Yesterday, I took off for the day and made my way to Orange, Virginia. If you  have been following the blog, you know that Montpelier and the James Madison Museum are located here. I had read on Facebook that the James Madison Museum was going to have a new exhibition opening on July 7th and in this exhibition was something I would be interested in.

Before I went to the museum, I decided to stop off at Montpelier to meet Matt, the head of the Archeaology Department. I have wanted to meet him for some time now and being in the middle of the week, I knew this might be my only chance. As most of you have read, we have had some really great “finds” lately and I wanted to get his opinion on them.

The first piece I showed was our two plate pieces. I had gotten a date from Mara at Ferry Farm that this was from the time period of 1740-1755. Matt confirmed that it was. This really makes me excited because when we first started researching Belle Grove, we were told that the house that James Madison was born in had long ago disappeared into the river. We later heard that the foundation was located between the house and the current bridge. We recently read a letter from the early 1900s that placed it between the current house and the church. But by finding items that date to this time period it shows that there was active life here near the house from that period. It also gives some credibility to the foundations we have under the Small Dining Room and behind the Garage. Maybe one day we can fund a dig there!

He also answered my question on a second piece. It was a very badly rusted piece of metal that I thought might be a knife. Matt says it looks more like a barrel ring. It came from the same hole as the plate. Maybe we have a small trash pit here! We will have to see!

After my talk with Matt, I headed back into Orange and to the James Madison Museum. I couldn’t wait to see what I came to see!

The James Madison Museum

Orange, Virginia

http://www.thejamesmadisonmuseum.org

Bethany greeted me at the door with a warm smile and hug. Then she ushered me back to the new display.

Here before me stood three Virginia Sectional Sofas. The first one was the Salubria Sofa from Culpeper, Virginia. It had been in a home built by the Reverend John Thompson in 1757. Robert Grayson purchased it in 1851. His mother, Sara Mason Cooke Grayson was the granddaughter of George Mason of  Gunston Hall. (Funny how places we go and people we learn about here in Virginia seem to connect together) Robert Grayson was with the 6th Virginia Calvary during the Civil War and his brother, John Cooke Grayson was a surgeon in Farmville, Virginia Hospital. Robert Grayson’s son, Admiral Cary T. Grayson would serve as personal physician to President Woodrow Wilson. It is currently owned by the Memorial Foundation of Germanna Colonies in Virginia and was donated to this foundation by the Grayson family in October 2000. It is currently on loan for a short time to the James Madison Museum by the owner and descendant of Admiral Cary T. Grayson.

The second sofa to greet me was the Port Royal Sofa. This Sectional Sofa from Virginia was made between 1825 and 1840 and is thought to have begun its life in Warsaw, Virginia (just 30 minutes from Belle Grove Plantation) at the Mount Airy Plantation. It is known that it came to Port Royal (across the river from Belle Grove Plantation) in 1911 when Courtneyay Tayloe Crump married Richard Pratt of Camden Plantation in Port Royal. It has been almost two years since I last spoke of Camden, but I had the opportunity to view it in January 2012. This family is connected to Belle Grove through Elizabeth Pratt Hipkins (mother of Fanny Hipkins Bernard, who the main section of Belle Grove’s Mansion was built for in 1791) and Carolinus Turner, whose family married into the Pratt Family. This sofa spent much of its time at the foot of a bed at Camden. This sofa, unlike the other two in the exhibit, is held together with a simple latch to allow it to be used as a day bed. This sofa remained in the Pratt Family until 2007. Today it is on loan from Laura and Hal Stuart.

The last sofa was the one I came to see!

The Conway Settee is entirely original and unupholstered. It is believed that it was crafted and/or shipped in/from Falmouth, Virginia. (20 miles north of Belle Grove Plantation). It was shipped to Mrs. Lucy Conway on October 18, 1848. Lucy Hartwell Macon Conway was married to Reuben Conway during James Madison’s second term as President Jefferson’s Secretary of State. Her mother was Sara Madison Catlett and was James Madison’s sister. Reuben Conway was the son of Catlett Conway. Nelly Conway Madison, mother of James Madison was Reuben’s aunt. The settee is made entirely of yellow pine. They used animal blood based paint on the exposed wood to simulate mahogany. The frame is pegged and it has a slatted wood base. The upper upholstery is a heavy Osnaburgh linen. There is no evidence of casters ever being affixed to it. It has a deep seat box and a simple turned leg with original button-down covering tacked to the frame. On each of the sectional you can see Lucy’s name. This settee is a gift from the Orange County Historical Society.

I have to say I was in awe at this piece! How exciting to see a piece of Conway Family History! 

While I was there, I also saw a very wonderful colonial table. I have seen many card tables in our search for tables for Belle Grove, but this one was very unique.

The top of the table rotates around!

Then opens up and lays on top of the frame!

This table dates to the 17oos and may have been made by slaves. It was on the farm of James B. Daniel , known as “Grandpa Jim”. Mr. Daniel ran the Post Office in the community that was named for him, “Daniel” Virginia. The family used this table for generations until it was donated to the museum. It was a gift from William Downer in 1986.

To see more of Belle Grove and its History

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Today, I took a break from the tolls of working on my website (sorry Adam) to have an Afternoon Tea with a dear friend at Pinkadilly Tea House in Fredericksburg. I have been there before and written a blog about it, but the first time we only did lunch. Today it was the whole enchilada… okay the whole pot of tea!

http://www.pinkadillytea.com/

I just love that when you come to the Tea House, your tea cup is always different.

That is one thing I will be doing at our house for our teas!

We filled our tea cups today with Earl Grey Tea, one of my favorites!

Our first course was soup and Quiche.

Crab Soup (which is to die for!) and Ham, Asparagus, White Cheddar and Provolone Cheese Quiche!

Our second course  arrived stacked beautifully before us!

Our Scones with Lemon Curd and Devonshire Cream were:

Vanilla

Cinnamon Raisin

Our Tea Sandwiches were:

Feta and Almond Spread on a Toasted Baguette

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry

Chicken Salad

Cucumber Salad

Our Desserts were:

Chocolate Truffles

Pindadilly Pieshots

Orange Brownies

Blueberry Cheesecake Cups

Each Course was Heavenly!

If you are ever in Fredericksburg, you must call and get a reservation at this wonderful Tea House!

http://www.pinkadillytea.com/

Also be on the look out for a special announcement coming soon!

If you love Afternoon Tea and you are 8 year old or older

You don’t want to miss this announcement!

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Please Share us with your Friends!

Here is a new recipe to make your stomach growl…

French Toast with Caramelized Cinnamon Orange Sugar with Orange Marmalade Syrup

It is a wonderful twist on french toast with layers of favors.

Hope you enjoy!

Ingredients

1 loaf of French Bread (you could use Challah Bread too), slice on the bias (at an angle)

1/3 Cups Sugar

1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon

Zest from one large Orange

1 Cup Maple Syrup

1/4 Orange Marmalade

9 eggs

3 Tablespoons Heavy Cream

1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 Cup Maple Syrup

1/4 Cup Orange Marmalade

Butter or non-stick spray

Directions

Heat Griddle or non-stick pan.

Mix Sugar, 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon and zest in small bowl.

 Set aside. Mix eggs, heavy cream, 3 Tablespoons ground cinnamon and vanilla in a wide dish (I use a deep dish pie dish). Set aside. In a microwave safe dish, mix 1 cup of maple syrup and orange marmalade. Microwave 30 seconds at a time until warm. Don’t over heat. Stir and set aside.

Coat griddle or pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dip slice in egg mixture and flip. Before you remove it, sprinkle the top with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Remove and place sugar side down on the pan or griddle. Repeat to fill pan or griddle. Watch closely. When the sugar caramelizes and side is golden brown, flip and brown the other side. Remove and repeat.

Serve with warm Maple and Orange Marmalade Syrup.

To see more food we will offer at Belle Grove

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Don’t forget to get your Cookie Recipe Submitted!

Deadline is just 17 Days away!

Click on James Madison to find out how to enter!

No Entry Fee!

Please Consider Donating to our “Restoration Fund” 

to help us restore our 1700-1800 outbuildings!

Last January, we opened up

an “Official Cookie of Belle Grove Plantation” Cookie Contest.

Sadly, we ended up pulling the contest before we could really get going.

But starting March 1st, we are opening the Cookie Contest again!

So get your best Cookie Recipe ready! More detail will follow in the coming days!

Just to get your creative juices flowing, if not you stomach growling…

Here is one of the recipes we received and will consider during this contest! 

Cranberry Orange Walnut Shortbread Cookies

(Based on the Cranberry Shortbread recipe from Ocean Spray)

This recipe comes from the following blogger:

Julia, Julie and I – the Joy of Cooking Rediscovered

 http://njbrown.wordpress.com/

Makes approximately 4 dozen

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour
• 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 generous tablespoon grated orange zest

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 325°F.
• Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the flour, a little at a time, until combined.
• Stir in dried cranberries, zest and walnuts.

Cookies can be made into balls or flattened. To make round cookies, roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place 1 dozen at a time on ungreased cookie sheets.

• Bake 15 to 17 minutes
• Cool

To make flat cookies, form dough into 1-inch balls as directed above. Using the wet bottom of a glass dipped in granulated sugar; flatten balls on cookie sheet, making rounds 2-inches in diameter.

• Bake 12 to 14 minutes
• Cool

To see more food from Belle Grove Plantation

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Elmwood at Sparks

After we arrived at Holladay House Inn, we knew where we wanted to get dinner. In October we had come to Orange, Virginia to celebrate our anniversary and had eaten at Elmwood at Sparks Restaurant. So we knew how good it was and looked forward to another great meal.

Just as before, we made last minute reservations through our bed and breakfast, Holladay House Inn. With little notice, we were able to get in within minutes, even though they were very busy. We are even able to sit at our original table as we had for our anniversary. We were greeted by the waitress that helped us before and remembering her name I greeted her with it. She was surprised that I remembered. I have to say our last visit had been such a wonderful delight that it wasn’t hard to recall those that made it so good. Kristen got our drinks and allowed us time to read over the menu.

Kristen
Elmwood at Sparks

We quickly knew just want we wanted. I ordered a starter of Shrimp and Parmesan Grits with Shallots, Herbs, Tomatoes and Chardonnay Butter, which I enjoyed the last time I came and a Filet Mignon with Wild Mushroom Risotto and Roasted Vegetables. Brett ordered the Creamy Mushrooms and Penna Pasta Roasted Red Peppers, Parmesan, Belchamel, Basil Pesto and Toasted Pine Nuts which he had the last time as well.

Shrimp and Parmesan Grits with Shallots, Herbs, Tomatoes and Chardonnay Butter

Filet Mignon with Wild Mushroom Risotto and Roasted Vegetables

Creamy Mushrooms and Penna Pasta Roasted Red Peppers, Parmesan, Belchamel, Basil Pesto and Toasted Pine Nuts

As we waited for our starter, the Chef Cooper peeked out from behind the counter which was very close to our table and asked us how our Bed and Breakfast was coming. We were very surprised since we had only been there once before and were not local residence or business. How wonderful that he remembered!

The food was out of this world as it had been before. After we finished we ordered a single dessert of Crepes with Maple Butter Sauce and Pumpkin Ice Cream. As we finished, we spoke to Kristen and enjoyed the very special customer service she offered. We left wishing that they were closer to us so we could enjoy their wonderful food, gracious customer service and warm atmosphere more often.

Crepes with Maple Butter Sauce and Pumpkin Ice Cream

The Sparks Building is a historic two and one half story Federal period commercial and domestic building that was built around 1830 for James Forbes. There has been some exterior alterations with include the construction of modern store front; the Sparks Building still retains much of its original material. The Sparks Butchery & Deli was located on the west side of the building in 1902.

When Chef Randy Cooper opened Elmwood at Sparks, the cafe had formerly offered a deli menu. Executive Chef Randy Cooper was trained in classical French and New American cuisine at Johnson & Wales University. Over the past fourteen years Chef Cooper has worked in many prestigious restaurants including Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado as Chef de Tourant; Boar’s Hear Inn as Chef de Cuisine; Ivy Inn as Sous Chef; Glenmore Country Club as the Fine Dining Chef, and most recently, as the Executive Chef of the Grille at Prince Michel Vineyards, receiving the coveted Four Diamond AAA rating.

Looking for those who are dedicated to natural and sustainable farming and seeking the best of local ingredients, Chef Cooper has quickly made Elmwood at Sparks a local favorite. Using his southern heritage along with his training, Chef Cooper will frequently change his menu to reflect the season and availability. Chef Cooper also showcases his ability to sift from a casual lunch stop to a fine dining restaurant in the evening. It is the evening menu that Chef Cooper culinary skills shine.

www.elmwoodcatering.com

Whether Chef Cooper is offering a lunch menu, dinner menu or a catered event, according to his web site he stands by his philosophy that “It’s all about the food – whether customers want to grab a quick sandwich to take back to the office or dine here. Using the best products, I use my menu to offer quality dishes.”

www.holladayhousebandb.com

On Saturday, after we finished with our meeting at Belle Grove, we traveled to Orange, Virginia to stay the night at one of the wonderful bed and breakfast inns. This time we selected to stay at the Holiday House Inn on Caroline Street.

One of the earliest known photographs of West Main Street in Orange, VA (circa 1895), includes the Holladay House.

The land that the Holladay House Inn now stands on was part of an 18^th century farm owned by William Bell. This property, which includes much of the modern day Town of Orange, was purchased in 1799 by Paul Verdier. It was Paul Verdier who would divide the farm into town lots. This layout still survives largely intact today.

The Federal style brick structure that is now Holladay House Bed and Breakfast was constructed in the early 1830’s and was the home of Hugh Stephens. In 1834, Stephens sold the property to a local merchant named Mann A. Page and his wife, Mary C. Willis Page. Mary Champe Willis Page was a descendant of the Washington Family. Her Great Grandmother was Mildred Washington, daughter of Captain Lawrence Washington and Mildred Warner Washington. Her Great Grandmother Mildred Washington’s brother, Captain Lawrence A. Washington was Grandfather of George Washington. One note on Mary Willis Page’s Great Great Grandfather Lawrence Washington: Lawrence was born within nine miles of Belle Grove Plantation and was a childhood friend of William Strother of Millbank and Mary Thornton of Belle Grove Plantation.

By the late 1830s, due to severe financial and legal difficulties, Page’s father-in-law, William Champe Willis and brothers-in-law Robert T. Willis and Richard H. Willis acquired the house. The home was put into a trust for the Page children. It would later be purchased by John Madison Chapman in 1849. John M. Chapman was the grandson of William Madison, brother of James Madison. John was a lawyer and would operate his practice from this house.

During the Civil War, John Chapman would support the Confederate cause. He was a slave holder with at least two enslaved people residing with them in 1860. These slaves were more than likely personal attendants to the family. In August of 1862, the war would come to their door step. A battle between the Seventh Virginia Cavalry and the First Vermont Cavalry would leave 20 to 50 men and a dozen or more horses from both sides dead on Main Street and throughout the town. In 1863, Robert E. Lee would march his army from Gettysburg to defend positions in Orange County. It was during this winter that Emma, John’s daughter would marry Robert Boykin at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. This was the same church where Robert E. Lee would worship during his stay. This church is still standing today. As an officer in Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia, Robert Boykin would have Major General JEB Stuart, Major General R.E. Rhodes, Brigadier General R.H. Chilton and Brigadier General E.A. Perry attend the reception.

St. Thomas Episcopal Church

In 1869 Chapman would become a presiding justice of Orange County and from 1874 until his death in 1879, would serve as Mayor of the Town of Orange. When President Rutherford B. Hayes visited Orange, Chapman was part of the committee that greeted him. By 1876, Chapman was deeply in debt. Alfred Thompson, part owner of the mercantile firm of Thompson and Snead filed a chancery suite against Chapman. This suit would continue through the courts even after Chapman’s death in 1879 and Thompson’s death in 1883. It was finally completed in 1896, 20 years after it had been filed. Chapman’s wife Susan would have to sell all of her property which included this house.

In 1883, John McDonald would purchase the Chapman home and gave the title to his wife, Elizabeth. In 1896, Elizabeth sold a portion of the land to the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The home would remain in the McDonald family until 1899 when Dr. Lewis Holladay purchased the property.

Dr. Lewis Holladay was a local physician and would run his practice in Orange until his death in 1946. Dr. Holladay was educated in Hampden-Sydney College and the University of Virginia. He was dean of Physicians for Orange County throughout his medical career. In 1911, he was appointed a member of the State Board of Medical Examiners and would serve as Orange County Coroner and company surgeon for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. He would also serve as Director of the National Bank of Orange and ruling elder of the Orange Presbyterian Church.

In 1892 Dr. Holladay would marry Sally Helen Price and the couple would welcome this first daughter in 1898. After Dr. Holladay purchased this brick home, he would make several additions to the building in 1910 and 1917. In the 1920s and 1930s, Dr. Holladay would construct a small schoolhouse and second home on the property. The schoolhouse no longer stands. Dr. Holladay’s daughter, Louise Holladay would teach local children in this one room private schoolhouse.

Dr. Lewis and his wife would have six children. Their oldest, Louise would never marry and would live in what is now the “Oak Room” for many years. This is the room Brett and I stayed in while we were at Holladay House Inn. Louise would remain at the house all her life and would care for Dr. Holladay after the death of her mother.

Aubry Holladay (circa 1934) in her wedding gown

As a prominent physician, Dr. Holladay knew the DuPont family of Montpelier well. He and his family would attend the DuPont’s steeplechase races, which can still been seen at Montpelier during their annual Montpelier Hunt Races in November. This Hunt Race is still one of the most popular equestrian events in Virginia with some of the oldest continually used steeplechase hedge rows in the country.

Dr. Holladay would administer physical examinations for the Selective Service System during World War I and World War II.  He would also attend to wounded heroes as they recovered in the convalescing hospital that the DuPont’s operated out of Montpelier. This hospital still stands at Montpelier and houses the students and archaeologists who work and study at Montpelier.

After his death, Louise and Lewis Jr would receive the main house. Louise would continue to live there and would sometimes rent spaces to boarders and local businesses. In 1984, Louise gave her interest to her brother Lewis Jr. This house would pass from his wife, Mildred to their son, Lewis “Pete” Holladay. In 1988 Pete Holladay and his wife Phebe would renovate the property and establish the Holladay House Bed and Breakfast. Holladay House would become well known for its wonderful hospitality and Pete’s award winning apple muffins. After 101 years of family ownership, the Holladay House would pass from their ownership in the year 2000.

In September 2006, Samuel and Sharon Elswick purchased the Holladay House and continue to keep Holladay House legacy alive and well.

When we visited, Sam and Sharon were not at home, but on a much needed break. We were warmly greeted by Sam’s father, Darnell (yes that is his first name) and his wife Kathy. Darnell showed us around and give us a little of the history of the house. He also called Elmwood at the Sparks Restaurant to make dinner reservations for us. More to come on that visit!

Blueberry Bake

After a wonderful and restful night, we were served one of the most wonderful breakfasts we have had in our bed and breakfast travels. We started with a Blueberry Bake made with fresh blueberries. It was warm and sweet and oh so tasty! Brett also enjoyed a cup of Orange County Roasters coffee. This coffee blend was special made just for the Holladay House Inn by Orange County Roasters. I think we are going to have to pay a visit to them for a special blend for Belle Grove!

Breakfast at the Holladay House Inn
Main Course

Quiche

Our main course was a light and tasty Crustless Quiche, large and juicy Grapes and thick sliced bread with heavenly homemade Apple Butter. This wonderful meal stuck with us for many hours after we left for the day!

Main Hallway

Inside Front Door

Marble Fireplace
Parlor

Dining Room

Blue Room

On our way out the door, we sat down and enjoyed a chat with Darnell and Kathy. Talking about our different families and how we each came to meet and marry our spouses was so much fun. It was as if we had known them for years! We truly felt at home with them and the Holladay House Inn. Darnell let us know that Sam and Sharon would be briefly closes the doors of the Inn soon so they can complete some repairs on the home. But rest assured that they will be open again soon. Once they do, I know we will be excited to return and enjoy the Southern hospitality that has been a part of Holladay House for generations.

Once we finished when our whirlwind tour of the Capital Square and the Virginia Executive Mansion, we jumped on the highway and headed for Charlottesville and Orange, Virginia. We had two meetings set up for Friday so we thought it would be best to spend the night in Orange. We love this area of Virginia. Just miles from James Madison’s Montpelier, this area has lots to offer.  This area is the home of the Monticello Wine Trail and 30 wineries. It is also home to three Presidential homes, Montpelier, Monticello and Ashlawn-Highlands.

Chestnut Hill Bed and Breakfast
Orange, Virginia
www.chestnuthillbnb.com

We have stayed in Orange before at the Chestnut Hill Bed and Breakfast. This is a wonderful location and we really enjoyed our stay with Kathleen and Troy. In fact, it was Kathleen and Troy who we consulted with when we first started this journey for advice. They were more than willing to offer advice and suggestions and have made themselves available to us if we need help. We really appreciate all they have done for us.

This time, however, we decided to give a new bed and breakfast a try. I have to say, it was mostly because I wanted to stay in this house. If you are a long time reader of this blog you know our love of historic homes, especially with connections to major history. This has both!

The Mayhurst Inn
Orange, Virginia
www.mayhurstinn.com

The Mayhurst Inn is 153 years old and is a beautiful Italianate Victorian House built in 1859. At 9,200 sq ft this home is 1,200 sq ft larger than Belle Grove.  It has four floors and a beautiful oval-spiral staircase. When Brett and I saw it, our first thought was that it looks like another plantation home we know very well called Camden. Camden Plantation is located just outside Port Royal across the river from Belle Grove. It too is an Italianate style home. But Camden doesn’t have its tower like the Mayhurst does. Camden’s tower was shot out by a Union gunboat during the Civil War. It sits on 37 acres and is surrounded by old trees, fields and gardens.

The Mayhurst was constructed in 1859 on the Willis Plantation by architect Mr. Starkweather of Baltimore. Colonel John Willis, owner of the Willis Plantation was the great nephew of James Madison. On this plantation they would raise corn, cattle, hogs and horses. They would also have fifty slaves working the fields and house. After the Civil War and because he heavily supported the Confederacy and was unable to pay his taxes, Colonel Willis lost his beloved home and about 1700 acres of his land. With Southern pride, Colonel Willis bore his loss with not a word. He is buried in the family plot at Montpelier.

The Mayhurst has hosted notable people like Generals Robert E. Lee, Ambrose Powell Hill and “Stonewall” Jackson and it was the site where 18,000 Confederate troops stayed during the winter of 1863-64. General A.P. Hill was headquartered here at the Willis home with 18,000 Confederate troops. His wife Kitty was also here as a guest of the Willis family. It was here that Kitty gave birth to one of their daughters and where her Godfather General Robert E. Lee held her during her christening on May 1, 1864.

General’s Room

Brett and I stayed in the General’s Room on the main floor. The first thing that struck me is that over the bed is draped a Confederate Grey cloth with gold fringe. I looked at Brett laughed and said, “I guess you will be sleeping under the Confederate colors tonight.” He gave me a smirk. (Brett is from Ohio while I am from South Carolina) The second thing that struck us was the beautiful arched windows. It was dark outside when we arrived, but in the morning we were greeted by beautiful fall colors throughout the yard.

General’s Room

General’s Room

General’s Room

We had arrived late from Richmond and the Mayhurst was serving a wine and cheese reception in the parlor. While Brett and I enjoyed a glass of Virginia Wine, the innkeeper, Jack helped us select a restaurant for our 26^th Wedding Anniversary dinner. Once we had decided, Jack contacted the restaurant and set up our reservation. After unloading our belongings and chatting briefly with Jack and the other two guests, we headed out to our reservation in Orange.

Front Hall

Parlor

Parlor

Sitting Room

Stairs

Elmwood at the Sparks
Orange, Virginia
www.elmwoodcatering.com

We ate dinner at a wonderful little restaurant located downtown Orange called “Elmwood at the Sparks”. It wasn’t a formal restaurant and we were able to go in blue jeans and be comfortable. The atmosphere here is just wonderful! We were seated towards the rear of the restaurant where we met our wait staff, Kristin. She was wonderful! She was open and friendly and was easy to have a conversation with as we ate our meal. Great attention to details was given to our every need.

Shrimp and Parmesan Grits with Shallots, Herbs, Tomatoes and Chardonnay Butter

Warm Chocolate Cake with Pumpkin Ice Cream

I selected a three course special they had for this night. I received an appetizer, entrée and dessert. My appetizer was Shrimp and Parmesan Grits with Shallots, Herbs, Tomatoes and Chardonnay Butter. Now it is hard to impress me with Shrimp and Grits, but this one was a home run! For dinner I had Pan-Fried Filet Mignon with Truffled Ravioli, Squash, Mushrooms with Red Wine Sauce. It was so delicious. For dinner Brett decided to just get an entrée and steal from my appetizer and dessert. He got Creamy Mushrooms and Penna Pasta Roasted Red Peppers, Parmesan, Belchamel, Basil Pesto and Toasted Pine Nuts that was so good! For dessert we shared a warm Chocolate Cake with Pumpkin Ice Cream. (Okay, everyone get your napkins, your drooling!)

After dinner we headed back to the Mayhurst where we met two new guests in the parlor. They were from Minnesota and were down touring the area. They told us they were heading to Williamsburg and asked us if we had any recommendations. Then we talked about the history here in Virginia and enjoyed hearing about the weather in Minnesota.

View from our window in the morning
Mayhurst Inn

Sleep came quickly after a full day of fun in Richmond. In the morning, we woke to the smell of breakfast cooking. It didn’t take us long to get ready and head down to the basement for a beautiful plate of Apple French Toast and Fresh Berries with Cream. Sitting around the large table we were able to meet two more couples who had stayed at the Mayhurst. One couple was from Ohio and the other was from Florida. Most were here to take in the beautiful fall leaves and tour the area attractions.

Fall Leaves
Mayhurst Inn

Fall Leaves
Mayhurst Inn

Fall Leaves
Mayhurst Inn

Fall Leaves
Mayhurst Inn

After breakfast, we spent a little time chatting with the innkeepers about their experiences with the Bed and Breakfast. We love to hear the good, the bad and the ugly so we have a chance not to run into the same issues. Before we realized it, we were about 15 minutes away from our first meeting. Thankfully it was only 5 minutes away. Quickly we packed up our belongs, said our good-byes and headed to what would be one of the best meetings of the week!

Tomorrow – James Madison Museum

As Brett and I drove from Richmond, Charlottesville, Orange, Westmoreland, Port Conway and King George,

we had such a wonderful time viewing the fall colors!

We wanted to share some of the colors of Virginia!

Ingleside Vineyards
Westmoreland County
Virginia

Ingleside Vineyards
Westmoreland County
Virginia

Ingleside Vineyards
Westmoreland County
Virginia

Montpelier
Home of James and Dolley Madison
Orange, Virginia

Montpelier
Home of James and Dolley Madison
Orange, Virginia

King George County
Virginia

Belle Grove Plantation
Birthplace of James Madison
Port Conway, Virginia

Belle Grove Plantation
Birthplace of James Madison
Port Conway, Virginia

Belle Grove Plantation
Birthplace of James Madison
Port Conway, Virginia

Mayhurst Bed and Breakfast
Orange, Virginia

Mayhurst Bed and Breakfast
Orange, Virginia

Mayhurst Bed and Breakfast
Orange, Virginia

Mayhurst Bed and Breakfast
Orange, Virginia

Near Charlottesville
Virginia

Near Charlottesville
Virginia

Near Charlottesville
Virginia

Virginia Country Side
Orange, Virginia