This morning it’s off to Prestwould Plantation, a massive combination Georgian-Federal style house constructed in 1760. Tradition has it that the property, once home to Blue Stone Castle, was won by Sir Skipwith in a three day card game with William Byrd,II, of Westover on the James River. Amazingly it stayed in the family that included Lady Jean, a cousin of Thomas Jefferson, until 1914. The interior of the home is best known for its original 18th and 19th century wallpapers which have been copied in a special collection offered by Scalamandre. Substantial African American interpretation exists on the property as well.

From there, a very short drive takes you to Boydton and the Boyd Tavern, constructed in 1785 by Richard Swepson, Jr. It was used to provide lodging for people visiting the county courthouse across the street. The land and buildings were sold to Alexander Boyd in 1794. Boyd was later instrumental in the commissioning of Boyd Town in 1812. The Tavern was thoroughly restored in 2000. Over the years it has amassed a long and colorful history including being used as a hotel for a nearby racetrack, a mustering place for Confederate soldiers and a stagecoach depot for the Boydton-Petersburg Plank Road in the 1850s.

On your way between Boydton and Emporia, you can stop at The Kennon House Restaurant or "Mud House" as it is known by locals, built in 1792 by a Swiss architect. The 18” thick walls are constructed of mud. You can dine on Southern home-cooking featured in the charming restaurant that now operates in the historic building.

Another short drive takes you to Emporia, location of the Valley View Mansion House. Here you can get a glimpse of rural family life in Southern Virginia. The original handcarved mantels, decorative molding, hardwood floors and massive hand-hewn beams, installed in 1790 when the house was built by James Wall, were retained by later owners, the Land and Briggs families. Over the centuries, rooms in the house have served as a doctor’s office, dentist’s office, an apothecary and boys academy. The front parlor served as a meeting place for a war council held by General’s W.H. Lee, Wade Hampton and Matthew Butler during the Civil War.

From there, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.