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.