Links & Resources
1-888-CIVIL WAR
Madison County was the site of two Civil War battles that have been chosen for inclusion in the Virginia Civil War Trails program. These are the James City Battlefield on Rt. 29, just south of the Culpeper-Madison County boundary line, and the Jack's Shop Battlefield located on Scenic Byway Rt. 231 at Rochelle. In addition, the old Blue Ridge Turnpike (most of the Scenic Byway follows this road) runs through Madison County and was the route General Jackson and his forces often took to travel to and from the Shenandoah Valley. Some of the towns along this route still preserve the areas that were used as campsites by Jackson's men. James City Confederate Major General J.E.B. Stuart left his encampment in Madison on October 10, 1863, traveled north to James City where he engaged Union Generals Kilpatrick and French at the historic crossroads town. Jack's Shop On September 22, 1863, J.E.B. Stuart left his headquarters at the Brampton estate in Orange County. As he moved toward Madison, he encountered two Union divisions under the commands of General John Burford and General Judson Kilpatrick that nearly surrounded him. This battle saw Stuart's Horse Artillery used effectively and a strategic plan by Stuart to withdraw southwards towards Liberty Mills, a ford on the Rapidan guarded by more Confederate forces. For more information, check www.civilwar-va.com or call 1-888-CIVIL WAR. Civil War Tour Package – Madison County Madison County was a focal point for several critical events during our Civil War including the Battle of Jack’s Shop, September 22, 1863, a very significant Cavalry Engagement, and the Battle of James City on October 10, 5407 Ridge View B&B offers you the opportunity to both learn about the extensive roll Madison County played in the Civil War and to enjoy this experience while staying at one of the finest Bed and Breakfasts in Virginia. When you arrive at Ridge View B&B you will enjoy some cheese, fruit, crackers, some fine Virginia Wine and then partake in a delightful 3 course casual dinner for two. Don’t forget to ask your hosts about any Civil War History associated with Ridge View. On Wednesday morning your adventure begins with a fulfilling breakfast. Then journey to the Ridge View B&B in Madison County to link up with your tour guide. Harold Woodward, renowned Madison County Historian and Author, who will then take you on a 5-6 hour guided tour that will cover the events and landmarks leading up to, during and following the Battle of Jack’s Shop. While on your tour you will enjoy a box lunch specially prepared for you and then return to another social event that evening at Mayhurst. Follow this with Dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in the area. On Thursday morning, after another excellent breakfast, you will again meet your tour guide for another full day of visiting locations such as the Confederate Hospitals associated with the Battle of Cedar Mountain, General Stuart’s HQ at Brampton Plantation and explore and learn about the Battle of James City in October, 1863. As on your first day, a box lunch will be provided. This evening you will, after another social hour, enjoy a Gourmet 5 Course Wine Pairing dinner at the famed Inn at Meander Plantation. As part of this evening’s “entertainment” there will be a presentation on additional Civil War topics by an expert on the era. After a final bounteous breakfast the next morning you will receive a Self-Guided Driving Tour Packet with information about other nearby Civil War sites including the Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum in Gordonsville, VA and other nearby Civil War sites. Additional Tours are also available – just ask your Innkeeper. This Package Includes: 3 nights (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) B&B accommodations for two 3 full breakfasts Wine, Cheese, Fruit and Snacks each evening Casual 3 Course Dinner the night you arrive Guided Civil War Tour ( two days) of major conflicts and sites specific to Madison and Green Counties by Harold Woodward (Renowned Historian and Author) Gourmet Wine Pairing Dinner at the famous Inn at Meander Plantation on Thursday evening with presentation of additional Civil War information 4 box lunches (2 each Wednesday and Thursday) Historical write-ups from each Inns at Montpelier Member B&B Signed copy of Harold Woodward’s book on the Battle of Jack’s Shop Commemorative envelope with special Civil War Post Mark All Applicable Taxes Maps and Handouts Minimum 15 day advanced booking required. Room selection subject to availability. Price is all inclusive and includes all taxes. Price does NOT include gratuities. Please contact any of the Inns of Montpelier http://www.innsatmontpelier.com to book this package, Ridge View B&B can be contacted at 540-672-7024, or 866-852-4266. Civil War Tour – Orange and Culpeper Counties 2011 is the 150th Anniversary of our Civil War. We offer you an opportunity to gain insights into those turbulent times with a 3 day, 3 night unique Civil War experience that includes guided Tours, luxurious accommodations, superior dining and lots of personal attention and pampering. Your experience begins on Sunday evening at when you will learn about the Civil War history of Mayhurst while you enjoy cheese, fruit, crackers and some fine Virginia Wine. Then partake in a casual dinner. On Monday take a Civil War Walking Tour of Historic Culpeper, VA guided by Virginia Morton, Historian and author of the Civil War Novel, "Walking through Culpeper". On Tuesday you are off on a day long Civil War tour with another professional guide. Then enjoy a Civil War Period Dinner at the famed Inn at Meander Plantation. On Wednesday you will receive a Self-Guided Driving Tour Packet with information about other nearby Civil War sites or you can schedule additional day long tours & accommodations. Package Includes: Three nights (Sunday - Tuesday) in a beautiful guestroom Evening Receptions Full breakfasts each morning Casual Dinner for two Sunday evening Culpeper Civil War Historical Walking Tour with Virginia Morton on Monday Lunch Basket for 2 on Tuesday Civil War Period Dinner at the Inn at Meander Plantation on Tuesday Evening Self-Guided Driving Tour Packet with information about other nearby Civil War sites, including Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg and The Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum in Gordonsville Signed copies of Historian and Author Frank Walker’s “Remembering Orange County” and Virginia Morton’s acclaimed novel “Walking Through Culpeper” All applicable Taxes. Historical write-up about each Inns at Montpelier Member B&B. Minimum 15 day advanced booking required. Room selection subject to availability.
The Eagle House: Originally a tavern, this house was constructed in the latter part of the 1700's and was known as the Washington Tavern and Carpenter's Tavern. A beautiful walnut bar still graces the English basement. After 1877, the house became a private residence and still serves that function.
Was established in 1726 and the building predates 1740 although completed as one sees it today by 1766 minus the front portico.
The Graves Mill Historical Park, an official Virginia Cultural Historical Site, offers a glimpse into the past commemorating the significance and history of the Village of Graves Mill. Within the Park is located a stone memorial and bronze plaque paying tribute to those 40 brave men from the community that served Virginia prior to and during the War Between The States. Also within the Park is a replica of the community’s intimate 1900’s post office building containing original post office furniture. Finally, a bronze plaque provides some of the earliest history of Graves Mill and the surrounding area. The Park was created as a result of the community’s participation within the national and worldwide Jamestown 2007 Community Program honoring the 400th Anniversary of our country. The directors of the Jamestown 2007 Community Program presented to Graves Mill, the Virginia 2007 Community Program—‘Legacy for 2057 Award', at the Jamestown Museum Awards Ceremony in March of 2008. The award was for the creation of the Graves Mill Historical Park and because of the contributions the community made towards the Jamestown 2007 Community Program. The Graves Mill Historical Park is located at 52 Bluff Mountain Road, Graves Mill, Virginia near the Shenandoah National Park boundary and the Virginia Game Commission property's.
(540) 948-4455
In addition, the Madison Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center offers a wide variety of brochures and maps to help plan outdoor activities.
This brick structure was built in 1829-30, replacing a log building of 1793. The federal brick work has been declared some of the finest in America. It is also an historic landmark with a plaque describing the history behind the building.
Also known as the Thomas W. Lewis House, this structure was built in 1852. In addition to serving as a home for the Lewis family, the building was also used as a Methodist Parsonage. In 1967 it was renovated to serve as the county's library.
www.manorhousebdrfarm.com
Manor House @ BDR Farm, LLC The Manor House is a spacious 1896 farmhouse located at 624 Graves Mill Road in beautiful Madison, Virginia. The Manor House @ BDR Farm provides beautiful, historic country charm, offering accommodations and outdoor event space, to make memorable gatherings for family and friends. The farmhouse has been lovingly renovated for our guests’ exclusive enjoyment. The Manor House is situated on a working cattle farm of 200 acres of rolling pastures and mountains. We are conveniently located only 4 miles from Early Mountain Vineyards, 8 miles from Bald Top Brewery and 16 miles from Woodberry Forest School. The Manor House is a 3,700 sq ft historic home with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. The Manor House sleeps 12 comfortably. There’s a large eat-in kitchen, a formal dining room that seats 12 with 2 sliding glass doors opening to the 700 sq ft Bluestone patio. We have a large, formal living room. a sizable, comfortable Parlor/TV room as well as an upstairs Game Room. Two beautiful staircases lead upstairs with lovely hardwood floors throughout. There is ample parking for guests. Historic black walnut trees grace the entrance of Manor House @ the BDR Farm. As a working cattle farm, our Black Angus cows will greet you in the pastures. Our 2 donkeys love to be fed carrots. Hiking paths on the property lead to watering holes, the pond and the mountains. The front porch is perfect for relaxing with a friend over a glass of wine. The backyard features a gorgeous large stone patio and fire pit. The backyard is nearly an acre of flat open space overlooking the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The mountain views are spectacular. www.manorhousebdrfarm.com
Home of James Lawson Kemper, one of central Virginia's most prominent attorneys and politicians. He moved here with his family in 1865. Kemper represented Madison in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1853-1863, serving as Speaker for the final term, fought in the Mexican War, held the rank of Major General in the Confederate Army, and was badly wounded in Pickett's Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg. Kemper served as the first southern-born post Reconstruction governor of Virginia from 1874-1878.
Madison County Visitor Center & Chamber of Commerce
110 N Main Street
Madison, VA 22727
(540) 948-4455
[email protected]
Tourism and Economic Development Director
Tracey W. Gardner
(540) 948-7560
[email protected]