Explore Brunswick Spring 2021

Visitor & Newcomer’s Guide

EXPLORE

Brunswick Spring 2021

BRUNSWICK’S GUIDE TO: RECREATION HISTORY NATURE OUR PEOPLE EVENTS SIGHTSEEING & MORE!

ENJOY ALL BRUNSWICK HAS TO OFFER DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC! explorebrunswickva.com

FREE

PRESIDENT Chad B. Harrison DESIGNER | MAGAZINE LAYOUT Jess Ingram GRAPHIC DESIGN | ADVERTISING Amanda Meadows, Jasmaine Motley, Lindsey Mason, Susan Lambert, Mary Beth Wellborn

SYLVIA ALLEN Managing Editor

DARIAN LILES

Marketing Consultant

AMY ELLIOTT Office Manager

A special publication of the

BRUNSWICK TIMES-GAZETTE ©2021 Womack Publishing Company, Inc. P.O. Box 250, 213 Main Street, Lawrenceville, VA 23868 (P) 434-634-4153 news@brunswicktimes-gazette.com To advertise in Explore Brunswick or any of our special publications, call Darian Liles at 434.594.7167

Contents

STAFF

4 6 8 9 10 12 14 15 16-19 20 22-23 24 27 28 29 31

James S. Russel Museum Brunswick County Library Discover SVCC Brunswick Farms to Families Tobacco Heritage Trail Brunswick's Visitors Center Let's Cook with Chef Angie Cooperative Extension Area Maps The story of Brunswick Stew County Directory Fort Christanna Cancer Center Civil Rights in Education Trail Brunswick County Museum Lake Gaston

Welcome from the Editor THOUGHTS ON SNOW AND PISTACHIOS:

Welcome to the latest edition of the Explore magazine featuring the best of Brunswick County. This edition features some old favorites like Fort Christanna, Brunswick Stew, Lake Gaston and great recipes from Chef Angie East. Other features include the James Solomon Russell – Saint Paul’s College Museum and Archives, Brunswick County Library, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Brunswick Byways Visitor Center, and an update on the Civil Rights In Education Trail, Brunswick Farms to Families, Southside Virginia Community College and the Tobacco Heritage Trail.

COVID-19 has really impacted our lives this past year. There are, however, still many opportunities to enjoy all Brunswick County has to offer and remain safe.

We experienced our first snowfall in January, which got me to thinking about perspectives. As a child I looked forward to snow because it meant no school and a chance to play in the snow. What I didn’t realize was that it also meant that my Dad, D. I. Morgan, who was a contractor had to work in the snow and the snow might mean the loss of a job and income.

I was reminded recently about lessons learned from my parents about being honest. I was shopping at Food Lion and when I got back to the car I saw that a bag of pistachios was in the cart. I had failed to put them on the counter to be scanned. The choices were leave the pistachios in the cart, take the pistachios without paying for them or return to the store to pay for them. I knew that I had to pay for them because if I didn’t, then every time I ate one I would remember that it was stolen. I am so thankful for having loving parents who taught Christian values and who lived those values every day.

A heartfelt thanks goes to Bobby Conner who worked many hours gathering stories and photos for this project. He also is a tremendous help in organizing the magazine. I also want to thank Darian Liles – Marketing Consultant, Amy Elliott – Office Manager, and Jasmaine Motley and Jess Ingram at the corporate office in Chatham, for their assistance. I want to thank our advertisers for their support. This is truly a team effort, a giant puzzle, and each person is very important.

We hope you enjoy this edition. Every person I asked to send an article agreed. I am very fortunate to work with so many great people – makes my job so much fun.

Sylvia Allen, Managing Editor

Distributed locally by:

Ad Name: Teamwork - General Item #: PBW20089289 Job/Order #:613123-210897

Pecht Distributors, Inc. 514 New Street Lawrenceville, VA 23868

(434) 848-2322

Closing Date: 11.11.9 QC: SM Pub: The Tidewater News

Trim: 10.25x10.5 Bleed: None Live: 9.75x10

JAMES S. RUSSELL Saint Paul’s College Museum & Archives

T

he James Solomon Russell-Saint Paul’s College Museum & Archives is located in the Brunswick County Conference Center, 100 Athletic Field Road, Lawrenceville, Virginia. The museum has on display many rare artifacts and pictures of James Solomon Russell and Saint Paul’s College from the late 1800s to 2013, when the college closed. There is no charge for admission and is open to all alumni groups, students and the general public. Due to COVID-19, the museum has been closed and is currently open by appointment only.

In August 2020, with the help of Anne Holton, wife of Senator Tim Kaine, the museum was able to establish a dialogue with the Virginia Department of Education on having the history of James Solomon Russell, Saint Paul’s College and Brunswick County African American history included in the revisions of Virginia’s African American Curriculum.

An Education Committee was formed by the museum to work with the Department of Education. Members of the Education Committee are: Rachelle Hawkins Wesson; Dr. Angela Parker, Title I Reading Specialist and museum board member; Pamela Pearson Simmons, Civics Teacher/ Middle School We The People Coordinator; Linwood Swann, English Teacher/Project-Based Learning Coordinator and James Grimstead, Chairman, museum board.

The committee will be working with Christonya Brown, History and Social Science Coordinator with the Virginia Department of Education.

According to Hawkins-Wesson the created instructional plan would be accessible to school divisions across the Commonwealth and the nation. Our plan would incorporate the Virginia 5Cs, project-based

4 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

Bru

learning activities, created lesson plans, and a virtual field trip of Saint Paul’s College.

Through the support of Delegate Roslyn Tyler and Senator Louise Lucas during the 2020 regular session of the Virginia General Assembly, the museum was able to secure $50,000 in the 20202021 Virginia State Budget for use in the restoration and digitization of materials in the museum’s collection. Funds will also be used for several display upgrades. The museum board would like to thank, Senator Lucas, Delegate Tyler, Senator Frank Ruff and other members of the General Assembly who helped secure this funding. Governor Ralph Northam also supported the effort and signed the budget bill into law in November 2020. The museum will begin the restoration projects in early 2021.

In January 2021, through financial support from Dominion Energy and the Dominion Foundation, the museum republished James Solomon Russell’s Autobiography “Adventure in Faith”. The introduction to the reprinting was written by Xavier Kendrick Russell, the 16 year old greatgreat grandson of James Solomon Russell. Copies of the book are available for purchase from the museum board of directors.

For more information about the museum, call James Grimstead, Chairman (434) 848-2173, visit us at jsrussell.org, spcmuseum.org or Facebook. •

k Times-Gazet te wic ns

VOTED BEST LOGGING COMPANY

PLACE

20

20 ce Read ers’ Choi

Sigmund Jones • Nelvin Jones • Tom Taylor 8567 Christanna Highway • Gasburg, VA 23857 Office: 434-577-9401 • Fax: 434-577-9430 Sigmund Jones: 434-532-6084 • srjoneslandt@telpage.net

434-577-9401 • 434-532-6084

S. R. Jones, Jr. Land & Timber, Inc. is a buyer of land, standing timber and pulpwood thinnings.

We pride ourselves on being a full service forestry company. Our parent company, S. R. Jones, Jr. & Sons, Inc., has been logging in Southside Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina for over 45 years. All of our crews are Sharp Logger Certified by the Virginia Forestry Association, and will harvest your timber in compliance with Virginia’s Best Management Practices.

A forester from our company would like to evaluate your tract of timber, at no cost to you. Our foresters are experienced in making recommendations regarding the needs of your tract that will maximize harvesting profit. We are also available to assist you with decisions about and the process of replanting your tract once cut. Should our staff determine that the best option for your tract is additional time for timber growth, we also offer a timber management program (TMP). Enrollment in this program is free, and there is no obligation to you other than to notify our company when you decide to sell your timber. This program includes periodic checks on your tract and advice as to the appropriate time to thin or clear cut based on your individual needs.

Remember, there is no obligation once you contact us and no strings attached. Should you and our foresters decide now is the time to harvest your timber, the purchase price is paid to you before the first tree is cut (other options are available as well). Take advantage of this opportunity to be certain your timber is growing healthy and to obtain an accurate value of your trees by conscientious professionals! Give us a call today!

BRUNSWICK COUNTY LIBRARY

OFFERS BOOKS & SO MUCH MORE

A

s a branch of the Meherrin Regional Library System, the Brunswick County Library serves citizens of Brunswick County, Greensville County, and the City of Emporia.

magazines, newspapers, movies, and more through a variety of different

Located at 133 West Hicks Street, the Lawrenceville, Brunswick

can download eBooks and eAudiobooks from the Libby app by

County Library offers a full range of traditional and digital library

OverDrive, and eMagazines and eNewspapers from PressReader.

services, onsite and virtually through www.meherrinlib.org. Patrons

TumbleBooks and World Book’s Early World of Learning offer read-

can sign up for monthly library newsletters featuring new books,

along stories, songs, and games for the early learner. Additional sources

recommendations, library events, and more. To sign up for the library’s

for continuing education are Universal Class, Rocket Languages, and

newsletter visit the drop down list at About Us at www.meherrinlib.org

A to Z Maps. Another resource is A to Z Databases that provides

(or directly at https://bit.ly/2YznWPx).

an up to date search ability for individuals, businesses, and jobs.

6 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

The Library provides patrons with free access to electronic books, providers. Through the Library’s website and individual apps, patrons

Find links to these resources and more on the Digital Library page at www.meherrinlib.org.

Traditional walk-in and telephone services are available for reference and renewals. E-mail reference services are available at mrls.brunswick@ gmail.com. Local history and genealogy inquiries are welcome. The Dr. William McCaddin Pritchett Local History and Genealogy Room contains a wealth of information on Southside Virginia as well as family histories and yearbooks. Additional genealogy resources are available through Ancestry for Libraries. For the student, distance learner, or researcher, an extensive database of periodical literature, newspapers, and full-text professional journals are available through Find It Virginia (www.finditva.com). A link is provided on the Library’s Digital Library page. Access to all databases and digital resources is free to library cardholders.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and crisis, recent additions to the Brunswick County Library include self-checkouts kiosks, contact free locker pick-up, expanded Wi-Fi coverage in parking areas, as well as social distancing partitions. In lieu of in-person programs during the crisis, the Brunswick County Library offers monthly Grab & Go craft bags for children to promote STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts,

and Mathematics) initiatives.

Services for children include a weekly Storytimes and the library’s Summer Reading Program. Summer 2021’s theme is Tails & Tales.

Many programs, exhibits, performances, entertainers, prizes, and new resources will complement this theme all summer long. Summer Reading activities encourages students and young readers to continue their reading skills throughout the summer months. The Brunswick County Library also participates in the 1000 Books (and Things) Before Kindergarten program to encourage and promote literacy and school preparedness to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

The Brunswick County Library is a Passport Acceptance Facility and additionally offers photocopy and fax services, public meeting facilities and exhibit space, public access computers and printing, and Wi-Fi. Your library is a wonderful source of information, education, and fun.

Visit your library today! The phone number is (434) 848-2418. •

Kidney Stones Urologic Cancers Urinary Tract Infections Urinary Incontinence Pelvic Organ Prolapse Overactive Bladder

Kidney Stones Urologic Cancers Urinary Incontinence Vasectomy & Vasectomy Reversal Erectile Dysfunction Prostate Health

When the Signs Point to a Urological Problem...

Rely on the Experts at

State-of-the-Art Medical Expertise with Compassionate, Individualized Attention.

1-800-828-7656 1-800-828-7656 Call 1-800-828-7656 1-800-828-7656 or visit www.uro.com

for appointments or more information.

Richmond • Mechanicsville • Midlothian • Tappahannock • Prince George • Emporia

24/7 Kidney Stone Hotline When you’re experiencing a kidney stone attack, you want relief as soon as possible! Call Virginia Urology’s Kidney Stone Hotline 804-560-7866. We offer rapid care and convenient onsite diagnostic & treatment for kidney stones that is available Monday - Friday.

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 7

DISCOVER SVCC: Panther Pride, Catch it!

A

t Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) students will never be lost in the crowd or treated like a number. SVCC faculty, staff and administrators provide a top-notch educational experience for students of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Many students begin their college careers at SVCC with plans to transfer to four-year colleges and universities; while others complete occupational-technical programs that educate and train workers for business and industry, such as nursing or information technology.

“For more than 50 years, Southside Virginia Community College has been making a difference in the communities we serve. Thousands have passed through our doors and earned degrees and certificates.

Many more have received a great college start as students in our dual enrollment partnership with area high schools,” said Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, President, Southside Virginia Community College.

SVCC serves primarily the residents of the city of Emporia and the counties of Brunswick, Buckingham, Charlotte, Cumberland, Greensville, Halifax, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Nottoway, and

Prince Edward. This represents an area of approximately 4,200 square miles and is the largest service area of the 23 colleges that comprise the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).

“SVCC graduates may be your banker, your child’s teacher, the policeman protecting your neighborhood, your pastor, your mom’s nurse, the power line worker turning on your electricity after a storm, your accountant, the automotive technician working on your car, the truck driver delivering your holiday packages, the receptionist at your dental office, your emergency room doctor, and your neighbor. The list goes on and on. SVCC has positively impacted so many lives over the years and continues to do the same today,” Johnson added.

FastForward programs are short-term training programs for high-demand industries, helping Virginians get the jobs they want and the salaries they need. SVCC is proud to offer these programs which include: Diesel Technician, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), HVAC, Massage Therapy, Medication Assistant, Nurse Aide Training, Phlebotomy, Power Line Worker, Solar and

8 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

Truck Driving Training.

“The FastForward programs are so important because, after completion, they allow students to begin a career; in weeks, not years,” said Dr. Keith Harkins, Vice President, Academic & Workforce Programs, Southside Virginia Community College. “Each year, we see the impact these programs have on the futures of our students; their earning potential will increase considerably with the credentials attained from FastForward programs.”

Graduates of FastForward workforce training programs at Virginia’s Community Colleges see an average of $8,000 in wage increases, plus more satisfaction with work schedules and employer benefits, according to an annual survey of students who completed FastForward training and attained industry recognized workforce credentials.

SVCC is dedicated to the belief that everyone should be given an opportunity to acquire an educational foundation that develops and extends their skills and knowledge. This mission still holds true today as the college continues to serve the people of Southside Virginia. Panther Pride, Catch it!

For more information call (434) 9491000 or visit www.southside.edu. •

BRUNSWICK FARMS TO FAMILIES FORMING PARTNERSHIPS

B

runswick Farms to Families is working with the Town of Lawrenceville to construct a community garden and raised beds for local families at the Brickyard Street property. The partnership will also include the Brunswick Health Ambassadors, Virginia State University Small Farms Outreach Program and Brunswick County Public Schools.

The purpose of the project is to provide limited use of raised beds for planting as well as an educational and cultural experience to learn various gardening and farming skills.

BFF will seek the funding for materials needed for the educational program, as well as the community garden and raised beds. They will also prepare the land for cultivating and testing the soil.

A much larger community garden with community help could be constructed if the property allows. Food that is grown at the garden will be provided to local churches and food pantry programs.

Brunswick Farms to Families (BFF) was developed as an outreach from the Brunswick Health Ambassadors. BFF has developed partnerships with Brunswick County Public Schools, Town of Lawrenceville, local Church Food Pantries, VSU Small Farms Outreach Program to provide produce and outreach for educational services to small farmers and the county’s youths. Our programs serve existing small farmers, beginning farmers, students, and residents of the community. Brunswick Farms to Families focuses on engaging the youths

in the community by providing Agriculture education and engaging them with learning through hands-on demonstration. With adult and student volunteers, BFF has created outdoor demonstration garden space to increase the awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles with enhancing access to the Lawrenceville Tobacco Heritage Trail.

Brunswick Farms to Families has an exciting and aggressive program scheduled for 2021 late winter and early spring. BFF welcomes and needs all volunteers and will train. For questions and to explore volunteer opportunities, please contact Bernard L. Jones, Sr. – Chairman, at (804) 943-3899. •

PICTURED: Brunswick Farms to Families recently coordinated a demonstration of a single row sweet potato harvester on the farm of Bernard Jones, Alberta, Virginia. The weather was just perfect for the demonstration and there was a lot of camaraderie: kneeling, left to right, Joshua McIntosh, student at Brunswick High School; and William Crutchfield, Director of Small Farm Outreach Program, Virginia State University; Bernard Jones, seated, Chairman of Brunswick Farms to Families; Maximillian Bruce, a student at Brunswick High School; Frederick Custis -Field Coordinator, James Edwards - Veteran Coordinator, Alston Hilliard - Program Coordinator, Anthony Cole - Field Technician, James Maclin, a local farmer, and Herbert Brown, Jr. with the Farm Service Agency, participated in the demonstration.

Photo by Sylvia Allen/Brunswick Times-Gazette.

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 9

Walk, bike or ho

the Tobacco H

T

he Tobacco Heritage Trail reaches from Lawrenceville to La Crosse and by connector highway into South Hill giving walkers, bicyclist, and equestrians a safe place to travel and enjoy the beautiful scenes across Southside Virginia. This is a non-motorized trail converted from abandoned railroad beds.

The Tobacco Heritage Trail has also been designated as a Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. On the trail you can see rabbits, turtles, birds, butterflies, wild turkeys, deer, and the occasional snake. When using the trail please remember to observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors and exposes them to predators and other dangers.

The trail offers scenic sights, resting areas, parking areas, a rest room facility and the sounds of quiet and nature only found away from the highways of life. Some portions of the trail are handicap accessible.

If you wish to become a friend or volunteer of the trail, call (434) 447-7101 or visit www.tobaccoheritagetrail.org. •

10 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

rseback ride

eritage Trail

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 11

T

PLAN TO VISIT THE BRUNSWICK BYWAYS VISITOR CENTER

he Brunswick Byways Visitor Center has numerous displays and information to share regarding Brunswick’s rich history, cultural heritage, and natural resources and will inform the traveling public about the county’s two Virginia Byways – Christanna Highway (Route 46) and Lake Gaston Byway (Highways 903/626).

Inside the center, visitors will find two and three-dimensional exhibits, graphics, artifact cases, hands-on interactive exhibits, an enlightening welcome video, as well as brochures and maps to help direct visitors to the county’s various attractions and amenities.

Visitors will also find exhibits featuring several of our hometown celebrities such as Governor Albertis Harrison, Jr., Justice Cleo Powell, Susan Clarke Schaar, Bryant

Stith, Darius Hargrove, Dominique Hardy, Henry Rice, the late Willie Wright and many more. The traveling public and Brunswick citizens are encouraged to utilize the visitor center to welcome their families and guests to the area. The center is also a great place for local schools to engage students and staff by scheduling field trips to the center to educate youth about the many historical assets, recreational opportunities, and rich cultural heritage in Brunswick County.

The Brunswick Byways Visitor Center also serves as home to Brunswick’s first ever LOVEwork which was unveiled during a joint business after-hours event held in April 2019.

The Brunswick County Board of Supervisors revealed the artwork while also encouraging

12 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

visitors to stop and snap a photo with the LOVEwork on the lawn at the center to share with family and friends during their travels here in Brunswick County.

The Brunswick Byways Visitor Center is located at 13516 Christanna Highway, Lawrenceville, VA 23868. The visitor centers hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Winter hours include individual Sunday closures which begin the Sunday before Thanksgiving through the last Sunday in March. To reach the Brunswick Byways Visitor Center call (434) 8482728 and for additional information visit the following websites: www.brunswickco.com or www.visitbrunswickcova.com.•

Welcome to Brunswick County The Location of Choice!

The gold standard for | business | leisure | family | education

Brunswick County Welcomes DroneUp!

Come Grow with Us!

Department of Economic Development Alfreda Jarrett Reynolds, Director 228 N. Main Street | Lawrenceville VA 23868 434 848 8200 | areynolds@brunswickco.com

RECIPES

LET’S COOK

with Chef Angie STEP BY STEP

JUICY ROASTED CHICKEN “My grandmother’s recipe for roasted chicken - a chicken this juicy; this little trick works and makes the people eating it go silent. It’s funny. We nibble on the celery after.”

SERVES 6 INGREDIENTS 1 (3 lb.) whole chicken,

giblets removed salt and black pepper to taste 1 tbsp onion powder 1.2 c margarine, divided 1 stalk celery,

leaves removed

DIRECTIONS 1 Preheat oven to 350 F. 2 Place chicken in a roasting pan, and season generously inside and out with salt and pepper. Sprinkle inside and out with onion powder. Place 3 tablespoons margarine in the chicken cavity. Arrange dollops of the remaining margarine around the chicken’s exterior. Cut the celery into 3 or 4 pieces, and place in the chicken cavity.

3 Bake uncovered 1 hour and 15 minutes in the preheated oven, to a minimum internal temperature of 180 F. Remove from heat, and baste with melted margarine and drippings. Cover with aluminum foil, and allow to rest about 30 minutes before serving.

DESSERT

STUFFED STRAWBERRIES “Yum, yum! Sometimes I add some finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate. These are perfect for baby showers or wedding showers. A plastic sandwich bag can be used instead of a pastry bag by filling with the cream cheese mix and making a tiny cut in the corner.”

SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS 1 pint fresh strawberries 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened 1.2 c confectioners' sugar, or to taste 2 tbsp orange flavored liqueur, or to taste

14 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

DIRECTIONS 1 Cut the tops off of the strawberries and stand upright on the cut side. Make a cut 3/4 of the way down from the tip of the strawberry towards the bottom.

2 Beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and liqueur until smooth in a mixer or a food processor. Place into a piping bag with a star tip. Pipe into each strawberry and arrange on a serving platter.

Virginia Cooperative Extension • Brunswick County

T

he Brunswick County Extension Office is a unit within Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE). There are 107 county and city units throughout the Commonwealth. Extension is an educational service operated under cooperative sponsorship of Brunswick County, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the US Department of Agriculture.

The purpose of the Brunswick County Extension Office is to provide information to people through educational programs, instruction, and publications to help improve their economic, social and cultural well-being. The resources and expertise of the Virginia Land-Grant Universities are utilized by adapting their research to meet the needs and interests of the local area.

The areas of expertise of the Brunswick County Extension Program include Agriculture and Natural Resources, 4-H Youth Development, Family Consumer Sciences, SNAPEd, and Community Viability. The 4-H/Youth Development program works with youth ages 9 to 18 in a myriad of projects which include wildlife, shooting sports education, public speaking, presentations, leadership, camp, livestock, citizenship and more. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-Ed) Education increases knowledge limited resource individuals and families about nutrition, health, and wellness through evidence-based educational programs. This year due to COVID-19 Virginia Cooperative Extension has modified the way we educate to help keep our county residents safe.

We have been trying new avenues to educate, via Zoom, Facebook Live, Virtual Field Days, Online classes, and being able to utilize other programs to help out everyone with getting answers to their questions. Agents have also worked on new

publications and other materials including virtual learning such as growing a vegetable in a pot: Gardening Project, as people have a renewed interest in growing their own food. There are so many more we could share. Call us for more information.

So, in the time of COVID-19 Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Mission to educate our citizens has not changed but has risen to new levels to serve and educate. If you are interested in learning more about the educational programs offered through the Brunswick County Extension Office contact us at 100-A Tobacco Street, Lawrenceville, VA 23868, phone (434) 8482151, on the web at http://offices.ext.vt.edu/brunswick or on Facebook @vcebrunswickcova.

Extension is a joint program of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state and local governments.

Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating. Edwin J. Jones, Director, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg; M. Ray McKinnie, Administrator, 1890 Extension Program, Virginia State University, Petersburg.•

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 15

16 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 17

18 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

Rd Lit tle mo nt

Masons Mill Rd

Brunswick County Towns Alberta, Brodnax, & Lawrenceville

Samford St North St

Church

St

St

Virginia Ave Alberta School Park Trail W First Ave Scho ol S t W Elm E Third Ave Third St Ave

ingbir d Ln

To

Ln

d

Pla

Tan n Cotton Ln

Dugger St

Rd

Railroad

St

Dr

Main High

nk

Virginia Rd

Rd

Kerr

n Bo yd to

Southside Virginia Community College

St St

« I BRODNAX

Pond

y Pine

R

oe Rd eD

Campus Dr

Þ6

Ave

nia Dor

Pl

er

ty

l

Rd

wn

er

Cumbia Ln

EXIT 28

Li b

Li t t

EXIT 27

6,000 Feet

Pinehurst

$ d " !

Great Creek Dr

3,000

1 Inch = 3,000 Feet

Rd

Hwy

Mock

q

Bran ch

bud

e Ros

Plank Rd

Township Rd

North Ave

a tann Chris

ALBERTA

od Ave Virginia Ave E First Ave

0

Branch Dr

Main

Connelly St

w ?

Boydton

Brunswo

w ?

Richwood

Dr

0

3,000

6,000 Feet

1 Inch = 3,000 Feet

St

St

High

d R d

Law ren

cF d

S ou t h

St E

St Minola St

0

ks

Ave

1,500

3,000 Feet

1 Inch = 1,500 Feet

Turnbull

H ic

Fifth

Ave

Dr

St

w °?

Crescent D r

St

So

a Railro

St

St

Walnu t

Brunswick County Courthouse

Main

u th

Rose

Tobacco St

Thomas St

Ave

Sixth

l Cattai

Athleti

N

St

Trail Access

Fifth

Rd lank

LAWRENCEVILLE

S

W

Ne w

Davie St

W Third Ave

Trai l

h St W Churc

Main

Maple St

Rd

e

Bel t

Union

itag

Ave

l le P

Court St

Second

sor

Sharp St

rd St

He r

St

James Solomon Russell Dr

St

cco

nd

Park

Fox

St

w ?

Ave

i cev

Ct

Ave

First

kya

c

Tob a

Goodrich Ln

Wi

B ri

Ln

St

us

Grove

Fox

don Gor

ie l

p Cam

Davenport St

Ln

N

Dr

Governor

Harrison

Meadow

Parkway

« I

Ln

Willow Ln

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 19

THE REAL STORY OF BRUNSWICK STEW

In the early days of Brunswick County, probably 1828, a hunting party gathered at Mount Donum, on the Nottoway in the northwestern corner of the county, the home of Dr. Creed Haskins. Dr. Haskins took with them his cook, “Uncle” Jimmy Matthews, who was well known for his culinary skills. He was always along on the hunting expeditions.

By Gay Neale

20 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

W

hile the hunters went in search of game, Uncle Jimmy spent his time shooting the fat squirrels that abounded in the woods. He made a stew of them, using, so the legend says, butter, onions, stale bread and seasoning. Dr. Haskins, it was reported, added some brandy or Madeira to the pot on their return to “give the stew a flavor.”

The hunters, who had had no luck finding game, were delighted with the concoction and asked for more when they finished. On future hunting expeditions Uncle Jimmy was always asked to make his stew. Soon he was making it for picnics and public events with great pride and delight.

Meade Haskins wrote down the original recipe in 1907. The family had kept the recipe and improved on it, but he contended that “Vegetables are not in the original Brunswick stew. Those who prefer vegetables add them after the stew is done, in their plates.” His recipe called for bacon to add some fat to the squirrel meat. After boiling with onions he added bread crumbs, butter, and salt and pepper last. The pot should boil for four hours, and water should be added at intervals.

John P. Mason claimed to have a recipe handed down to him by Dr. Creed Haskins which is similar to the one above except that over a pound of butter went into the mix and it should be “rich and highly seasoned” with both black and red pepper. While he said other meat could be used, “Squirrels are best.”

In the 1930s, Freeman F. Browder was renowned for his stew, and his recipe

shows the evolution toward vegetables. By this time, in order to make a quantity, people were using the cast iron wash pots found in every back yard to make large batches. Browder’s recipe begins, “Scrub pot well.”

He renders pork side meat for fat, braises the meat, then adds water, onions, tomatoes, butterbeans and corn. A final seasoning and the stew becomes perfection.

Around that same time, Virginia S. Woodruff wrote her recipe out as a verse:

First catch your chicken, clean and cut them And in an iron pot you put them And water nearly to the top And in it salt and pepper drop.

Boil slowly. Your tomatoes peel.

Put in a shin or so of veal, And for the flavor, bear in mind A chunk of middling with the rind.

Next some onions you throw in, The young and tender skin, And butterbeans do not forget; And what is more important yet The corn. But do not be too fast, For you must cut and add it last, For better than the flour you’ll find it’ll do To give some thickness to the stew.

Some lemon peel cut very thin May now be added and stirred in, And ere it is taken from the fire Give it a dash of Worcestershire.

And soon you will hear its praises ring.

This is a dish fit for a king.

Mrs. Woodruff’s recipe will strike purists as slightly overdone with its veal, lemon peel and Worcestershire, but it demonstrates the evolution of the dish.

The recipe has changed a bit through the years, some incorporating such vegetables as okra, celery or carrots. Potatoes are used extensively today. Since squirrels are harder to come by, chicken is the preferred meat in the classic version. Some prefer ham or lamb, but others rule that out.

Now it is a staple at large events, and many a fund-raiser depends on profits from a stew. People in Brunswick often keep a few quarts in the freezer for unexpected guests, and it is even sold on-line from Brunswick County through www.TheCinnamonCafe.com.

Naturally, with such a fine delicacy, there are imitations. For a period of time, Brunswick, Georgia claimed to have invented the stew, but their inferior product was never of the caliber of the local stew. Dr. Edwin T. Williams in 1958 said, “It is very evident that our Georgia friends were misled by the coincidence in names.” In the 1980s, debate continued between the two Brunswicks to the extent that various stew-making teams competed in annual “Stew-Wars” between the towns. Trucks pulling stewpots went alternately from Brunswick County, Virginia, to Brunswick, Georgia and competition was stiff and intense “stew-offs.” While no

one was declared final victor in these years, the Brunswick County cooks definitely felt superior. In 1991 Southern Living did an extensive story on the “Stew Wars” with recipes from both sides, including a truly heretic version out of Georgia with barbecue sauce in it!

Today, acknowledged “stew-masters” in the county will be asked to make a stew for an occasion. They show up with giant pots, often made from cut-down propane tanks, and with built-in burners. These are mounted on trailers so they can be moved from one place to another, such as the annual trek to Richmond to make stew on the Capitol steps for the legislators on Brunswick Stew Day. Their crew of five or six stalwart assistants assembles and they begin the stew. It will bubble and boil all night, while the men in shifts stir it with canoe paddles. The waist-high pots are hard to stir once the stew begins to thicken, and it is not as easy as it seems.

The stew is the star of an annual county festival, called “Taste of Brunswick,” held the second Saturday of every October on the Southside Virginia Community College grounds in Alberta. It brings music, arts and crafts, activities for children, politicians, snow-cones and funnel cake merchants, and more to a happy throng. The chief attraction at this fest, however, is a stew-off with 20 plus stew-masters and their teams, each in their own tent, making gallons of stew and selling out by noon to an eager crowd. Lines form for the winners of the contest, but each stew-master has fans and the slight variations in taste (perhaps a whiff of wood smoke, or maybe a bit more hot spice) add excitement.

Today cooks make a pot of Brunswick stew for their families with a version of the old recipes, possibly using new-fangled innovations such as crockpots, microwaves and instant potatoes, but the stew is still much the same.

And some probably, as Dr. Creed Haskins did, put a little brandy in it “for flavor.” Whatever the variation, it is still the original Brunswick stew from Brunswick County, Virginia.

Here is a recipe that feeds a family and most nearly approaches the Platonic Ideal of Brunswick stew: INGREDIENTS 1 (3 lb.) broiler-fryer 2 stalks celery 1 onion, quartered 7 (or more) cups of water 2 (10-oz) pkgs of frozen baby lima beans 2 (10-oz) pkgs of frozen whole kernel corn 1 cup chopped onion 2 (28-oz) cans whole or diced tomatoes, undrained 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 3 tbsp butter or margarine 1 tbsp salt 1 1/2 tbsp black pepper 1/2 tbsp red pepper 10 saltine crackers, crumbled DIRECTIONS Combine chicken, celery, onion and 5 C. water in crock pot or stock pot.

Bring to boil and reduce heat, simmering 1 hour. Cool and remove chicken, celery and onion. Save broth in pot. Bone, skin and chop chicken. Add chicken and all other ingredients except saltines to pot. Simmer uncovered 4 1/2 hours (5 in crock pot on low) until all is blended, adding water if necessary. Stir often. Crumble crackers and add, cooking 15 minutes more. Yield: 3 1/2 quarts. •

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 21

DIRECTORY Fire/Police/Rescue: 911 Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency Sheriff Brian Roberts Tel: (434) 848-3133 120 East Hicks Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 County Administrator’s Office Charlette T. Woolridge, Ph.D., County Administrator Leslie Weddington, Assistant County Administrator Tel: (434) 848-3107 228 North Main Street P. O. Box 399 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Alfreda Jarrett Reynolds Director of Economic Development Tel: (434) 848-3107 228 North Main Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Dixie Walker Tourism Coordinator Tel: (434) 848-2728 Brunswick Byway Visitor Center 13516 Christanna Highway Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Animal Control Department James Maclin, Animal Control Officer Tel: (434) 848-0912 595 Planters Road Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Building Official Harrison Jamison Tel: (434) 848-2962 228 North Main Street P.O. Box 399 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Planning Department George Morrison, III Tel: ( 434) 848-0882 228 North Main Street P. O. Box 399 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Solid Waste Department Chandra Vaughan - Director Tel: (434) 848-3562 107 Mallard Crossing Road Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Brunswick County Voter Registrar David Clary Tel: (434) 848-4414 100 Tobacco Street, Room 103 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Commonwealth’s Attorney Lezlie S. Green Tel: (434) 848-3122 P.O. Box 797 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Brunswick County Library Becky Walker, Director Tel: (434) 848-2418 Fax: (434) 848-4786 133 West Hicks Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Clerk of Circuit Court Jacqueline Seward Morgan Tel: (434) 848-2215 Fax: 434) 848-4307 216 North Main Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Brunswick County Treasurer’s Office Jacqueline Mangrum, Treasurer Tel: (434) 848-2512 228 North Main Street P. O. Box 130 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

General District Court Susan Martin, Clerk Tel: (434) 848-8376 202 North Main Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

Brunswick County Commissioner of Revenue Camilla Clayton-Bright Tel: (434) 848-2313 228 North Main Street P. O. Box 669 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

USDA/Farm Service Agency Brunswick FSA Office Herbert Brown, Jr. Tel: (434) 848-2223 1727 Lawrenceville Plank Road Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Virginia Cooperative Extension Service Brunswick County Tel: (434) 848-2151 100 Tobacco Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Brunswick County Department of Social Services Tel: (434) 848-2142 201 Sharp Street, Suite 100 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Brunswick County Health Department Tel: (434) 848-2525 1632 Lawrenceville Plank Road Lawrenceville, Va. 23868

22 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

Brunswick County Public Schools Dr. Kristy Somerville-Midgette, Division Superintendent Tel: (434) 848-3138 1718 Farmers Field Road Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Brunswick Chamber of Commerce Tel: (434) 848-3154 400 North Main Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Brunswick County Industrial Development Authority Tel: (434) 848-0248 116 West Hicks Street P. O. Box 48 Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

Police/Fire/Rescue Squad Dial 911

NON-EMERGENCY NUMBERS: Brunswick Volunteer Rescue Squad (434) 848-3020 Central Volunteer Rescue Squad (434) 577-3079 Alberta Rescue (434) 949-7541 Ebony Volunteer Fire Department (434) 636-2643 Gasburg Volunteer Fire Department (434) 577-2561 Dolphin Volunteer Fire Department (434) 848-4171 Lawrenceville Volunteer Fire Department (434) 848-3651 Triplet Volunteer Fire Department (434) 577-9195 Alberta Volunteer Fire Department (434) 949-7541 Brodnax Volunteer Fire Department (434) 729-3172 HOSPITALS: VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital, South Hill (434) 447-3151 Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center, Emporia (434) 348-4400 NURSING HOMES: Envoy of Lawrenceville (434) 848-4766 COMMUNITY SERVICES: Brunswick County Health Dept. www.vdh.virginia.gov/lhd/southisde (434) 848-6545 Brunswick County Social Services www.commonhelp.virginia.gov (434) 848-2142 Virginia Dept. of Veteran Services (434) 447-3231 Virginia Employment Commission (866) 832-2363

VCU Cancer Research & Resource Center (434) 532-8190

SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING CENTERS

MEDICAL DOCTORS:

Ante 619 Pairs Drtve Emporia, VA

Dr. Juan Rivas, Southside Community Health Center, Alberta (434) 949-7211 Dr. William Harrison - Brunswick Family Practice, Lawrenceville (434) 848-0072 Dr. Christopher Ackerman Lawrenceville Primary Care, Lawrenceville (434) 848-0771 VETERINARY CLINICS: Dr. Robert Dennis, DVM - Brunswick Veterinary Clinic (434) 848-2876 EDUCATION: Brunswick County Public Schools (434) 848-3138 Brunswick Academy (434) 848-2220 Southside Virginia Community College (434) 949-1000 SERVICES: Brunswick County Victim/Witness Assistance Program (434) 848-9999 NEWS: Brunswick Times–Gazette (434) 848-2114 or (434) 634-4153 TOWNS: Town of Alberta 53 Main Street Alberta, Va. 23821 Tel: (434) 949-7443 Town of Brodnax 28 Main Street Brodnax, Va. 23920 Tel: (434) 729-3191 Town of Lawrenceville 400 North Main Street Lawrenceville, Va. 23868 Tel: (434) 848-2414

Alberta 8318 Boydton Plank Road Alberta, VA Brodnax Convenience Center 3421 Evans Creek Road Brodnax, VA Dolphin 8531 Liberty Road Dolphin, VA Ebony 116 Doctor Purdy Road Blackridge, VA Freeman 1121 Freeman Cross Road Freeman, VA Gasburg 5685 Gasburg Road Gasburg, VA South Brunswick 9162 Christanna Hwy Lawrenceville, VA Red Oak 1039 Lew Jones Road Alberta, VA Totaro 620 Fox Lane Lawrenceville, VA Triplet 1877 Western Mill Road Lawrenceville, VA Warfield 7315 Sturgeon Road Warfield, VA There are containers to recycle plastic, aluminum and cardboard at the center. Centers are open Monday, Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and closed Tuesday and Thursday for maintenance. For more information call the Brunswick County Solid Waste Management Department at (434) 848-3562 or the county administrator’s office at (434) 848-3107.

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 23

FORT CHRISTANNA A hidden gem

A great outdoor adventure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

T

he Fort Christanna Historical Site, located on Fort Hill Road two miles south of Lawrenceville just off Christanna Highway (Route 46), was built by Governor Alexander Spotswood both to provide protection to early settlers in the wilderness that became Brunswick County, and to give shelter to the many fragments of displaced Native American tribes allied with the English. The fort was set up as a trading company and for a while was a busy hub for trade in furs.

In 1714, the site of Fort Christanna on Virginia’s western frontier was the farthest eastern outpost of the British Empire. The 3.5 acre, five-sided fort was built within a 36 square mile tract of land on the Meherrin River, set aside for the Saponie and Occaneechee Indians who settled at the Fort.

Spotswood employed 12 young men who rode out daily along with some Indian men to patrol the area and keep the new settlers moving into the area safe from attack. These rangers also helped conduct trade at the fort.

Within the three acres of the palisaded fort walls were many structures.

There were blockhouses at each of the five corners, a forge, probably warehouses and storage buildings for trade goods and supplies. Governor Spotswood’s fort included the creation of an Indian School to educate the Native American children living nearby. At his own expense Spotswood paid the salary of the schoolmaster, Charles Griffin who taught his students English and religion. A visitor in 1716 reported that the Indian students knew the Lord’s Prayer and could recite the Anglican catechism. As many as 100 students were in the Indian School at Fort Christanna. Having Indian children from many tribes within the walls of the fort was, in part, a

24 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

strategy to prevent Indian attack. By 1717 the fort and the school at Christanna had lost its support in London and Virginia, however. The Indian School closed, and its schoolmaster went back east to teach Indian students at the College of William and Mary.

Near the fort was a village for the Indians, members of many small tribes that had been forced from their homes to the east. Some 600 people lived there in homes they constructed from native materials. They lived off of hunting, fishing the river, and trade in furs and crafts. The Fort Christanna experience brought to the tribes of the region new ideas, a new language, a new religion, and new dependency on Europeans trade goods.

The old tribal ways and traditions fast fell away as the Virginia colony expanded. But the tribes whose children were educated at Fort Christanna adapted and endured. Several tribes in Virginia and North Carolina today are proud descendants of those students at the Christanna Indian School.

After the Virginia legislature withdrew its support, in 1718, a private company ran it for a time, and then that failed. By this time Brunswick was growing in population from many settlers, and in 1720 was chartered as a county. Protection from hostile Indians was no longer necessary. Many Indians drifted off to join other tribes, although some remained, living on the old, deserted site.

In time, the fort’s palisade walls and buildings fell, and the site reverted to forest land. Even after its decline, however, stories of the fort were kept alive by residents of Brunswick County.

In 1928 the Colonial Dames of Virginia bought 3.25 acres of land and a monument was placed on the grounds. That marker was a concrete block studded with arrowheads, which people vandalized.

It was replaced by the present monument with cannon in the 1950s.

In 2001, the Brunswick County Board of Supervisors, in order to protect the original three acre fort site, purchased 22 acres of surrounding property. In 2006, to further protect the site, two and a half acres, directly across the road from the site was purchased by the Board of Supervisors.

In 1979-1981 an archeological dig on the site under the direction of Dr. Mary C. Beaudry affirmed the outlines of the palisade wall and provided some information about life there. In 2002-2004 archaeology led by Dr. Chris Stevenson showed much more about the trade and life of the people of the fort.

Today, after several years of development, and considerable help from local companies and the Board of Supervisors, the site has been transformed into a 25 acre historical and recreational park, with trails around the perimeter of the walls where the five sided fort was located. A new parking area with handicap parking has been constructed, with a brick terrace welcome area and information kiosk.

Interpretive signage has been installed at the brick terrace area and along the fort wall paths describing Alexander Spotswood’s role in the establishment of the fort, Native American presence at the site, construction of the fort and the role of Brunswick County and the National Society of the Colonial Dames of American in the State of Virginia. Through the Common Wealth Award from the Garden Club of Virginia, the Brunswick Garden Club has constructed an outdoor learning center for use by teachers, students and others to discuss the history of the Fort Christanna and the Indian people who frequented the fort. The site is also included as a stop on the Christanna Loop of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail and is a stop on the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail.

There are engraved granite benches that have been donated by civic organizations or in memory or honor of individuals placed throughout the area for visitors to relax and enjoy the many scenic and natural sights and sounds. The park is open sunup to sundown, and all are welcome to visit and see enjoy the historical, recreational and scenic assets of the site.

Visit www.brunswickco.com for more information. •

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 25

Welcome to the

Committed to Success

Town of Lawrenceville • 400 North Main Street • Lawrenceville, VA 23868 434.848.2414 • www.lawrencevilleweb.us • or check us out on Facebook

CANCER CENTER A valuable resource

By Teya Whitehead, Cancer Research and Resource Center Coordinator

T

he VCU Massey Cancer Center | Research and Resource Center (CRRC) – Lawrenceville takes the safety and health of our community citizens seriously and restricting access to our office has been in place in response to the Coronavirus (COVID -19).

The CRRC follows the Center of Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) and The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) guidelines.

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the CRRC is operating by appointments only.

All visitors must check in at the Health Station, temperatures are checked, masks/face coverings are required, hands must be sanitized and 6ft social distance is required at all times. In addition, curbside assistance is available upon request.

The CRRC –Lawrenceville provides educational information about all types of cancers, gas cards to assist patients with transportation cost, and the wig salon The Reflections of You Salon, provides free wigs and make-up consultation with a licensed cosmetologist. The center also provides bras and prosthesis, hats, scarves, caps and head coverings.

Even in the mist of the pandemic the CRRC – Lawrenceville is still working to continue the effort of informing, educating and addressing barriers within the community. The CRRC provides organizations, stakeholders and community citizens with email blasts of webinars, FACEBOOK updates, COVID-19 testing sites, virtual Lunch and Learn, and information in the local Brunswick Times Gazette newspapers and surrounding papers.

In December 2020, The VCU Massey Cancer Center’s new Director, Dr. Robert Winn and colleague Dr. Katherine Tossas (Assistant Professor, Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Director for the Office of Catchment Area Data Access and Alignment Massey Cancer Center) payed a visit to Lawrenceville, Virginia. During the visit, Drs. Winn and Tossas met with a local grassroot organization, the Brunswick Health Ambassadors

(BHA), established in 2015 and focused on improving the health of Brunswick County Residence. They also toured the VCU Massey Cancer Research and Resource Center – Lawrenceville. The Center’s Coordinator, Teya J. Whitehead provided a guided tour of the facility, and shared historical information highlighting the myriad of services offered to Brunswick County citizens and individuals in the surrounding counties.

Dr. Robert Winn was appointed director of VCU Massey Cancer Center on December 2, 2019, he is currently the only AfricanAmerican Director of a National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center in the Nation.

The BHA members and Dr. Tossas discussed a new project “COALESCE”, an acronym stands for (Clinics and COmmunities TAckling RaciaL DisparitiEs Systemic in Cancer ScrEening). With Dr. Tossas as the Principal Investigator, COALESCE officially launched in January 2021, and engages five of Virginia’s Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) via a subaward process, in a 2-year quality improvement (QI) initiative to address systemic barriers to colorectal cancer (CRC) and cervical cancer (CCa) screening and diagnostic follow-up. Uniquely, FQHCs will conduct this QI process in partnership with a local community organization to ensure rich community intelligence is integrated into the QI process.

Our very own Brunswick Health Ambassadors, a partner community organization, and the local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Central Virginia Health Service located in Alberta, Virginia, received subawards and will be partnering to execute this initiative.

For more information on this project please contact VCU Massey Cancer Center | Research and Resource Center – Lawrenceville at 221 North Main Street, Lawrenceville, Virginia at (434) 532 – 8190 or email Teya J. Whitehead (Coordinator) at teya.whitehead@vcuhealth.org. •

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 27

VIRGINIA’S CIVIL RIGHTS IN EDUCATION HERITAGE TRAIL® EXPANDED Take a drive and explore history safely

V

By Bobby Conner

irginia’s Crossroads has expanded its groundbreaking Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail®. Twelve new sites have been added to the trail’s original 41 locations, expanding the stories which recount how African Americans, Native Americans and women fought for the right to equal education. Along with adding new sites, all 41 original markers have been updated with newly uncovered information and photos.

The Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail® was established in 2004, and is owned and managed by Virginia’s Crossroads, a tourism marketing consortium comprised of the localities of Amelia, Appomattox, Brunswick, Buckingham, Charlotte, Dinwiddie, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Nottoway, and Prince Edward, and also includes the City of Petersburg and Greensville/Emporia, Virginia State Parks and Appomattox Court House National Historical Park.

Brunswick County now has an additional site on the trail. Oak Grove School, which is located next to Oak Grove Baptist Church at 22331 Christanna Highway, north of Lawrenceville, has been added to the regional trail. In addition to the new site, the other original markers in the county have been updated with new interpretive panels. Those sites include Fort Christanna, James Solomon Russell-Saint Paul’s College Museum, Southside Virginia Community College, and the Hospital and School of The Good Shepard.

Virginia’s Crossroads is currently conducting an economic impact study for the trail. Each site now has a card on the marker that can be scanned by a smart phone. Once scanned, individuals can take a short survey which will register them to win a $100 gift card. People who visit the sites on the trail are encouraged to take the survey. If a visitor does not have a smart phone, a website is also provided on the card for the survey.

Many of the sites across the region have connections, like James Solomon Russell, who has ties to several sites on the trail.

He attended Bishop Payne Divinity School in Petersburg with the help of Patti Buford, who started the Hospital and School of the Good Shepherd in Brunswick County. He was assigned as an Episcopal priest in Lawrenceville, where he eventually established, in 1888, Saint Paul’s Normal and Industrial School, later known as

28 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | SPRING 2021

Saint Paul’s College. Saint Paul’s College trained many African American teachers who taught in schools throughout the region and state, including many of the schools included on the trail. He also was instrumental in the founding of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Mecklenburg County.

Brunswick County Tourism Coordinator, Dixie Walker, represents the county on the Virginia Crossroads board of directors and is glad to see the upgrades and new site in the county added to the trail and feels the trail will help bring more visitors to the county and region.

“Brunswick County is thrilled the expansion of the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail has come to fruition,” said Walker. “We are fortunate to have identified five contributing sites that are included in the self-guided trail, as tourists travel and explore the various sites along the trail throughout Brunswick, we also encourage them to explore our downtowns, historic sites and spend time taking in the great outdoors of Southern Virginia.”

Visiting the trail is a good example of something that can be done during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has greatly reduced traditional travel and tourism activities. Driving the trail provides social distancing and a safe way to enjoy traveling and being outdoors.

A host of directional signs and an updated brochure will help guide guests to each site. Brochures can be found at the visitor centers in many localities in Virginia, including the Virginia Welcome Centers.

They are also available at the Brunswick Byways Visitors Center located at 13516 Christanna Highway, Lawrenceville, Virginia.

For additional information on The Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail®, Civil War driving tours of the Route of Lee’s Retreat or Wilson-Kautz Raid, outdoor recreational opportunities, events, attractions and accommodations in South Central Virginia visit vacrossroads.com. •

BRUNSWICK COUNTY MUSEUM A COUNTY TREASURE

T

he Brunswick Museum & Historical Society, Inc. offers a look at the history of Brunswick County. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum is closed to the public but small tours can be arranged. Supporters of the museum hope to reopen the museum in the near future.

The museum houses three distinct display rooms. You’ll find exhibitions from the Civil War to include a cannon ball found on a Petersburg, Virginia battlefield that has since been donated by Mike Sadler. Not to mention, there is a 1948 silver communion set from Trinity St. Mark’s Church, memorabilia from our local fire and emergency services, and a room dedicated to well known individuals in Brunswick County, such as the late Governor Albertis S. Harrison, Jr., Sheriff James Woodley, and many more. There are many other exhibits that include the rich history on Fort Christanna that was established in 1714 and was the westernmost point of the British Empire. The museum even features a map of Brunswick County in 1720, but you’ll have to stop and see the importance of this prized possession.

Supporters are currently seeking volunteer docents to maintain the hours of the museum. Membership levels start at $15 for students, teachers, wand seniors over 65. Individual membership is $20 and the family membership is $40. There are various levels of membership for friends, patrons, historians, corporate businesses, and

memorial donations.

Brunswick Museum & Historical Society, Inc. sponsors many school programs for students of all ages and hostings of community organizations throughout the year.

If you would like to become a volunteer docent or join their membership, contact Rebecca Akers, President, at (434) 848-0964 or (434) 532-5759 or RTewims@aol.com. •

We can help you build a secure financial future for your business. * Business & real estate loans * Business Builder account * e-Banking for Business

Lawrenceville 220 W. 5th Ave. • 434-848-6552 www.bcbonline.com/business SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 29

434-848-9800 434-848-9800

“Serving Virginia “Serving All All of Southside Virginia & Lake Lake Country” & Proud to to be be named named one ders’ Proud one of Proud to oneRCeahof of Vootted oice Proud to callControl 2020 Reeaadde R 25 Pest Control 25 Pest errs 25 Pest Ch C Brunswick County hooiiccees’’ “Companies to “Companies Watch” 202 to Watch” “Companies Watch” 19 0 Home inthe the U.S. U.S. by

by PCT PCT Magazine in Magazine in the U.S. by PCT Magazine IInnddepepenen ddent-t-M M

esesssenenggerer’s’s

LAKE GASTON

DRAWS THOUSANDS FROM THE EAST COAST

L

ake Gaston celebrated its 50th birthday in 2013, with the original ribbon cutting being held on June 26, 1963.

In the years that have followed, the lake area has grown to become a desired destination for visitors as well as new residents.

Lake Gaston, which straddles the Virginia/North Carolina border between Interstates 95 and 85, is 35 miles in length, with approximately 350 miles of shoreline surrounding over 20,000 acres. The average depth of the lake is 45 feet with a maximum of 95 feet. It is the second lake in a series of three lakes resulting from dams built for hydroelectric power. Lake Gaston is fed by water from Kerr Lake to the west, and supplies water to Roanoke Rapids Lake downstream. The lake was built in the early 1960’s for flood control, hydroelectric power and recreation. A portion of Lake Gaston is located in Brunswick County along its southern border.

Lake Gaston offers ideal facilities for fishing, hunting, camping, boating and an array of water sports. There are no horsepower restrictions on the lake. Lake Gaston is stocked with game fish which include striped bass or rockfish, large mouth bass, bream, crappies, and several varieties of catfish and sunfish.

There is a Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries public boat launching ramp located just off Gasburg Road on Pea Hill Creek in Gasburg and another on Hendrick’s Mill Road at Poplar Creek just west of Ebony. Several marinas are located around the lake with one located on Hendrick’s Mill Road

at Poplar Creek.

Rental homes, from small cabins to larger homes that sleep six or more people, are available around the lake through the many real estate companies that serve the lake area. Camping is available at Lake Gaston Lodges and by membership at The Club, Lake Gaston Resort both located in Gasburg.

Many restaurants are located on both the Virginia and North Carolina sides of the lake.

They range from pizza and sub restaurants to elegant waterfront bistros. Golfing is available at Lake Gaston Golf Club

in Gasburg.

Local communities near the lake include Ebony and Gasburg in Virginia and Littleton and Norlina in North Carolina. Larger towns are in the outlying area and include Lawrenceville, South Hill, and Emporia in Virginia and Roanoke Rapids, Warrenton and Norlina in North Carolina. Within a little more than an hour’s drive are Raleigh and Rocky Mount in North Carolina and Petersburg and Richmond in Virginia.

Come enjoy some boating, fishing, sun and all the relaxation your heart, body and soul desire on beautiful Lake Gaston. •

Mayor, Curtis D. Williams

SPRING 2021 | EXPLORE BRUNSWICK | 31

The

C.A.R.E. Building (434) 584-CARE (2273) 1755 N. Mecklenburg Avenue | South Hill, VA 23970 | vcu-cmh.org

The name reflects the services offered in this comprehensive medical center. The C.A.R.E. Building, adjacent to VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital, is home to a wide variety of physician practices and offers convenient access to primary care and specialty physicians.

CMH Cardiology Services

Bethany Denlinger, MD Jayanthi Koneru, MD M. Khalid Mojadidi MD Cardiologist Cardiologist Cardiologist Electrophysiologist

CMH Family Dental Care

CMH Dermatology

Natasha Grover, DDS Dentist

Jade Kindley, MD Dermatologist

Nimesh Patel, MD Cardiologist

Kelly Barbour, MD IM/Pediatrician

CMH Pain Management Services

Manhal Saleeby, MD Anesthesiologist Pain Management

Peggie Powell Nurse Practitioner

CMH Urological Services

Stephen Ortlip, MD Urologist

John Pearson, MD Urologist

Binyam Dessie, MD Pediatrician

Saleem Naviwala, MD Otolaryngologist / ENT

Lynnette Reville Audiologist

CMH Orthopedic Services

CMH Family Care Services

Ahmad Jafar Ali, MD Family Medicine

CMH ENT & Allergy Services

Steven Foster, DO Family Medicine

Teresa Parham Nurse Practitioner

Mari Adams Physician Assistant

Khalid Hasan, MD Orhopedic Surgeon

CMH Women’s Health Services

CMH Surgical Services

Desiderio Rimon, MD General Surgeon

Michael Tozzi, DO General Surgeon

CMH Neurological Services

Yasir Al-Khalili, MD Neurologist

Vicky Kennedy Sreenvasulu Metikala, MD Madan Vallem, MD Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner Orthopedic Surgeon Surgeon

Yi Wei Zhang, MD General Surgeon

Darrell Brown, Jr., MD Ramesh Seeras, MD OB / GYN OB / GYN

Indu Shivaram, MD Pulmonologist

Terry Wootten Nurse-Midwife

Off Campus Locations

CMH Pulmonology Services

Amy Hobbs, FNP-C Nurse Practitioner

Katie Vemireddy OB / GYN

Jenea Bennett-Talley Nurse Practitioner Chase City Primary

Charles Nwoakocha, MD Kirk Hasenmueller, MD Family Medicine Internal Medicine Clarksville Family Chase City Primary