INTRODUCTION TO APPOMATTOX:
Though some people might need more than one attempt to pronounce it, no one will need more than one visit to the charming Central Virginia community of Appomattox to fall in love with it. Within Appomattox County, travelers can experience pivotal moments of the Civil War as well as enjoy relaxing vacation time together.
Located halfway between Lynchburg to the west and Farmville to the east, Appomattox is an easy scenic drive from any Virginia region.
Exiting U.S. 460 -- a major connector between the Virginia-Kentucky border and Portsmouth -- time immediately seems to march a little slower in the midst of the rolling hills and pastureland. Visitors feel almost compelled to follow the well-marked road leading to historic downtown Appomattox. There, in the renovated railroad depot, site of the 1865 "Battle of Appomattox Station", the Visitors Information Center offers a nostalgic look back at our history, while maps, brochures and genuine Southern hospitality abound. Attractive, educational displays proudly showcase Appomattox and its many points of interest.
Stepping out of the visitors center, travelers stroll through Main Street's quaint shops, while the distinctively pleasant aromas of fresh bread saturate the air.
Around the corner and two short blocks north leads to the majestic, present-day Courthouse Square with its many colonial structures. Perhaps the most picturesque among the buildings in the square is the Appomattox County Historical Museum. Once used as the county jail, this unique building now houses memorabilia in thematic displays -- ranging from a one-room schoolhouse to a doctor's office -- offering a unique glimpse into the past.
A self-guided tour, which includes 44 grand homes from the turn of the century, begins and ends at Main Street. Weekends and special occasions, weather permitting, a shorter horse-and carriage tour awaits the more sentimental visitor.
History of a more serious nature is found two miles to the north on Virginia Route 24 at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. Here, Confederate General Robert E. Lee's surrender to Union General Ulysses S. Grant brought a long awaited end to the Civil War.
Today, with the help of the slide shows, walking tours and reenactors, visitors to the restored village become intimate observers to the drama played out in the days just prior to -- and immediately following -- the war's conclusion. Surrounded by serene and seemingly endless split-rail fencing and village buildings, one can almost feel the presence of the war-weary soldiers and visualize the opposing generals as they struggled with the painful truths and chilling consequences of a nation ripped apart by war.
Virginia's Route 24 and a well-maintained hiking trail, meandering through woodlands and crossing the Appomattox River, lead to other Civil War sites including headquarters of both generals, a memorial to Confederate troops from North Carolina and a cemetery with the remains of one Northern and 18 Southern soldiers.
Two Appomattox county sites, marked with special red, white, and blue signs, on Virginia's Route 24 are part of "Lee's Retreat", a 25-stop driving tour between Petersburg and Appomattox. The route traces the more than 100-mile trek Lee and his army took while being pursued by Union troops. Historic markers, maps and interpretive radio broadcasts convey details of events leading to the surrender at Appomattox. East on Route 627 and nestled in thick native hardwoods and pines a mile from the National Park, Cloverhill Village features 19th-century original structures, donated and relocated to the site. While many of the buildings, including the post office, in this living history village have been restored, others are in various stages of reconstruction. Clovehill hosts a number of local festivals throughout the year, and Wesley Chapel is available for those with "nostalgic nuptials" in mind.
Though Appomattox is best known for its Civil War ties, a number of other sites are worth a visit. A modest cabin and simple grave site stand as markers to Joel Sweeney, a local man who popularized the five-string banjo that African slaves had improvised. Visitors can also experience music and craft festivals, as well as wine tasting and tours at Stonewall Vineyards and Winery in the northwest corner of the county. Also outdoor recreational opportunities abound at Holliday Lake State Park, Buckingham-Appomattox State Forest, and along the James River.
Hidden antique shops, inspiring views of he nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, charming bed-and-breakfast facilities, batteau and railroad festivals, local pick-your-own farms and some of the South's finest most gracious people add to the charm and relaxation experienced at Appomattox.