Saturday, November 5 from 7:30-9:30.

Tickets are $5 in advance and $6 at the door. All proceeds go to support the museum. Tickets are available from the museum or from any board member.

This is the same day as the Urbanna Oyster Festival, so bring your family to Applebees for a good, hardy breakfast before heading to Urbanna for the festival!