Member Feature: Steeles Tavern Manor
Once upon a time in the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, there was a countryside bed & breakfast. The idyllic setting was enhanced with a babbling creek, a glistening pond, and a lush, mountainous view. Think this is a fairy tale? Nope, it’s BBHSV member Steeles Tavern Manor Bed & Breakfast.
Owned and run by Ray and Melissa Alexander, Steeles Tavern Manor and its sister property Alpine Hideaway Cottages are a serene retreat in a busy world. The bed & breakfast dates all the way back to 1916, a manor home that has since been converted into a cozy yet modern inn. Rest at ease in one of the vinously named B&B rooms with their flat screen, HD TVs, fireplaces, fuzzy robes, and free WiFi. Choose the Cabernet Franc Room, the Viognier Room, the Norton Room, the Petite Verdot Suite, or the Chardonnay Suite.
If you’d like something a bit more secluded, then the aptly named Alpine Hideaway Cottages are at your service. You have three cabins to choose from—Ivy, Sunset, and Pond View—and each offers brilliant views, luxurious amenities, and peaceful surroundings.
And then of course, there’s breakfast. What would a B&B be without its morning meal? “The coffee starts brewing just before 7:30 AM every morning. Inn guests come down to the Dining Room starting their morning with a hot cup of coffee or hot tea and a sweet surprise.” Feast on French toast soufflé, blueberry pancakes, Southwest quiche, sausage, frittata, bacon, and more.
Click here to check availability and make your reservation at Steeles Tavern Manor.
The Civil War Sesquicentennial Finale Concert
If you haven’t heard by now, Virginia has been participating in the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War (i.e. the Civil War Sesquicentennial). From re-enactments to lectures to the traveling Civil War 150 HistoryMobile, Virginia has been active in exploring life during local, 19th century warfare.
The 150th commemoration will come to a close in 2015, and it’s going out with a musical bang. On Memorial Day, May 25, 2015, the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission will be presenting a Finale Concert that “that brings together music, songs, images, and narration in a profound exploration of the Civil War and emancipation.”
Did you know that the Civil War “gave rise to more music than any other event in American history”? According to VirginiaCivilWar.org, enthusiastic melodies combined with romantic songs to produce an early motivation for soldiers. However, the fervor of army life quickly melted into loneliness and despair for soldiers, while songs of praise and gospel spirituals brought guarded hope for 3.5 million enslaved people. The war ended, freedom was secured, and the nation became whole, with songs like The Battle Hymn of the Republic forever becoming part of the national heritage that we share.”
Interested in going? Click here to register now for this FREE event. (And if you need lodging, check out our member inns.)
Sweet Tomato Chutney from A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge
According to Wikipedia, chutney is a “family of condiments associated with South Asian cuisine made from a highly variable mixture of spices, vegetables, or fruit.” Sounds pretty delicious, right? If you’re in search of a mouthwatering chutney recipe, then look no further:
Ingredients:
1 whole head garlic, peeled & chopped
One 2-inch piece of fresh ginger (1 inch by 1 inch), peeled and chopped
1-1/2 cups red wine vinegar
2 pounds fresh skinned tomatoes (or 1 pound and 12 ounces canned whole tomatoes)
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
1-1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (depending on how hot you like it)
2 Tablespoons golden raisins
2 Tablespoons blanched slivered almonds
Directions:
Put the garlic, ginger and 1/2 cup of vinegar in the food processor and process until smooth.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, place the tomatoes (and juice from the can if using canned tomatoes) and the rest of the vinegar, sugar, salt, cayenne. Bring to a boil. Add the puree from the food processor and simmer uncovered for about 2 to 3 hours until it thickens and a film clings to a spoon when dipped. Stir occasionally at first and more frequently later as it thickens. (You may need to lower the heat as the liquid diminishes.)
Add almonds and raisins. Simmer, stirring another 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let cool. It should be as thick as honey.
Bottle in clean containers, and refrigerate. Must be kept in the refrigerator. Good indefinitely. Makes about 2 cups. (This is delicious served with cream cheese and crackers.)
Photo by Life Currents
Eat and enjoy! Thanks to BBHSV member A B&B at Llewellyn Lodge for the recipe! (Originally published here.)
Member Feature: By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages
Built in 1790, By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages is a historic bed & breakfast that is anything but dated. With its juxtaposition of history and modernity, it is a perfect lodging option if you’re going to be in and around Harrisonburg, VA.
Since the Bed & Breakfasts of the Historic Shenandoah Valley are all about history and lodging, how about a bit of By the Side of the Road’s history? This establishment certainly has a rich history. Before it was a B&B, By the Side of the Road served both as the home of a Mennonite pacifist and then later as a Civil War hospital: “Well-known Mennonite Bishop Peter Burkholder and his son and successor, Martin, was the author of a Confession of Faith including a reflection on non-resistance.” In 1864, “this once pastoral abode was transitioned to a makeshift Civil War hospital” during General Philip Henry Sheridan’s burning of the Valley.
By the Side of the Road calls itself “an enduring reminder of War & Peace in Virginia’s Historic & Hospitable Shenandoah Valley,” and if you’d like to see his portrait of history for yourself, their lodging options are at the ready:
The Manor House Suites: These suits are elegant pieces of history, furnished with historic décor, fireplaces, WiFi, iPod docks, coffeemakers, and more. Modern amenities meet history in these gorgeous suites.
The Luxury Cottages: These aptly named, modernly furnished accommodations are here to spoil you. From the whirlpool tubs to the flatscreen TVs and iPod docks, your every whim is taken care of.
The Spring Water Cottage Suites: Bask in the luxury showers, catch your favorite movie on the flatscreen TV, and rest your head on a featherbed.
Click here to check availability and make your reservation at By the Side of the Road.
Loudoun County’s Recognition of African American Civil War Veterans
“A century and a half after fighting in a war that transformed their country, four African-American veterans of the Civil War whose remains are buried at Mount Zion Community Cemetery in Leesburg have been formally recognized for their role in Loudoun County’s history” (TimesDispatch.com).
There is a lot of Civil War history in Virginia, particularly in the Shenandoah Valley, but how often do we specifically commemorate the African-Americans who served in the War Between the States? Loudoun County, Virginia has just recently released its first historical marker to recognize the “the service of African-American Civil War veterans.” These four men on Loudoun County’s new Civil War sign are the following:
John W. Langford– Langford was a member of the U.S. Navy, having enlisted in Baltimore in 1864 at the age of 22. He held the rank of Ordinary Seaman.
Joseph Waters– Waters was a member of the 5th Massachusetts Colored Cavalry. He is now laid to rest in Leesburg, Virginia’s Mount Zion Cemetary.
William Taylor– Taylor was a member of the 1st U.S. Colored Infantry.
James Gaskins– Gaskins was a Private in the 39th U.S. Colored Infantry.
If you would like to read more about the role of African-Americans in Loudon, VA during the Civil War, check out From Loudon to Glory by local author and historian Kevin D. Grigsby. Grigsby stated that the Loudon sign dedication “gives these men the proper acknowledgment that they never got 150 years ago” (TimesDispatch.com).
Photo by Lee Phillips
Planning to visit Loudoun County for yourself? Make a lodging reservation at one of our historic B&Bs.
A Cultural Collection at The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley has a mission to “to preserve and enrich the cultural life and heritage of the Valley.” Located in Winchester, Virginia, this preserver of history presents everything from artwork to outdoor events to historic exhibitions: “Designed by Michael Graves, the MSV anchors a regional history museum complex that also includes the Glen Burnie Historic House and six acres of spectacular gardens” (Shenandoah at War). Besides the exhibits, the museum also provides its guests with a Museum Store and a Museum Café, where you can browse, eat, and drink amidst the displays.
Upcoming Events:
August 23, 2014: Shenandoah Valley TasteFest– This free event offers cooking demonstrations, local food samples, vegetable lectures, and children’s activities, all of which goes encourages the Valley’s agricultural traditions.
August 24, 2014: Circa Blue Concert: Enjoy the instrumentations of bluegrass and “newgrass” from this West Virginia band that made its album debut in 2012.
September 3, 2014: Garden Walkabout: Take a guided tour through the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley’s gardens with the Director of Gardens, Perry Mathewes.
September 6, 2014: Second Time Around Preview Art Party: This is a celebration of the MSV’s first contemporary art exhibition.
September 14, 2014: Skyline Indie Film Fest: The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley will host Winchester’s Second Annual Skyline Indie Film Fest.
Explore the history, art, and culture of the Shenandoah Valley at this museum, then return to the historic comfort of your own room at one of our inns. We look forward to seeing you!
Another Fun Mountain Jamboree at Massanutten Resort
“Dance the night away at the 5th annual Mountain Jamboree festival. Every year so far has been packed full of surprises, with plenty of live music, food vendors, and drinks in the beer garden!” (Massanutten Resort).
Summer break is winding down for many people. As soon as August hits, many will be returning to school and jobs, leaving behind the getaways of summer vacation. You may need a pick-me-up by the end of August, and if that’s the case, then we recommend a BBHSV getaway complete with a Mountain Jamboree Festival in McGaheysville, VA.
The 5th Annual Mountain Jamboree Festival promises a wealth of enjoyment. Enjoy the lively music of the Blind Owl Band, Hot Day at the Zoo, and The Larry Keel Experience. Sip a glass of wine or beer (or both!) in the comfort of the Beer Garden. Enjoy a performance by the Dogtown Hoop Mafia, a hoop dance troupe that hails from Richmond, Virginia. If you find yourself tired after the festivities, stop by Massanutten’s spa tent for a seated chair massage. Finally, end your day with a thrilling display of fireworks, beginning at 10 p.m. and presented by Zambelli fireworks.
Quick Facts:
Where: Massanutten Resort
When: Saturday, August 30, 2014
Tickets: $15 advanced, $20 at the gate, kids under 7 free
Photos by Massanutten Resort
The Second Battle of Kernstown: 150th Anniversary Commemoration
“In July 1864 the main focus of the war in Virginia had shifted to the Richmond area where the Union army had hopes of swiftly ending the war. Only secondary attention was being paid to the Shenandoah Valley with the only Union presence being Gen. George Crook in Winchester with a force of less than 12,000. With the tragic loss in 1863 of Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson who died at Chancellorsville from friendly fire from his own pickets, the Confederate forces in the Valley were now led by Lt. Gen. Jubal A. Early” (Kernstown Battle).
The Second Battle of Kernstown was the last Confederate victory in the Shenandoah Valley, the beginning of Sheridan’s 1864 Valley Campaign, and preceding the end of the war by only nine months.
This year is the 150th Anniversary Commemoration of the Second Battle of Kernstown, and you have the opportunity to take a step back in time at the 1864 Pritchard House on the Kernstown Battlefield. Enjoy living history demonstrations, artillery displays, guided tours, motor coach tours, period fashion shows, and an appearance by the Civil War 150 HistoryMobile.
Quick Facts:
Where: The Pritchard-Grim Farm, Winchester, VA
When: July 19-20, 2014, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
Lodging: A BBHSV Bed and Breakfast, of course!
Source: John Paul Strain
Stonewall Jackson Inn’s Blueberry Muffins
This recipe is taken from the Virginia Bed & Breakfast Cookbook published by the Bed and Breakfast Association of Virginia.
“This great muffin recipe was created for the Stonewall Jackson Inn by my best friend and next-door neighbor, Mary. Her secret lies in mashing part of the blueberries then blending them in the batter and sprinkling the tops with sugared nutmeg before baking. They are easy to make, and they keep well. There is no more lovely fragrance at the Inn than these heavenly muffins baking in the morning. Be prepared for everyone eating two of these delicious muffin treats.” –Innkeeper
1/2 cup (one stick) butter at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar, less if the berries are sweetly ripe
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups fresh blueberries, divided
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
1 Tbsp sugar mixed with 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg
Preheat oven to 375° F. Grease a 16-cup muffin pan or use foil baking cups. In a medium-sized bowl, beat butter until creamy, then beat in the sugar until pale and fluffy; beat in the eggs (one at a time), then the vanilla, baking powder and salt. Mash 1/2 cup of the berries with a fork and blend them into the batter.
Fold in half of the flour with a spatula, then half the milk, then the other half of the flour, then the rest of the milk, then the 1 1/2 cups of whole berries. Scoop the batter into muffin cups and sprinkle with the sugar/nutmeg mixture. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool muffins on wire rack for 30 minutes before removing from pan. Watch the admiration and delight on the faces of your family and friends when they take the first bite!
Recipe by Stonewall Jackson Inn, Harrisonburg, VA
Photo by Mary St.Germain-Brown
The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford, VA
“On June 6, 1944, more than 160,000 Allied troops landed along a 50-mile stretch of heavily-fortified French coastline, to fight Nazi Germany on the beaches of Normandy, France…The cost in lives on D-Day was high. More than 9,000 Allied Soldiers were killed or wounded, but their sacrifice allowed more than 100,000 Soldiers to begin the slow, hard slog across Europe, to defeat Adolf Hitler’s crack troops” (Army.mil). 
Today, on June 6, 2014, we remember the D-Day and all of the lives that were lost and the heroes that were created at the invasion of Normandy. On this 70th anniversary of Operation Overlord, many individuals flocked to the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, but today is certainly not the only chance you have to visit. “Dedicated on June 6th, 2001 by President George W. Bush, the National D-Day Memorial was constructed in honor of those who died that day, fighting in one of the most significant battles in our nation’s history” (DDay.org).
The solemn atmosphere of this memorial takes its visitors through an “archival journey” through World War II by means of sculptures, sound effects, oral history, and the stories of the Bedford Boys. It is a sobering yet fascinating picture of history and one that is well worth the visit.
Although this memorial is a couple hours away from our member inns, we invite you to stay at our historic properties to further your exploration through history: www.bbhsv.org.
(Photos by Tara Stoll)