Beach Music Fest
Over four decades of celebrating summer, friends, and music
Patrick County, Virginia It’s more than a place to live… it’s a way of life.
SHINYRIBS
BIG DADDY LOVE TAE & THE NEIGHBORLY
HEALYSIDE TRIO FLY BY NIGHT FEATURING KYSER GEORGE
MIDNIGHT SPAGHETTI & THE CHOCOLATE G-STRINGS
THE FIREWATER TENT REVIVAL ERIN & THE WILDFIRE
THE JUDY CHOPS DIRK QUINN BAND BIG FAT GAP
THE DELUGE SCENIC RADIO FREAK RANGERS
NERD ALERT DROPPING JULIA THE DEER RUN DRIFTERS SLICK JR & THE REACTORS JESS KLEIN OH, CHRISTOPHER
GEORGE SMITH BAND HAZY MILL BORROWED EARTH RIGGS ROBERSON
AMBER C & G BILLY WOODS FPF ALL STAR FAMILY BAND
The Patrick County Magazine is published in partnership by the Patrick County Tourism Office and the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce. Spring 2026 / Vol. 5, No. 1
visitpatrickcounty.org
patrickchamber.com
For advertising information: Patrick County Chamber
410 Patrick Ave., Suite A Stuart, VA 24171
276-694-6012
For additional copies of the magazine, contact:
Patrick County Tourism 126 N. Main St. Stuart, VA 24171
276-693-2005
Chamber Director: Rebecca Adcock
Chamber Assistant: Sharon Williams
Director of Economic Development and Tourism: James Houchins
Tourism Marketing Manager: Grace Cooper
Tourism Administrative Assistant: Sue Kolljeski
Creative Director: David Stanley
Photographer: Kim Rakes
Design: SilverLining Design
Contributors: Kevin Hubbard, Kristin Hylton, Erica Stacey
Note: Please know that changes occur with attractions and businesses before Tourism or the Chamber are notified. We make every attempt to present accurate information, but contact businesses or attractions directly before making plans to visit.
The Cover: Since the 1980s, the Stuart Beach Music Festival has brought friends and family together to celebrate summer and good times.
Events Celebrate the founding of Virginia and our county on their 250th anniversary
Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution Lineage societies look to the past and support the future
Grinding Grain, Growing Community How mills shaped culture and economies in Patrick County Made with Pride in Patrick County Manufacturing
Where the Mountains Meet the Tide Coastal vibes beckon during the Summertime Beach Music Festival
Ruritan Clubs of Patrick County Uplift Their Communities Six clubs, one commitment to fellowship, goodwill and community service
For more than 60 years, Solutions That Empower People (STEP), Inc. has supported individuals and families in Franklin and Patrick counties, with limited services in Bedford County. Based in Rocky Mount, STEP helps people overcome adversity and improve their quality of life through community, economic, personal, and family development programs.
Updates from Tourism and the Chamber of Commerce
Welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of the Patrick County Magazine. Once again, our team has produced another outstanding edition—no easy feat given the time, collaboration, and creative vision required to bring each issue to life. This issue again shows the dedication of Chamber of Commerce director Rebecca Adcock and our “Marketing Guy” David Stanley, working with the right people to get it done. The photos and articles resonate with the splendor, history, and beauty of our great county, and Tourism is proud to support these efforts and bring this treasure to life. As you read the articles and flip through the pages, we hope you can feel our team’s passion and commitment to creating this magazine.
We are rural, real, engaged, and motivated. This edition highlights what makes our community unique—from the stories of those who have chosen to call Patrick County home, to the traditions and events that have shaped generations. I don’t want to give away too much, but when we had a need, you answered and blew my mind.
Hats off to each author and the photographers who have put their talents to work and made this a reality once again. So, sit back and grab your favorite beverage, take the magazine, and slowly glean from its pages. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a visitor for a little while, we hope you discover something new, something to love about Patrick County, and then share your experience. So come, get lost, and find yourself here in Patrick County, Virginia.
James Houchins Director of Economic Development and Tourism
People often ask me, “What sets Patrick County apart?” My answer is simple—our community. From the organizations that support our county to the individuals who are always ready to lend a helping hand, community runs deep here. It’s more than a value, it’s a way of life. That spirit is the overarching theme of this spring’s magazine.
As you turn these pages, you’ll see how community has shaped our past and continues to guide our future. From the historic mills that once dotted our landscape—serving not only as centers of industry but also as gathering places—to the manufacturing facilities that still thrive today because strong local support, connection has always been at our core.
Even our celebrations reflect this shared spirit. Many of our festivals and events are rooted in giving back, serving as fundraisers for the organizations that strengthen our communities. The Beach Music Festival, started by the Jaycees and now managed by the Rotary Club, is just one example, alongside the many Ruritan clubs across the county working tirelessly to support their neighbors.
I hope you enjoy this issue and discover something new about Patrick County. And whether you’re visiting for a short time or considering making this place your home, know this—community runs deep here, and there’s always a place for you in it.
Rebecca Adcock Chamber of Commerce Director
Doors open at 5:00 pm. Music at 6:00 pm • Donations at the door Food available • For more information call Denny Alley - 276-694-4232
Spring 2026 shows will be at The
JANUARY 24, 2026
Jordan Morrison & The Foothill Boys
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Cornbread Revival
MARCH 28, 2026
Twin Creeks Stringband
APRIL 25, 2026
The Country Boys
MAY 23, 2026
Barry Collins & The Mudflappers
JUNE 27, 2026
Starlett & The Bluegrass Knights
A
premiere
destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia
Patrick County Music Association presents
Songwriter’s Circle Series
Doors open at 5:00 pm $10 Tickets can be purchased at the Coffee Break, Tourism Visitors Center, and Quilted Colors
With ticket purchase you also gain free access to the museum from 4:00pm - 6:00pm
JUNE 6, 2026
DANA huNt black
Also Featuring: Featuring:
A North Carolina native who wrote “Check Yes or No” and “Write This Down” for George Strait. “It Would Be You” for Gary Allen and many other songs for artists such as Suzy Bogguss, Alan Jackson, Clay Walker, and others.
Will Hutchens Johnny Joyce Charlie McCurry at Virginia Motorsports Museum & Hall of Fame Auditorium
Roger Handy Miller Hopkins Barry Hutchens
Your journey to the Blue Ridge Parkway starts with our 61 luxurious, full hook-up RV sites and comes with long-range mountain views, fast WiFi internet, and these other amenities:
• Pavilion
• Heated pool
• Laundry room
• Dog park
• Custom private luxury bathrooms
• Dog washing station
7530 Jeb Stuart Hwy., Meadows of Dan, VA (276)222-3333 • theoaksrvresort.us
Stuart, VA
Winter 2026 shows will be at Patrick County High School, Stuart, VA
Hooker Building at Rotary Field, Stuart, VA
Nickelston Industries, Inc. was established in February of 2000 by President, Sheree H. Nickelston. Nickelston Industries, Inc. is located in Lawsonville, North Carolina. Nickelston Industries, Inc. also has an office and shop in Lebanon, VA and a yard in Stuart, VA.
Nickelston Industries, Inc. specializes in Highway Fence and Guardrail. Nickelston Industries, Inc. is prequalified, licensed and DBE/WBE certified in Virginia and North Carolina.
Our services include Highway Guardrail, Highway Guiderail, Timber Barrier, Soft Wall, Traffic Control, End Treatments and Impact Attenuators, Highway & Commercial Fencing, and Hauling.
Nickelston Industries, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
By Richard Landis
The Life Aviation Has Given Me
My name is Richard Landis, and aviation has been woven into the fabric of my life for as long as I can remember. Today, at 72 years old, I spend my retirement doing what I love most— flying, but that journey began decades ago at the family dinner table. My father was a veteran who served during World War II as a radio radar operator on B-29 bombers. He flew 29 missions over Japan, and the stories he told left a lasting impression on me. Growing up, nearly every conversation in our house seemed to revolve around airplanes—different aircraft, airshows we had attended or trips we were planning to take. Looking back, that constant exposure to aviation planted a seed that would shape the rest of my life.
As a kid, I became fascinated with remote-controlled airplanes. I spent countless hours building them, flying them and learning how they worked. That hobby never left me—I still fly RC planes today—and it sparked my desire to fly full-scale airplanes. When I was about 15 or 16, I started taking flying lessons. Because I had spent so much time flying RC aircraft, the controls and coordination felt natural to me. I ended up soloing after only about nine hours of instruction. (The average is 10 to
15 hours.) Soon after, while I was a freshman in college, I earned my pilot’s license.
Life moved quickly after that. I graduated, got married and bought my first home. But before we even had furniture—other than a bed—my wife and I bought our first airplane, a Cessna 152. That purchase might have seemed unusual to some people, but for me it made perfect sense. Flying had already become a central part of who I was.
Years later, as retirement began to approach, I started thinking about what my ideal life would look like. I knew one thing for certain: aviation had to remain at the center of it. At the time, we were living about 30 miles north of New York City, and I dreamed of finding a place with enough land that I could fly remote-controlled airplanes right in my backyard. My wife and I spent several years searching across the country—in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Arizona, and beyond— looking for the right property.
Then one day we drove onto a piece of land in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Before we even reached the house, I noticed something that immediately caught my
attention: a windsock. As a pilot, I knew exactly what that might mean. Sure enough, there was an old runway on the property. It wasn’t in great shape, and neither was the house, but I knew right away this was something special.
After purchasing the property in 2015, we spent several years renovating the house while still living in New York. Eventually we moved to Virginia full time, and I began improving the airstrip and building a new hangar. Today the property—now known as Flying Horseman Ranch, or Landis Airport—is my personal slice of heaven.
These days I fly far more than I ever could when I was working. I typically log between 300 and 400 hours a year, which still amazes me, considering I once struggled to fly even 20 hours annually.
I often tell people that I’m living the dream, and I truly mean it. Sharing the experience with my son, Dan, and with family, friends, and neighbors makes it even better. The only thing that could have made it more special would have been having my fa-
ther here to see it. He’s the one who started it all. Even so, every time I take off from this little runway in the foothills of Patrick County (a very special place) I feel incredibly grateful for the life aviation has given me.
Richard will host a weekend fly-in on May 16, 2026 in Patrick Springs where anywhere between 100 and 200 planes take off and land at Flying Horseman Ranch, or Landis Airport as it appears on maps. One year, they coordinated a flyover during the high school graduation ceremony. They have truly made themselves home here.
“Find Yourself Here” is a guest column from someone who is either from the county or has moved to the county about why they love it here. If you are interested in writing a column in a subsequent issue or know someone we should highlight, please contact us at director@patrickchamber.com.
Planes lined up while one takes off.
Richard leaving a smoke trail during one weekend of fun.
A long line of friends and family enjoying food and the show.
Some of the planes during a previous fly-in weekend.
County & Attractions Map
Patrick County Visitors Center
126 N. Main Street, Stuart, VA
276-693-2005
www.visitpatrickcounty.org
Meadows of Dan Visitors Center - MP 177.7 2577 J.E.B. Stuart Highway Meadows of
276-694-6012 www.patrickchamber.com
PATRICK
410 Patrick Ave., Suite A, Stuart, VA 276-694-6012 www.patrickchamber.com
Fridays
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Local News Matters. Local Journalism Deserves Your Support.
Your community has a story —and we’re here to tell it.
Where the Community comes to shop
Downtown Stuart Where the Community Comes to Shop
WINNER for Best Farmers Market in the Best of the Blue Ridge contest from Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine
Local newspapers do more than report the news. We hold public officials accountable. We cover your children’s school events, your neighbor’s business milestone, and your community’s toughest moments. When decisions are made that affect your roads, your taxes, or your rights, we’re in the room—to make sure you have a seat at the table.
But quality journalism doesn’t happen by accident. It takes time, resources, and the dedication of people who live and work in the same communities they report on.
When you subscribe to your local newspaper, you’re investing in transparency, trust, and the power of an informed public. You’re ensuring that the truth is told—and that it’s told by someone who knows your community, not an algorithm or an out-of-town network.
Support your local newsroom. Subscribe today. Because if we don’t tell your story… who will?
BOULDIN PLUMBING
Sarah Foley - 276-692-6455
Owner/Massage Therapist/Spray Tans
Tina Layman - 276-692-5954
Esthetician
Kerri Rakes - 276-692-6412
Nail/Wax Tech
Bouldin, Jr.
It’s happening
22-24
APRIL
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday
10 Jordan T. Morrison & The Foothill Boys
8:00-10:30pm at Star Theatre
11 Kid’s Fishing Day on Mayo River Rail Trail Stuart at the Mayo River Rail Trail
11 Free Community Movie: The Secret Life of Pets
2:00pm and 6:00pm at Star Theatre
17-18 The Living Storybook:Peter Pan
7:00-9:00pm at Star Theatre
24 Yacht Rock with Empty Bottles
8:00-10:30pm at Star Theatre
25 Patrick County Music Association
6:00pm at the Stuart Rotary Building
28 Willis Gap Golden Oldies
6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
MAY
Mon. Market Mondays
5:00 - 7:00pm at Fairy Stone State Park
Fri. Stuart Farmers Market
8:00am - Noon every Friday
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday
1 First Fridays Summer Concert Series
6:00pm at Stuart Farmers Market
2 Blue Ridge Jeep Fest Rotary Field, Stuart
9 Music on the Lawn with Kat Mills
3:00pm at Reynolds Homestead
9 Erin & The Wildfire
8:00-10:30pm at Star Theatre
9 Shakedown Ararat BullRing Race Track
16 Stuart Strawberry Festival
10:00-4:00 in Uptown Stuart
17 From Field to Table: Farmstead Foodways
1:00-4:00pm at Reynolds Homestead
Gospel Music at Dominion Valley Park
Friday-Sunday Memorial Day Weekend
23 Patrick County Music Association 6:00pm at the Stuart Rotary Building
26 Willis Gap Golden Oldies
6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
JUNE
Mon. Market Mondays
5:00 - 7:00pm at Fairy Stone State Park
Fri. Stuart Farmers Market
8:00am - Noon every Friday
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday
5 First Fridays Summer Concert Series
6:00pm at Stuart Farmers Market
6 PCMA presents Songwriter’s Circle
5:00pm at P&HCC Auditorium
6 Movies in the Park
Dan River Park - Minecraft
6 Cruisin’ with the Cougars Rotary Field, Stuart
11-13
Beach Music Festival
Thursday-Sunday at WaysidePark
11-13 FWD King’s Ransom
Ararat BullRing Race Track
14 Freedom & Resilience: Stories of Emancipation
1:00-4:00pm at Reynolds Homestead
19 Juneteenth Celebration
Reynolds Homestead
27 Movies in the Park
Patrick Springs Park - Superman
27 Patrick County Music Association
6:00pm at the Stuart Rotary Building
27 Ultimate Stampede
Ararat BullRing Race Track
29 VA250 Event
30
Laurel Hill, Ararat
VA250 Event
Reynolds Homestead, Critz
30 Willis Gap Golden Oldies
6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
in Patrick County
JULY
Mon. Market Mondays
5:00 - 7:00pm at Fairy Stone State Park
Fri. Stuart Farmers Market
8:00am - Noon every Friday
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday
1-2 VA250 Event
Fairy Stone State Park
3 First Fridays Summer Concert Series
6:00pm at Stuart Farmers Market
4 Vesta Community Center Fourth of July Vesta Community Center
4 Fourth of July Celebration DeHart Park in Stuart
4 Red, White & Vroom! Ararat BullRing Race Track
8 We Impact Virginia Regional event
10:00am at Reynolds Homestead
12 Summer on the Homestead: Porch Culture
1:00-4:00pm at Reynolds Homestead
18 Kibler Valley River Run
Dan River in Kibler Valley
18 Movies in the Park
I.C. Dehart Park in Woolwine - Goat
28 Willis Gap Golden Oldies
6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
25 Movies in the Park Dehart Park in Stuart- The Grinch
AUGUST
Mon. Market Mondays
5:00 - 7:00pm at Fairy Stone State Park
Fri. Stuart Farmers Market
8:00am - Noon every Friday
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday
1 BullRing Brawl Ararat BullRing Race Track
7 First Fridays Summer Concert Series 6:00pm at Stuart Farmers Market 9 Crafted by Hand: Appalachian Artisan Day 1:00-4:00pm at Reynolds Homestead 15 Meadows of Dan Folk Fair 10:00am-4:00pm in Meadows of Dan
Wayfest 2026
4:00-9:30pm Dominion Valley Park
Movies in the Park Mountain Top Park in Meadows of Dan - Zootopia 2
Ararat Dirt Nationals Ararat BullRing Race Track
Willis Gap Golden Oldies 6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
VA Classic Ararat BullRing Race Track
SEPTEMBER
Mon. Market Mondays
5:00 - 7:00pm at Fairy Stone State Park
Fri. Stuart Farmers Market
8:00am - Noon every Friday
Fri. Willis Gap Community Center Open Jam
6:00pm every Friday
Sun. Reynolds Homestead Home Tours
1:00-4:00pm Every Sunday 3-6 Front Porch Fest Thursday-Sunday at Spirithaven Farm 4-6 Dominion Valley Gospel
Labor Day Weekend
Derby Rotary Field, Stuart
County Agricultural Fair
at Stuart Rotary
Dirt Track Wars Ararat BullRing Race Track 26 Doe Run Sunflower Maze Doe Run Farm, Ararat. Open 7 days a week
Bushels & Barrels Farm-to-Table Brunch Reynolds Homestead
29 Willis Gap Golden Oldies 6:00pm at Willis Gap Community Center
An award winning Life Plan Community for those 55 and better, King’s Grant is for people who are not finished becoming. It is a place to live independently now with the foresight to plan ahead without giving up momentum.
Life here is active and self-directed, with future levels of living thoughtfully built in should needs ever change. No disruption. No reinvention. Just continuity in a community that moves with you.
Spring reminds us that life is still unfolding. At King’s Grant, that belief shapes everything.
Schedule your personal tour of our pet-friendly community today!
Patrick County Historical Society’s monument honoring those who fought in the American Revolutionary War. It is placed at the Patrick County Library and was funded by John Wesley Martin.
The Celebration of America’s 250th Birthday
Monday, 6/29
Laurel Hill
Tuesday, 6/30
Reynolds Homestead
Wednesday & Thursday, 7/1-7/2
Fairy Stone State Park
Friday, 7/3
Town of Stuart, & Woolwine Ruritans
Saturday, 7/4
Meadows of Dan Ruritans and Dehart Park in Stuart
Sunday, 7/5: TBD
photo courtesy of Monica Mari e Photography
SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
COLONEL GEORGE WALLER
CHAPTER
By Bernard J. Nolan, Jr. Member of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The SAR is a non-profit, non-partisan organization with more than 550 chapters across the United States and Internationally. The Sons of the American Revolution houses one of the nation’s premier genealogical libraries.
The Sons of the American Revolution honor our Revolutionary Patriots by promoting patriotism, service to our communities, educating, and inspiring future generations concerning the founding principles of our country.
Any male, ages 18 and above, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, and can prove their blood lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership.
The local chapter, the Colonel George Waller Chapter SAR, was chartered on August 15, 1958, and is one of seven Chapters in the Frontier Region. This Chapter includes members of Martinsville, Henry County, Patrick County and serves portions of Franklin County, Floyd County and Pittsylvania County.
Colonel George Waller was a notable figure in the American Revolutionary War. He was born in Stafford County, Virginia around 1734. He became a landowner, patriot and early settler in Henry County, Virginia. He trained Penn’s Regiment, a militia unit, on a drill field near the Smith River. The Regiment was named for Abram Penn, a prominent military commander in this area.
George Waller was promoted to Ensign on September 25, 1775. In March 1781, Waller marched a detachment of three companies from Henry County Militia to Hillsborough, North Carolina to support General Edward Stevens in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse.
Although this battle was a draw, Ensign Waller was promoted and received a Commission as Colonel of Militia.
Colonel Waller was also present at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia. This marked a significant turning point in the war.
The primary focus of the Chapter is the identification and commemoration of patriot graves. Through genealogical and field research, members ensure that the
Interior of the Patrick County Historical Museum
final resting places of Revolutionary War soldiers are honored with formal SAR markers and/or monuments. Dedications can also involve wreath laying and Color Guard participation.
The Chapter maintains an active presence in Regional Commemorations and Living History events throughout the year.
The Chapter acts as a “civic spotlight” recognizing contemporary contributions in the community by an Awards Program. areas include, but not limited to, public safety, good citizenship, youth development and patriotic advocacy are open for consideration as potential candidates in this award program.
The Colonel George Waller Chapter fosters strong bonds among its members and supports close partnership with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Through joint meetings, genealogical research support and modern digital outreach, the Chapter ensures that the “Spirit of ‘76” remains a vibrant, relevant and resilient part of the local community.
References: National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution and Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution
Daughters of the American Revolution
By Ann McConnell
The Daughters of the American Revolution, founded in 1890, is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for children.
Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible to join the DAR. The DAR has nearly 190,000 active members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide.
On February 25, 1950, eighteen women gathered at the Stuart, Virginia home of Annie Sue Fulton Clark and organized the Colonel Abram Penn Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Thirteen of those charter members are descendants of Colonel Penn. Today nineteen members now make up the Chapter with 13 American patriots represented. We welcome new members and are ready to help with genealogical research.
Through the years, members of the Chapter have contributed to the restoration of Patrick County Will Books and other Virginia court books. Members of the community have benefited from genealogical workshops provided by the Chapter.
Members have participated in placing markers and wreath laying ceremonies for soldiers from the Revolutionary War, World War I and II, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. Donations are given to and members participate in Wreaths Across America. Chapter members often clean the grave markers at the Penn family cemetery as well as headstones of deceased members at other cemeteries.
The Chapter participates in local festivals and parades. Veterans who are residents at long term care facilities are remembered with cards and favors on holidays.
The Chapter continues to provide Youth Leadership Awards to outstanding seventh grade students as well as to an
outstanding high school senior. Monetary donations along with donations of school supplies have been presented to DAR schools and Indian schools. The United States Flag and Constitution Week are each honored yearly with displays at the local public library.
Several members volunteer as poll workers at voting precincts as well as volunteers at food banks. We have donated Birthday Cake Kits to the local food bank.
The longevity of this Chapter lies not only in its strength but in its tenacity and a pledge to historic preservation, education and patriotism. Remarkable women continue to support the Chapter with a love for and a commitment to America. Daughters of the Colonel Abram Penn Chapter have and will continue to serve and make a difference in their community.
For more information about DAR please contact Ann McConnell at nammcconnell@yahoo.com
Member of the Colonel Abram Penn Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution
communities, businesses and organizations that power Virginia. providing a brighter future for our state is stronger than ever.
WHERE HISTORY COMES ALIVE
hours:
patcovahistory.org
Creative
Homeschool
Memberships
Grinding Grain,Growing Community
By Erica Stacy
Not long ago, in Southwest Virginia, nearly every rural community had a grist mill. These mills shaped local economies and technology while influencing the social, cultural and environmental life of developing Appalachian settlements.
Some were small, others large. Some ground only corn, while others milled flour or produced other products. Many relied on
waterpower to turn their machinery. All were essential—often serving as the center of community life, where neighbors gathered to trade goods, exchange news and share stories.
Today, the remaining buildings and rusted equipment stand as both tribute and reminder—markers of a different rhythm of life.
Sheppard’s Mill, originally called Critz Mill and then Dobbin’s Mill, began operating in the 1880s but was torn down and rebuilt to this state in 1937.
In a March 15, 2025, article for Home Stratosphere titled “17 Fascinating Gristmill Towns in Virginia that Still Turn to the Past,” John Goodman wrote:
“Virginia’s gristmill towns aren’t just echoes of industry; they are living, breathing places where history isn’t just preserved—it lingers. You can see it in the worn brick storefronts, in the iron machinery left to rust beside a riverbank, in the locals who speak of millers like they left town last week. … these places carry the old rhythms of the land.
Some have faded into the past, others have reinvented themselves, but all still hold the weight of time in their bones.”
Mabry Mill, one of the most iconic stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway, is in Floyd County, bordering Patrick County. The carefully preserved structures at the site offer visitors a unique window into history.
“Abundant access to creeks and rivers supported the development of numerous mills over the history of the communities and towns in Patrick County,” said John Reynolds, president of the Patrick County Historical Society. “Some operated similarly to Mabry Mill, while others incorporated different technologies of the time to grind corn and grain, to cut lumber, or to create other needed products.”
Patrick County Heritage, Vol. 1, pages 62-65 and other historic resources available in the Patrick County Museum offer stories from local families that record the history of the local mills and highlight anecdotes from the families and residents associated with their operation. Some of the mills noted include Hylton Mill, Kelly Mill, Shough Mill, Stuart Mill, Kendrick Mill, and Baliles/Agee Mill. Most of the mills carried the names of the families that managed their operation.
Personal accounts from the book indicate that the mills were sometimes used for less than noble purposes.
Raymond Vipperman of Stuart recounts: “My brother, Posey Vipperman, Jr. was the primary “miller” at Vipperman’s Mill from about 1940 to 1951. Saturdays were busy and especially those when our father would be at church.
“Sometimes a bag or two of “corn malt” would be ground to aid in the production of whiskey by the owners. The huge sum of $1.00 per bushel was enough to insure [sic] my brother’s silence. The normal ‘charge’ for grinding was one gallon of grain per bushel.”
Stories like Vipperman’s offer a candid glimpse into the lived realities of mill life—where commerce, community trust, and quiet arrangements sometimes intertwined. They remind us that mills were not distant industrial operations, but family-run enterprises woven into the fabric of everyday rural life.
Behind every waterwheel was a network of livelihoods, ingenuity and shared experience. The steady turning of millstones reflected something larger—the economic, technological and cultural forces shaping Patrick County itself.
Economics, Technology and Culture
A mill in a rural setting often signified economic prosperity. It processed essential raw materials such as grain, cotton and timber, which allowed farmers to handle their produce directly rather than traveling for processing. The mills also attracted other merchants, craftsmen and laborers, creating hubs for trade.
“Among my siblings who were born at and lived at the mill on the North Mayo River, north of Critz, during the Great Depression,” Reynolds said, “one remarked that although they were poor and experienced hard times like many others, they at least had plenty of good, fresh cornmeal to make cornbread every day thanks to the toll collected from grinding every bushel. With a big garden and catching fish out of the mill pond—where they
enjoyed cool swims in the summertime, too—they did not lack food.”
Technologies such as water wheels and, later, steam engines were at the cutting edge of engineering of their time and contributed significantly to mill production efficiency. Mills were also hubs for the exchange of ideas and techniques, fostering a culture of innovation that benefitted agricultural and industrial progress.
Mills also helped communities create a collective identity and shared culture by bringing people together who might otherwise have been geographically isolated. Events such as markets, fairs and other gatherings often centered around the mills.
But for all their benefits, the mills of the time were also vulnerable to flooding, drought and other environmental challenges.
“They were built close to water because they relied on that for power,” explained Reynolds. “So, if the area flooded, so did the mills. And our local history recounts such losses.”
A Closer Look at a Few of the Local Mills from the Region
Cockram Mill is a historic grist mill near Meadows of Dan. Built by Jesse Blackard around 1885 and originally known as Blackard’s Mill, it still stands as a rectangular frame building adjacent to a concrete dam on the headwaters of the Dan River. It was operated by two metal turbine wheels that could run three sets of millstones, one each for corn, rye and buckwheat. As well as grinding, the mill also made a variety of products that were then sold to small
stores in the region. The facility also included a planer and a box factory.
In 1921, W. E. Cockram purchased the mill, and in the 1930s, he built an electric generator house at the dam to supply electricity for twelve households.
In later years, Cockram Mill was home to the Dan River Queen, a local riverboat. The space later housed Crooked Road Cafe and then Longfin Grill restaurant. Just over two years ago, investors purchased the mill buildings with plans to open a brewing company.
On Little Goblintown Creek, near the intersection of Virginia secondary Routes 704 and 705 in Patrick County, Goblintown Mill consists of a gristmill, built in the 1850s, and a combination general store and dwelling house, circa 1902. During the second half of the 19th century, the mill provided grain processing services. With the addition of the general store, the property’s role in the community broadened to that of a social center.
Also known as Turner’s Mill, Wood’s Mill, Walker’s Mill, and Martin’s Mill, Goblintown Mill was constructed by Lewis Turner and his son-in-law, Henry Harden Hall. The mill operated until sometime in the 1950s. George Charlie Cox began restoration of the mill in 1999, and, in 2004, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Cooper’s Mill, in Critz, was established in 1871 by William Herbert Cooper, who used a wooden dam on Spoon Creek for power. Around 1920, Benjamin Herbert Cooper, son of William Herbert Cooper, purchased a five-by-twelve-foot steel water wheel in Nelson County to upgrade the operation and crafted the required wheels, cogs and shafts to run the wheel. He also installed a hammer mill to grind feed.
Left to right, Cooper’s Mill in the Critz area and the George Mill in downtown Stuart.
During the 1937 flood, part of the dam was washed out, so Benjamin Herbert Cooper hauled logs on horse-drawn wagons to a small sawmill where new timbers were cut to repair the dam. Following his death, Cooper’s daughter, Nannie Ruth Cooper Terry, and her husband, N. C. Terry, took over operation of Cooper’s Mill.
Located in Patrick County, within sight of the North Carolina state line, Shepard’s Mill was owned and operated by Irvin and Minnie Shepard and their son Joel. They also operated a general store across the gravel road. Hurricane Agnes ripped through the area in June 1972, breaching the dam that provided the reservoir to power the mill.
Williams Mill once operated from the location near what is now the Walgreen’s building in downtown Stuart. Built in the 1880s, the mill burned in 1884. The land got tied up in a lawsuit for about 15 years, before William H. Clark was able to attain a clean deed and built another mill on the property around 1900. Clark sold the mill to Robert George in 1903, and it became known as the George Mill. It was later sold to T.J. “Tom” George who ran it until around 1954. O.E. Pilson described George Mill as likely the largest of its kind in Patrick County.
Though most of Patrick County’s mills have long since fallen silent—their dams breached, their wheels stilled by flood or time—their imprint remains.
Mills shaped the county’s economy, anchored its communities and carried forward generations of family stewardship. Along creeks and riverbanks, in weathered timbers and handhewn beams, the story of Patrick County still turns—a steady reminder that long before highways and power lines, it was water and will that powered a community.
Information for this article was obtained from the books and articles cited as well various online sources including the Society for the Preservation of Old Mills (SPOOM), the National Historic Register, Wikipedia and Google.
Where the Wheels Once Turned
Known mill sites recorded across Patrick County’s waterways. Numerous mills have operated in Patrick County over time. Drafting a comprehensive list is difficult because the mills changed names as they changed ownership, and some of the information is not available in locally written historical accounts of the communities they served. A map of Patrick County by John Wood published in 1821, showed the location of 21 mills.
Mills in the following list are recorded in ‘Patrick County Heritage, Vol. 1”, which is available at the Patrick County Historical Museum. The book features information about the ownership of each mill as well as anecdotes from family, friends, and longtime residents of the community.
Baliles/Agee Mill
Clifton Gristmill
Hanby Mill
Hylton Mill
Gilbert’s Mill
Kelly Mill
Kendrick Mill
Mitchell’s Mill
Shuff Mill
Stuart’s Mill
Williams Mill
Vipperman’s Mill
Left to right, Cockram Mill near Meadows of Dan and Goblintown Mill in the eastern part of the county
Ten Oaks
By Erica Stacy
Manufacturing That Powers Families, Innovation and Opportunity
In Patrick County, manufacturing is more than an industry— it is a promise. A promise that families can build a life close to home, that parents can work without long commutes, and young people can find opportunity without leaving the mountains they love. A promise that the same landscape visitors travel miles to experience can remain not only visually beautiful, but also economically vibrant.
For thriving rural communities, local financial success is created in just two ways—by growing it or by building it. Agriculture and manufacturing form the foundation. Unlike many sectors that simply circulate dollars, manufacturing creates new wealth by producing goods that reach far beyond county lines. That revenue flows back into local grocery stores, restaurants, churches and civic organizations—multiplying its impact and strengthening the tax base that supports schools, emergency services and infrastructure.
In Patrick County, that impact is deeply personal. Many manufacturers are family-owned or locally led, built by people willing to take a chance on an idea and invest in the place they call home. Their employees are neighbors. Their success is shared across generations, helping keep families rooted in the same communities.
Manufacturing is alive and well here—although it looks far different than it once did. Technology has advanced and demand has shifted. Today’s companies are innovative, adaptive and forward-looking, yet still deeply rooted in the communities they help sustain and in the values that define rural life.
Aerial Machine & Tool Corporation
Engineering Life-Saving Solutions from Patrick County
Founded in 1926 and relocated to Patrick County in 1988, Aerial Machine & Tool Corporation manufactures custom-engineered aviation combat equipment and water survivability solutions that protect military personnel and first responders across the globe.
Among its most critical products are emergency breathing systems—compact scuba-style bottles carried by pilots, aircrew and passengers who may face underwater egress emergencies. These systems are reset every two years and maintained on a 15-year life cycle, with some models requiring hydrostatic testing and inspection every five years.
Beyond breathing systems, Aerial produces hundreds of highly technical sewn products along with water flotation devices and collars—all designed to perform in some of the world’s most dangerous operating environments.
In July 2025, the company announced a $781,000 expansion to create its Next Generation Breathing Technology Center.
In a press release about the expansion, Aerial’s President and CEO Thomas Weidley said:
“For decades, Aerial has provided survivability solutions to military personnel and first responders, including emergency breathing systems and their accompanying support/sustainment equipment. … This center is exactly what we need to keep our team and our host, Patrick County, at the forefront of technology development in this critical, life-saving area for the nation.”
The new facility will house equipment to design, manufacture and test both existing and next-generation emergency breathing and supplemental oxygen systems. Just as importantly, it will support upskilling and cross-training development for Aerial’s existing workforce while opening doors for new employees.
Aerial maintains strong relationships with large government prime contractors and serves as a vital link in the global supply chain—proof that life-saving innovation can be designed and built right here in rural Virginia.
Insight Textiles (An Apex Mills Company) Innovating Fabrics, Sustaining Local Jobs
The textile story in Woolwine stretches back generations. In the early 1950s, Easthampton Rubber Thread Company, a division of United Elastic Corporation, constructed four man-
ufacturing facilities in the Patrick County region, including the location that remains in operation today.
Over the decades, the facility has operated under several wellknown names, including JP Stevens, Liberty Fabrics, Courtaulds Textiles, Sara Lee and Hanesbrands. Expansions in 1957, 1966 and 2002 increased production capacity and modernized equipment.
Today, the operation is known as Insight Textiles, an Apex Mills Company, and employs 68 people—most of them from Patrick County and the surrounding area.
While many textile operations across the region have declined in recent decades, Insight has remained resilient by staying closely aligned with industry shifts and customer demands.
“The facility has the ability to adapt its product mix to meet changing market needs,” said Jimmy Dollarhite, plant manager. “In recent years, we’ve transitioned from primarily supplying intimate apparel and shapewear fabrics to focusing more on industrial applications. Today, we produce a wide range of fabrics used in sporting goods, military, fire and rescue, and aerospace industries.”
Automation continues to play an increasing role in operations, particularly in dyeing, finishing, and packaging processes.
“To stay competitive, Insight has made consistent investments in its dyeing and finishing capabilities over the past two decades,” Dollarhite said. “These investments have allowed us to maintain a state-of-the-art operation.”
Looking ahead, the company is exploring additional advancements, including camera-based fabric inspection systems, automated packing solutions, and continued improvements in dyeing technology.
“Manufacturing in the United States will always be important—especially in rural communities like Patrick County,” Dollarhite added. “Facilities like ours have provided stable employment here for more than half a century. Insight and Apex Mills are committed to continuing that legacy, so future generations have the opportunity to work and live locally if they choose.”
Kreager Woodworking Handcrafted Heritage, Built to Last
Founded more than 40 years ago by Larry Kreager, Kreager Woodworking Inc. has grown from humble beginnings as a custom woodworking shop into one of the largest frame manufacturers for upholstered furniture in the United States. What began with handcrafted wood artwork and cabinetry in Patrick County, Virginia, has evolved into a large-scale, fast-paced precision-driven manufacturing operation that is still proudly owned and operated by its founder today.
Utilizing advanced CNC router technology, Kreager Woodworking Inc. produces component parts for more than a quarter of a million sofas, loveseats, sectionals and recliners each year. From small-scale craftsmanship to high-volume production, the company blends traditional woodworking values with modern efficiency and consistency—all while maintaining its family-owned values.
The frames cut in Patrick County can be found inside furniture in stores throughout the United States. Behind that national reach is a team of hardworking local men and women who form the backbone of the company. Their dedication, skill and strong work ethic continue to drive Kreager Woodworking Inc. forward, proving that rural manufacturing can grow, scale, and lead at a national level while remaining deeply rooted in its community.
Mechanical Designs of Virginia
Precision Metal. Local Pride.
Established in 1983 as a 10,800-square-foot machine shop with a handful of machinists, Mechanical Designs of Virginia has grown into a 45,000-square-foot facility employing more than 30 people.
“We provide our comprehensive portfolio of metal fabrication services to companies across various industries,” said Wayne Gilley, president. “Our skilled employees have more than 500
Insight Textiles Mechanical Designs of Virginia
combined years of highly diverse experience that encompasses a broad range of CNC machining processes and sheet metal fabrication methods.”
The company’s in-house services include CNC laser cutting, milling, turning, punching, press brake services, certified MIG, TIG and resistance welding, surface grinding, sheet metal shearing, powder coating, part assembly and more—a full-service operation under one roof.
According to Gilley, continued growth is rooted in one principle.
“We always put quality first,” he said. “We follow stringent in-house quality management protocols. We understand that reducing costs and shortening lead times does not mean cutting corners.”
Mechanical Designs has remained committed to employing local residents and investing in equipment that keeps the company competitive while strengthening Patrick County’s industrial base.
Nancy’s Candy
Sweet Success, Made in Meadows of Dan
Nancy Galli founded Nancy’s Candy in her home kitchen in Meadows of Dan in 1987. Since 2014, Gary and Jessica Sturm have owned and operated the business, benefiting from Galli’s mentorship and support.
“The company began because I have a big sweet tooth and thought it would be a good business,” said Galli. “The first product we developed was fudge. Production expanded after a few years to include chocolates ... then original recipe snack mixes ... and today, we have over 50 flavors of fudge, more than 75 varieties of handmade chocolates and more than 50 flavors of truffles.”
The current factory, which opened on July 1, 1999, employs 35 team members including 25 full-time employees. Nancy’s Candy products are distributed across the United States and Canada through candy shops, gift stores, gourmet shops, online catalogs, convenience stores, florists, tourist attractions and department stores.
But for locals and visitors alike, the Factory Candy Store remains the real treat.
“Our Factory Candy Store is a destination for tourists along the Blue Ridge Parkway
and helps bring visitors to Meadows of Dan,” Galli said. “What’s more fun than to feel like a kid in a candy store?”
Despite their continuing success, Galli admits that there are many challenges for small businesses in rural communities.
“Small companies like ours no longer exist as manufacturers,” she said. “Most new specialty food/candy companies rely on large manufacturers to make their product. As a result, our supply chain has become very challenging.”
Nancy’s Candy participates in community activities, donates to local causes, supports Junior Achievement and contributes to the county’s tax base—helping fund schools and public services.
“Being in a rural community is a plus,” said Galli. “Because this is home, we have a commitment to succeed that extends well beyond a profit and loss statement. It’s about being a good neighbor. We have a small, but hardworking labor pool, a family atmosphere, and we understand fully the importance of maintaining jobs.”
Narroflex
Narrow Fabrics, Wide-Ranging Impact
Since its creation in 1949, the United Elastic plant in Stuart changed ownership numerous times before being purchased by Narroflex Inc. on April 29, 2002 as the company worked to expand production in the United States.
In a story from The Enterprise in 2022, which was part of a series about manufacturing in Patrick County, then-company president Ann Joseph-Jones shared that Narroflex began in 1987 in Ontario, Canada, when her father, who started working in textiles in the 1970s after his immigration to that country, bought a facility.
Narroflex produces narrow fabric parts that are either knitted, woven, or braided by machines. Because it crafts only part of a finished product, the company falls into a manufacturing category known as a “part” shop.
Narroflex products are used in industries ranging from medical and industrial manufacturing to apparel and consumer goods.
The plant employs just shy of 100 people, with some employees having been there for over 40 years.
The company prides itself on keeping waste below industry standards and adapting machine technology to maximize efficiency and competitiveness.
Nancy’s Candy
Panel Processing, Inc.
Hands-On Craftsmanship in a High-Tech World
In 2012, Panel Processing, Inc., headquartered in Alpena, Michigan, purchased Modular Wood Systems in Claudville, Virgina. Today, the employee-owned company employs 19 people, many from the Stuart and Ararat communities.
Panel Processing manufactures full-sheet flat panels and related products—including raw board, laminate board, painted board, coated board, plastic components, ready-to-assemble furniture, displays and fixtures—serving markets from retail and hospitality to healthcare.
“Our location primarily sells to distributors throughout the United States, who, in turn, sell to end users,” said Brent Belcher, operations manager.
According to Belcher, while many industries are relying on or preparing for increased automation, the equipment and processes at Panel Processing are “very much hands-on and require skilled labor for optimum quality.”
“We are blessed to have an exceptional, experienced team in our Claudville location, as well as strong Corporate leadership,” Belcher said. “Our efficiency in manufacturing, shorter lead times than our rival imports and excellent customer service still make us a prominent supplier.”
The company supports local events such as the annual River Run in Kibler Valley and prioritizes creating an environment where employees can earn a living while enjoying life in a rural community.
RotoMetrics
Precision That Powers Industry
In the community of Meadows of Dan, RotoMetrics operates a specialized manufacturing facility that plays a quiet but critical role in global production. Located along U.S. Route 58, the plant
focuses on the design and manufacture of high-precision flexible and solid rotary dies—essential tools used in converting processes for packaging, labels and a wide range of industrial applications. (Converting is the process of making a flat sheet into a three-dimensional product like a package or envelope.)
At this Patrick County facility, a team of approximately 29 employees produces precision cutting solutions, including flexible magnetic dies and solid rotary dies, engineered to exacting standards. These tools help manufacturers around the world achieve accuracy, efficiency and consistency in everything from consumer packaging to industrial materials.
As part of Maxcess, a global leader in web handling and converting technologies, RotoMetrics connects this rural community to international markets while maintaining a strong local presence. The Meadows of Dan operation reflects the broader story of manufacturing in Patrick County—highly technical, globally relevant and deeply rooted in the community it supports.
Ten Oaks
Sustainable Hardwood Flooring with Deep Local Roots
In 2004, Ten Oaks launched in Stuart’s Rich Creek Corporate Park with a bold vision: make hardwood flooring better.
Ten Oaks manufactures unfinished and pre-finished hardwood flooring distributed nationwide. Sales manager Derrick Williams explains the company’s patented Six Side Seal technology:
“Every piece of flooring is encapsulated in a UV-cured, seal right after machining. The seal results in a moisture barrier that extends the quality life of flooring and reduces cupping and gapping.”
The company sources 100 percent of its hardwood from verified sustainable hardwood forests and operates as a zero-waste manufacturer, repurposing byproducts to fuel boilers and manufacture composite materials.
Panel Processing, Inc.
Ten Oaks employs around 180 individuals and takes pride in knowing that many members of their team represent the third and fourth generations of families associated with the business.
“It’s safe to say that 95% of folks who work here are from here,” Williams noted. “This community is an area beyond compare, and we are proud to offer the local workforce good opportunities that enable them to stay here to raise their families.”
Turbo Lab of America Precision Power, Global Reach
At Turbo Lab of America, a small operation is making a big impact. Founded in 2011, the company is led by brothers, Austin and Ian Cole, who are supported by a tight-knit team of four. Together, they specialize in building and rebuilding turbochargers for cars and trucks, while also developing high-performance upgrades designed to deliver greater power and reliability.
Their work often goes beyond standard repair. Turbo Lab remanufactures hard-to-find components, helping extend the life of equipment that might otherwise be sidelined. That expertise has earned them a global customer base, with parts and turbochargers shipped to more than 160 countries worldwide.
While rooted in Patrick County, much of the company’s business happens online, with most sales coming from across the United States, followed by strong demand in Canada and Australia. It’s a rare niche for a rural community—the nearest comparable specialty shops are more than two hours away— and a testament to how local innovation can compete on a global stage.
Worley Machine Enterprises
From Apple Barn to Advanced CNC Leader
From humble beginnings at the back of an old apple barn in Lone Ivy in 1972, Worley Machine Enterprises has grown into one of the largest CNC production shops in Virginia.
Founded by Don Worley and his two brothers, the veteran-owned, family-operated business has undergone nine expansions since 1984. In the mid-1990s, three of Don Worley’s children joined the business: Rick Worley is the plant manager, Chris Worley is the operations manager and Carin Belcher is the office manager.
“We have been here for 30 years and hope to turn the reins over to [the] 3rd generation one day,” said Chris Worley. Today, the company employs 50 people across two shifts. Most live in Patrick County, with others commuting from Henry and Floyd counties.
“We manufacture components worldwide to blueprint specifications,” said Chris Worley. “We supply machining services to commercial customers including Fortune 500 companies.”
Operating more than 60 automated CNC machines—and investing in five-axis technology, Swiss equipment capable of
“lights out” machining and future robotics—the company continues to evolve to remain competitive.
Unfortunately, like most rural communities, Patrick County has lost manufacturers over the years. According to Worley, logistics make it harder for companies to be competitive in rural communities, but he believes that recent improvements and continuing expansions to the highway system in and around Patrick will be a major benefit for area businesses.
“We love being an employer in Patrick County,” Worley said. “We love our county and our Woolwine community. We have been blessed with wonderful employees some of whom have been with us for over 40 years. Our entire team is dedicated to providing the best service we can to our customers.”
Thriving Together
Manufacturing in Patrick County is not just about production lines or balance sheets. It is about neighbors employing neighbors. It is about investing in technology while preserving tradition. It is about ensuring that future generations have the option to stay, work and raise their families in a place they are proud to call home.
In workshops, mills, and factories across the county, wealth is being created — not just in dollars, but in stability, stewardship and shared success. And that is something worth building on.
In Patrick County, when manufacturing thrives, the community thrives.
Worley Machine
The Economic Development Department of Patrick County proudly supports all new and existing businesses, industries, and manufacturers throughout the County of Patrick and Town of Stuart. Contact us at 276-694-8367 or eda@co.patrick.va.us.
Strong Banking. Strong Communities.
Whether you’re trying to buy your dream house, budget for future plans, or even just start saving some extra funds, First Community Bank has options to help, and friendly associates ready to discuss them with you.
Are you expanding a business or starting a new one? Curious about enterprise zones or incentives? If you have any of these questions, please contact us. The Patrick County Democratic Committee brings neighbors together every month to organize, educate, and take action. Our mission is simple: support and elect Democratic candidates across Virginia who will fight for working families, protect our rights and freedoms, and strengthen our communities. Grassroots work isn’t glamorous, but it’s powerful. And it depends on people like you.
Let’s build your future together. Visit firstcommunitybank.com.
Where the Mountains Meet the Tide
By Erica Stacy
Coastal vibes roll into the Blue Ridge for an unforgettable weekend in June
About 270 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean, along a scenic stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the mountain town of Stuart trades hiking boots for flip-flops and bluegrass tunes for beach beats—if only for a weekend.
For 44 years, the Hot Fun in the Summertime Beach Music Festival has transformed Patrick County into a coastal dance floor. This year the event takes place June 11-13.
“We’ve been bringing the coast to the mountains for 44 years now,” said Stanley Fain, long-time volunteer and organizer.
Held each June at Wayside Park, the three-day event draws nearly 3,000 beach music lovers for what organizers describe as a “high-energy three-day retreat that blends the relaxed music of the coast with the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.”
Longtimers & New Faces
Originally sponsored by the Patrick County Jaycees, today the festival is hosted by the Stuart Rotary Club, welcoming between 2,700 and 2,900 attendees annually. While crowds may be slightly smaller than in years past, the loyalty runs deep. Many attendees return year after year, drawn by the music, the dancing and friendships that feel more like family reunions.
Liz Pierce, who moved to Patrick County in 2021, quickly became part of the tradition after joining the Rotary Club.
“With a background in event planning, it didn’t take long before I was asked to help with festival production and logistics,” she said. “When the club needed someone to jump in, I stepped forward—and I’ve been learning ever since.”
Today, Pierce serves as treasurer and co-chair, managing festival production.
“I’ll be honest: I didn’t grow up with beach music, so there was a learning curve,” Pierce explained. “I’ve relied heavily on feedback from longtime attendees, especially the Tiki Bar crew, who have been coming since the very beginning. Their stories, their traditions and their love for this festival have guided me more than anything else.”
Sun, Sound & The Shag
Not to be confused with California surf rock, beach music is a distinctly coastal sound born in the late 1940s and 1950s in the Carolinas. Blending R&B, soul and jump blues, it became the soundtrack for teens gathering at coastal dance clubs. By the 1960s and ’70s—the genre’s Golden Era—it had evolved into a cultural movement defined by a signature 4/4 dance tempo.
The music is inseparable from the Carolina Shag, the smooth, gliding partner dance that became popular along the Grand Strand. Today, shag competitions are held nationwide. The dance was named South Carolina’s official state dance in 1984 and North Carolina’s official popular dance in 2005.
Over time, beach music expanded from its early R&B roots to include crowd favorites like The Drifters, The Tams, Chairmen of the Board, and The Embers as well as dance classics such as “Build Me Up, Buttercup.” Each June, those timeless tunes echo through Wayside Park and across the Blue Ridge foothills.
As longtime organizer Wayne Kirkpatrick shared in a story published last year, “On Thursdays, the music runs from 6 p.m. to about 9 or 10, depending on how long the band wants to play. Again, on Friday, it runs on the same hours. Then on Saturday, we have more bands there, and that runs from noon to 11 p.m. or so.”
Flip-Flops & Family Traditions
Music festivals thrive on connection and this one is no exception. Most attendees travel from across Virginia and the East Coast, filling campsites, local restaurants and shops throughout the weekend.
So, what keeps people coming back to a beach music festival in a mountain community?
“People return year after year because the festival has always been more than just music—it’s the atmosphere, the hospitality, and the sense of belonging that has defined this event for more than four decades,” said Pierce.
That spirit was shaped in large part by Patty and Danny Hazelwood, whose warmth became part of the festival’s identity.
“For years, they welcomed guests onto their property with open arms, creating a gathering place where everyone felt like
family,” recounted Pierce. “Their kindness, their generosity, and the way they made people feel at home became part of the festival’s identity. Those who knew them still talk about the warmth they brought to every festival weekend.”
Camp Chairs & Blue Ridge Nights
Camping is central to the festival experience. Around 200 sites are available each year, complete with 30-amp electrical hookups, limited water access, bathhouses and a dump station.
“We have a lot of people come in and stay for multiple days to enjoy the festival,” said Kirkpatrick. “There are groups of campers that meet here every year like a family reunion, and they just have a really good time for the three days of the festival.”
Camping coordinator Melanie Culler learned the ropes quickly after agreeing to help.
“I lived close to the park, and I was friends with the park owners Danny and Patty Hazelwood, so Stanley Fain asked me if I could manage that part of the festival, but I had absolutely no idea what I was doing, being a non-camper,” laughs Culler. “That first year, I had hand drawn maps of the campsites. A friend who was a previous camper helped me to get to know campground, so I thought ‘How hard could it be?’”
That year, Danny Hazelwood helped Culler park 137 registered campers.
“The looks and headshakes I got from Danny as he tried to help me park 44 ft. Class A motorhomes in campsites designed for a 20 ft. camper were priceless,” Culler recalled. “I consider that week my Camper Coordinator Training Class 101, but if Danny were here, he would probably say he considered it his worst nightmare.”
Today, Culler carefully assigns sites based on RV size and coordinates staggered arrivals to keep things running smoothly.
“To visit Patrick County is to love Patrick County. It is beautiful, and the people are welcoming. Once people come, they want to return,” Culler said. “I have really enjoyed meeting and working with the campers. I have met so many interesting people and realize beach music brings people together from all walks of life.”
Beach Music 2024
Wayne Kirkpatrick taking a break while volunteering with Rotary
Returning campers may reserve sites through May 3. After that, remaining spaces open on a first-come, first-served basis.
Last year, organizers introduced a local shuttle service to help campers explore the local area. The shuttle brings visitors into the Town of Stuart and Meadows of Dan, where they can shop, visit the farmers market and support local businesses.
Good Vibes & Greater Impact
Beyond the dancing and nostalgia, the festival fuels meaningful community impact.
“Every ticket sold, every camper who returns and every sponsor who steps up directly supports Patrick County,” Pierce said. “This isn’t just a weekend of music—it’s a fundraiser that fuels real projects, real programs and real impact all year long. When people show up, they’re helping us feed children, support families, build community spaces and invest in the next generation’”
The festival is the Stuart Rotary Club’s second-largest fundraiser, supporting literacy initiatives such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, improvements like the DeHart Park Disc Golf Course and trails at Rotary Field and the Backpack Program, which sends children home from school each weekend with five meals.
Following the passing of Patty Hazelwood—and later Danny—organizers established the Patty & Danny Hazelwood Memorial Scholarship, funded through the festival’s 50/50 raffle. The scholarship supports local students pursuing music and the arts, and six Patrick County students have already benefitted.
“What I enjoy most is being part of something that means so much to so many people,” Pierce said. “Helping preserve a 44year tradition—and watching it continue to bring joy to the folks who return year after year—is truly rewarding.”
It is that joy—multiplied by every ticket sold and every campsite filled — that ripples far beyond festival weekend. The music may fade on Sunday night, but the impact carries on throughout the year in classrooms, parks and families across Patrick County.
For one weekend each June, the mountains sway, the dance floors fill and the music of the Carolina coast rises into the Blue Ridge air—proving you don’t need sand between your toes to feel the beach. In Stuart, the soundtrack of summer lingers long after the last note is played.
What to expect at the festival
The Beach Music Festival is built on tradition, hospitality and the simple joy of spending a summer weekend together. If you decide to join the fun, here’s what you can expect from the weekend:
• A relaxed, friendly atmosphere where everyone is there to have a good time.
• Incredible value—a full weekend pass is under $70, which gets you seven bands for less than $10 per band.
• Live beach music from some of the best bands in the region.
• A true festival community, with campers ranging from pop ups to big rigs, filling Wayside Park for the weekend.
• Plenty of room to dance, mingle, and enjoy the music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
• A BYOB format, which keeps the event affordable and lets guests enjoy the weekend their own way— responsibly, of course.
• A welcoming environment where you can show up not knowing anyone and leave with new friends.
THE 2026 LINEUP
Thursday, June 11
The Embers
Friday, June 12
The Pink Slips
Jim Quick and Coastline
Saturday, June 13
The Special Occasion Band
The Tonez
The Tams
The Swingin’ Medallions
Mike and Leigh Ann Hazelwood at Beach Music 2022 Beach Music 2024
I Love Beach Music
Starting in the early 1980s, the Hot Fun in the Summertime Beach Music Festival defined what a music festival could be and it’s still here over four decades later.
Tickets courtesy of Galen Gilbert.
Shirt courtesy of Sandra Clark.
Beach Music 1987. Photo courtesy of Connie Cassagrande
General Johnson and Chairmen of the Board at Beach Music 1987. Photo courtesy of Connie Cassagrande
The old sprayer tank to keep the dust down on a hot and dry Beach Music 1991. Photo courtesy of Sandra Clark.
Beach Music mid-80s. Photo courtesy of Kenny Prutting
Button courtesy of the Hazelwood Family.
Clarence Carter at Beach Music 1996. Photo courtesy of Lynn McGrady.
Beach Music 1983. Photo courtesy of the Hazelwood Family.
Beach Music 1985. Photo courtesy of Lynn McGrady.
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Ruritan Clubs of Patrick County: Community People Meeting Community Needs
By Kristin Hylton
On a late December night in 2023, a tragic highway crash occurred on Route 8 in the small community of Woolwine, and the ripple effects were felt throughout all of Patrick County. Two teenagers, one from Patrick and one from Floyd County, were seriously injured when their car was struck by a drunk driver. One was bravely fighting an intense medical battle for their life, the other recovering from life-altering injuries, and both families were navigating every parent’s worst nightmare, while thousands of people in Woolwine and beyond were coming together to provide support for the families, and many people reached out wondering how to best help.
Woolwine Community Ruritan Club answered that call. Although their brand new civic organization was chartered just months before the accident, it didn’t take
long for the Ruritans to provide an avenue for citizens to support two of their own. According to an article in the Summer 2024 edition of the Ruritan National Magazine, the club voted unanimously to plan an event to assist the families with medical expenses. They collaborated with other Ruritan groups across Patrick County and into Floyd County—the first concerted effort between that many clubs in the area—to organize a fundraiser in February of the following year and raised nearly $46,000 to support the teens and their families. The magazine article details the agenda of the February 2024 funding blitz, which featured: eight local performers, baked goods and meal sales, a “Cut-a-Thon” that provided more than 50 haircuts, a basket raffle, auction, 50/50 drawing and numerous other activities
throughout the day. Both teens attended the event, even though they were still recovering from their injuries. In March, a special meeting was held to present the funds, as well as honor the Woolwine community volunteer agencies that responded to the crash, Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department and Smith River Rescue Squad.
According to Nancy Belcher, a second-generation Ruritan herself, her husband David, who serves as the current president, was instrumental in getting the Woolwine Community Ruritan Club started in 2023. He witnessed the impact Ruritans were having around Patrick County and spearheaded the effort to establish a club in Woolwine, not letting his introverted nature stand in the way of rallying residents throughout Woolwine,
up to Floyd County and into the Fairy Stone area, all the way to the Henry County boundary line. Chartered in October of 2023 with 26 members, Woolwine Community Ruritan Club membership has now grown to nearly 50, including a powerful group of youth members from elementary to high school age.
In 2025, the club’s youth planned an Easter egg hunt held at IC DeHart Park in the heart of Woolwine. The second annual Easter Egg Hunt was held the following year. In addition, the Woolwine Community Ruritan Club supports the Bootlegger’s Blitz mountain bike race at the park by providing meals and snacks for race participants as well as spectators. In July, the group will host a family-friendly water fun day as part of Woolwine’s VA250 celebration. The
largest fundraiser the Woolwine Ruritans organize is a yard sale, which is open at the old Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department building every Saturday in moderate weather, generally from March to November.
As stated by the national club and other sources, the word ‘ruritan’ is a combination of two Latin words, ruri- meaning rural, and tan- meaning small town life or living, making the base identity of the organization a perfect fit for Patrick
County. Ruritan was established in 1928 in Holland, Virginia, has now grown to twenty-four states, and has a long history in Patrick County. The county is currently home to six Ruritan clubs: Woolwine Community, Ararat, Meadows of Dan, Patrick Springs, Red Bank, and Stuart. Inspired by a national slogan of “Fellowship, Goodwill, and Community Service,” local Ruritans are encouraged to identify needs within their communities and focus on projects that address those needs, which means each club has its own character, calendar of events, and guiding priorities.
The Meadows of Dan Ruritan Club was chartered in 1949 and recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, making it the oldest still-active club in the county. It also has the unique identity of running an active women’s club in the commu-
Woolwine Community Ruritan Club Easter Egg Hunt
nity, which developed in Meadows of Dan alongside Ruritan in the years when Ruritan was exclusive to men. The current Meadows of Dan Ruritan Club has a diverse membership that holds steady around thirty, including youth.
The largest annual fundraiser for the Meadows of Dan club is its Pancake Days event, held each fall at the Meadows of Dan community building. The members are now planning the fifty-ninth iteration of the event, which offers all-day, allyou-can-eat buttermilk and buckwheat pancakes on the third and fourth Saturdays in October. As any visitor during those weekends will share, Pancake Days is an integral part of the Meadows of Dan experience, and many local residents have grown up supporting Pancake Days.
Current president Aaron Shelor is one of those residents. While he is a third generation Ruritan, he was not a youth member, yet has strong memories of helping with Pancake Days throughout his childhood. He shared that two local family-owned dairies have historically provided the cow’s milk that is used to make buckwheat pancakes. Aaron joined the Meadows of Dan Ruritan Club about five years ago; he wanted to have an avenue to get involved and uplift the community where he was raised.
The Meadows of Dan Ruritans sponsor the food pantry at Meadows of Dan Food Market, a food assistance initiative that relies on local donations and ensures access to food for those in need. The club completes community service projects
each year, addressing needs in the community such as updating park equipment and landscaping around the Meadows of Dan community building. At monthly meetings, speakers are invited from the surrounding area to talk about potential projects, partnerships, and needs.
Although Meadows of Dan is the longest still-running Ruritan club in the county, several others are not far behind. Just a few years after the Meadows of Dan charter, more clubs were established across Patrick County. On January 9, 1953, twenty-six citizens in the Ararat community chartered their club and immediately went to work developing projects and programs. The Ararat Ruritan Club now boasts membership near 40, with over a dozen associate members as well. Associate membership is an option for businesses to be a part of Ruritan and champion the organization’s work.
Kevin Smith, a long-time member of the Ararat group and recently elected National Director, spoke about the community service all Ruritans provide, noting that many people join the club because they “really enjoy giving back.” He shared the perspective that the Ruritan motto of “Fellowship, Goodwill, and Community Service” multiplies when long-time members, sometimes after decades of giving their time and energy, continue to stay active in the club by attending meals and meetings, and the fellowship becomes a community service to those often-elderly citizens. Ruritan clubs benefit their communities with many small acts in addition
to their larger efforts, and the positive effects of both are tangible.
The Ararat Ruritan Club maintains a full calendar, offering cash BINGO on the third Saturday of every month, an Easter egg hunt and clean-ups at Dan River Park, partnership with Disaster Relief Food Ministry to coordinate food distribution in Ararat, blood drives, contributions to the Christmas Cheer program, milk and cookies with Santa at the holidays, a fall cruise-in and BBQ that evolved from a wagon train event that the club historically hosted, and many other short-term projects to alleviate need in the Ararat community.
Pamela Smith, current club vice president and Ruritan District Governor, reflected on a project that impacted Blue Ridge Elementary School. She remembers reaching out to the school’s principal to get a better idea of the support needed, and the club taking action when the answer was large appliances. Students frequently need access to clean clothes, and while the school keeps extra clothing on hand, at that time there was no way to wash student laundry in case of spills or accidents. Ararat Ruritan Club was able to acquire a washer and dryer and provided installation of the appliances so staff could meet the needs of their students in a more timely fashion. That story is just one of hundreds the county’s Ruritans can share, all of which demonstrate careful attention to the communities they serve.
Following closely on the chartering of the Ararat Ruritan Club was the commu-
Meadows of Dan Christmas Parade
Ararat Ruritan Roadside Cleanup 2025
nity of Patrick Springs, which chartered in 1954 and currently has about 30 members. The Patrick Springs Ruritan Club serves two communities—Patrick Springs and neighboring Critz—and has a lot of membership overlap in other service organizations in those areas, including the Envision Critz community center board and the Reynolds Homestead Descendants Committee.
Each July, the Patrick Springs Ruritans plan a fish fry dinner as their main fundraiser for the year. The funds are invested into the club’s community projects and partners. The members complete many service projects to benefit elderly citizens, including lawn upkeep and transport to appointments. They support the local scouting groups, donate annually to community aid organizations such as Caring Hearts Free Clinic and the Patrick County community food bank, and run fundraising meals for the local park and other partners. They work closely with both Patrick Springs Primary School and Hardin Reynolds Memorial School in Critz.
In addition to service projects, donations and fundraisers, the Patrick Springs Ruritan Club also recognizes two community members annually with awards: Mother of the Year and the Outstanding Citizenship Award. A committee selects the awardees from a pool of nominations, and the awards are presented at Mother’s Day and in November, respectively. The awards have been a part of the club’s annual calendar for more than 15 years, said
long-serving president David Clement.
Another unique aspect of the Patrick Springs Ruritan Club is its life-size Rudy Bear, which frequently appears at functions and outreach events. Rudy was introduced in 1988 as the Ruritan National mascot, and is offered in a small stuffed animal size that clubs frequently donate to first responder agencies. Having the bears on hand to share with children supports a friendly interaction with fire, rescue and police personnel, giving comfort during unfamiliar situations. The Patrick Springs Ruritans expand on that comfort by bringing Rudy into the local schools, the annual Christmas parade, and other events where children can interact and build a relationship with the character.
The Patrick Springs Ruritan Club frequently collaborates with the Red Bank Ruritans. Based in Claudville, the Red Bank club was chartered in 1955 and now has around 45 members, with many families having several generations on the roster. One of the largest projects those members have worked on for more than 40 years is the annual Kibler Valley River Run, a huge undertaking that brings together kayakers from across the region to race down two miles of the Dan River, and serves as a primary fundraiser for the club. The Red Bank Ruritan Club sponsors the event, purchasing trophies and providing human power to plan, promote and implement the race and the family-friendly activities surrounding the race each July.
The club also raises funds at the
Autumn Leaves Festival in Mt. Airy, NC, where members prepare and sell Polish sausages. Each spring, the Ruritans organize sales of homemade chocolate Easter eggs. The funds raised at the Kibler Valley River Run and other fundraisers go directly back into the Claudville and Red Bank communities. In addition to partnering with schools and emergency response agencies, the Red Bank club supplies care packages to every new family in the community, including diapers and other needed items for newborns. They provide financial support for families in crisis, maintain the Ruritan building and ballfield and help other Ruritans in the county with various projects.
Former Zone Governor and district growth and development chair Charlie Bowman, who was instrumental in bringing the Red Bank club back up to charter membership level more than twenty years ago, emphasizes the need for clubs to recruit young and energetic members. He pointed out that across the organization, the average member’s age is over sixty. He encourages open house-style community meetings and partnering with local organizations to promote awareness of the Ruritan motto and service mentality. Bowman has spoken at the zone, district, and national levels numerous times in his long tenure with the organization, presenting growth and development reports as well as a speech he has titled “Identifying Community Needs,” which he has shared at three national Ruritan conventions. In the speech, he encourages
Stuart Ruritans set up at Stuart Spooktacular Red Bank Ruritan’s Kibler Valley River Run
Ruritans to collaborate widely in their communities and use varied media outlets like social channels, newspapers and radio opportunities to reach potential members and partners.
Stuart Ruritan Club used many of those strategies when it was chartered in early 2023. Promoting another Ruritan slogan “community people meeting community needs,” the Stuart club started with a dozen members, president Jennifer Sink stated. It now has 16 members and an active recruitment strategy, including a fair booth, radio ads and presence at various town and county festivals. A passage in the Spring 2024 Ruritan National Magazine highlights the club’s early activities.
The new Stuart Ruritan Club has hit the ground running! After a successful raffle ticket fundraiser, the club partnered with Piedmont Community Services to host a Mental Health Walk to bring awareness of mental health issues worldwide and to mobilize efforts to support mental health. The club also partnered with Tin Pen Alley and held a “Bowling for our Heroes” event. All local veterans, police, fire, and EMS personnel were honored with a night of free bowling. Club
members are looking forward to spreading the meaning of Ruritan throughout the Stuart community in the years to come.
The Stuart Ruritans serve their community in many ways, continuing the efforts mentioned in the magazine as well as hosting a quarterly meal with Patrick County Recovery Ministry, coordinating relief supplies to go to regions impacted by Hurricane Helene and hosting blood drives. In early spring of this year, Stuart Ruritans were abuzz with a secretive fun-raiser they are planning in collaboration with other county clubs. No details could be shared, except to say that the event will be BINGO-related, and a guaranteed good time for all who attend.
Each club across the county assesses the needs of its community and responds to those needs, but there are some activities that span all the Ruritan clubs. The members participate in semi-annual roadway cleanups and work with the local schools to meet the needs of students, including food insecurity, supply purchasing and field trip costs. They honor school staff by catering a meal for Teacher Appreciation Day. All six clubs in Patrick County offer scholarships to local students moving on to post-secondary education.
The Ruritans across the county collaborate to plan the annual Patrick County Veterans’ Day parade held on Main Street in Stuart. Every club hosts work days in and around their meeting locations to improve the buildings and grounds in their communities.
Most work with Hunters for the Hungry, a statewide organization that distributes donated venison to ensure individuals and families in need benefit from meat harvested by trophy hunters. More than half the clubs in the county run a firewood project that sources wood for community residents in need of support for heating their homes, with Ruritans either purchasing or chopping, splitting and delivering the wood to individuals and families. Several of the clubs have a strong partnership with their community volunteer fire department and rescue squad and provide annual funds for the operation of the agencies.
Ruritans across the nation are charged with surveying the needs around them and creating action to build thriving rural communities. The six clubs in Patrick County answer that charge. They act in a variety of ways, small and large, to uplift and empower other organizations
and foster community connection. All six welcome new faces to attend their meetings and learn more about the Ruritan service ethos. Reflecting on the immense response and club collaboration of the February 2024 fundraiser, the Summer 2024 Ruritan National Magazine article describes that ethos: “This isn’t just about joining a club; it’s about answering a call to serve. Those who took that leap of faith and embrace Ruritan did so for a purpose—to uplift their community in times of trial. They embody the spirit of service…[They] are true heroes in every sense of the word.”
EVENTS LIST
WOOLWINE
Spring/Summer Saturdays
Yard Sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
May 30 - Afternoon cruise-in at WVFD
July 3 - America’s 250 Celebration
ARARAT
May 5 - Cinco de Mayo tacos to go May 16, June 20, July 17, August 15, September 19 – BINGO, 4:30 p.m.
Oct 17 - BBQ and cruise-in
RED BANK
July 18 - Kibler Valley River Run, Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.
PATRICK SPRINGS
May 2 - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., BBQ fundraiser for Envision Critz
STUART
October 3 - BINGO
Monthly - Facebook raffle for scholarships
MEADOWS OF DAN
October 18 and 25 - Pancake Days
COUNTY-WIDE
November 14 - Veterans’ Day Parade
Ruritan meetings in chronological order
Red Bank, first Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Ararat, first Thursday at 7 p.m.
Meadows of Dan, first Thursday at 7 p.m.
Patrick Springs, second Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
Woolwine, third Monday at 6:30 p.m.
Stuart, third Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Meadows of Dan Pancake Days. Photo by Amber Southern.
Ruritan Clubs set up at the Patrick County Agricultural Fair
Woolwine Ruritans serving meals during the Bootlegger’s Blitz mountain bike event
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