After our satisfying day trip to Warrenton last week, I desired another one. Pondering a way to find the next one, I googled, “oldest cities in Virginia and Maryland.”
Not surprising, the six oldest are in the lower Tidewater region, and far beyond our maximum travel time of an hour and thirty minutes.
The next oldest in Virginia is Fredericksburg, founded in 1728, some 21 years before Alexandria and one before Baltimore. My initial thought was traffic on I-95, which can get atrocious as you head south out of town. But as long as we went before spring, I knew the fifty miles drive should be ok.
Also, the better half and I visited there once, but it was about ten years ago and we concentrated mostly on the Civil War battleground site. Realizing we had never been to their historic district, we hit the road yesterday morning.
Here are the highlights of our visit.
Mary Washington Home
We were too early to get in, but got some good photos. Very extensive house, with three parts and a nice back yard and garden. Washington bought this house for his mother. She lived here from 1772 to 1789.
James Monroe’s Museum and Memorial Library
My favorite place. Very nicely done, with three separate rooms covering each phase of the life of our fifth and a forgotten President. I knew a little about his major accomplishments, but learned about his heroic service in the Revolutionary War. Leading a charge against the Hessians during the Battle of Trenton, Monroe was severely wounded. Nevertheless, their troops captured the position. The victory was a major turning point. Monroe also distinguished himself in another skirmish and turned down any pay.
Read All Over Book Store
Don’t judge a book store by its front. What a jewel, one of the most attractive bookstores I have ever seen.
Bistro Bethem
Best BLT I ever had.
Hyperion Espresso
All the cool and hip people were hanging out here. People watching, we noticed some aging hippies, and were told about the starving artists who lived there. At the same time, well-dressed ladies with a thick southern accent gave a traditional vibe.
Historic District
Some very lovely homes.
Two thumbs up for Fredericksburg. Traffic was not bad and we made it door to door in 45 minutes.
Quaint.
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