Local News
You never know what historical documents you might find laying around a Circuit Court Clerk’s Office
When does a Circuit Court Clerk’s Office become a “museum”? That is the question that arose after a recent visit to the Warren County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and the spotting of a framed, under glass map of Shenandoah National Park on the wall. A closer examination of text printed at the bottom indicated that the map of the full length of the park from Front Royal/Warren County in the north to the City of Waynesboro, Augusta and Albemarle Counties 105.5 miles to the south, dated to a 1927-28 Department of the Interior geological survey citing “tentative boundaries”.
Further examination of the map revealed family names and plats of those families’ properties along the length of the map. Names surrounding a large swath of property cited as “U.S. Army Remount Station” on the northern end had names familiar to Warren County to this day, including: Sealock, Rudacille, Baltimore, Weaver, Millar, Mills, Derflinger, Merchant, Fox, Carter, Pomeroy, Tharpe, Hickerson, Eastham, Wines, and “the Sally Beatty heirs” (probably not Warren and Shirley yet), among others.
‘That’s us way up at the top’ Circuit Court Clerk Angie Moore points out as her office hallway maintains the holiday spirit. Below, tighter shots of that northern section, including Front Royal and Warren County with names of involved landowners and residents. Map Photos Courtesy Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, Royal Examiner Clerk’s office photos Roger Bianchini
WHOA!!! What we appeared to have in front of us was a historical record of the pending, circa the early 1930s displacement of as many as 2,000 people from an estimated 500 families stretching across eight Virginia Counties, including our own. (Displacement numbers source: “Virginia Living” online, “Time to Leave” by Katrina Powell). Knowing people from here with a number of those family names on one side or the other of their genealogies, we decided to track down Warren County Circuit Court Clerk Angie Moore to inquire about her new office wall hanging.
“Actually I was looking for another map ironically, and came across this. The Town had asked if there were any documents or maps directly related to the Byrd Act of 1932, which proposed putting local roads in the hands of the state for maintenance during the Great Depression, to relieve localities of such a financial burden. While I didn’t find what the Town was looking for, I did find this gem. I was pretty excited when I unrolled it, as it hadn’t been unrolled since 1932,” she noted of a markered date on the rolled up map. “So I was pretty happy about that,” Moore told us of her discovery made in August 2020.
“And it just so happened a couple weeks later Greg Brooks, a vendor with C.W. Warthen, came in to look at some of our conservation work to be sent off. I showed it to him and he was very excited because he works across the state and had never seen a full map from Warren County all the way down to the Albemarle area – the full park – and with the little individual plats for everybody (who owned property in the proposed national park area). He’s seen, of course, each area with their own section of the park but not of the park’s entirety. So, he was pretty thrilled about that as well, Moore began of her discovery process.
So, is what she stumbled across in the Warren County Circuit Court land record archives a one of a kind survivor of the process of creating Shenandoah National Park, we wondered. “All eight counties the Shenandoah National Park transverses should have one, they just may not realize it, as I literally stumbled upon this,” Moore reasoned, adding, “This is a draft map, used as an exhibit in the eminent domain case “The State Commission on Conservation and Development v. Virginia Atwood, and others, at Law 221”, which can be found in Deed Book 38. As a draft map, there were additions and deletions to what was actually acquired as a result of the condemnation/eminent domain case.
“I knew I wanted to share this map with Warren County and those who visit our courthouse. So, I asked Warthen vendor Greg Brooks while he was here a couple weeks after the map’s discovery if we could accomplish sharing this map by having it framed. He enthusiastically confirmed that could be done. I made the decision to have this beautiful map framed so others could enjoy it. It hangs in a central location of the clerk’s office and truly is a treasure.
The full proposed Shenandoah National Park map dated to a 1927-28 Department of the Interior geological survey citing ‘tentative boundaries’ with involved landowner parcels cited the length of park. Prior to its August 2020 discovery, this map was last publicly seen in a courtroom in 1932 condemnation, eminent domain cases locally.
“I have been told the Clerk of Madison County is a bit jealous of our find. She has been working on a preservation project on the park and has a map of Madison County, but not an overall map”. Has Moore invited her Madison County counterpart for a visit to see her discovery, we asked.
“I’ve invited her. She is welcome any time she wants to visit. And as I stated, she may have an overall map, but has not uncovered hers just yet”. This map has, after all, survived being housed elsewhere and moved to the current location in 1936 after the original brick courthouse, constructed in 1836 was torn down to make way for the current courthouse.
“The map was sent out for preservation and framing September 2020, with the volumes included in our most recently awarded grant from the Library of Virginia at the time. But due to supply issues with framing materials, we did not have the map returned to us until May 2022. Luckily, the volumes included in our $41,121.00 grant award did not take that long to be returned. I am excited to say we have quadrupled the amount of grant awards since my first year in office. I started with a $12,107 award in 2020, increased that to $41,121.00 in 2021, and will hopefully soon find out if our 2022 $40,819.75 grant was approved. Tracy Harter, Senior Local Records Archivist with the Library of Virginia, has been very helpful in our quest to conserve Warren County’s oldest records. Tracy travels the state visiting every courthouse to determine materials in the most vulnerable condition and makes recommendations for conservation and preservation.
Do we dare now call this court clerk’s office the Warren County Circuit Clerk’s Office and Historical Museum of the Creation of Shenandoah National Park, we asked.
Circuit Court Clerk Moore examines records related to the creation of Shenandoah National Park.
“I am very proud of the efforts this office has taken to make land records more accessible through digitization and conservation in the past three years. I have managed to have all deed books, plats, and will books digitized. This is a huge benefit to those who most frequent the land record room, as land records are available through Secured Remote Access. This has cut down on overall foot traffic to the record room, which also helps in the conservation effort, as materials are not manually handled as often. My plan is to continue digitizing law books and chancery files in the future, as well as preserving additional Shenandoah National Park documents. Rockingham County Circuit Court Clerk Chaz Haywood, who we have discovered also has a full park map, has put me in contact with Dr. Kevin Borg and Dr. Kevin Hegg with James Madison University, who have created Histories along the Blue Ridge, which is accessible by visiting https://omeka.lib.jmu.edu. My hope is to include materials located in Warren’s record room to this site. It’s a lot of work I look forward to completing in the years to come”.
Moore ponders land and estate records housed in the clerk’s office, some of which have been authorized for preservation efforts and funding by the state, as well as digitization for ease of access to involved parties needing access to those records.
Local News
Safety First: ACES Drives Initiative to Protect Pedestrians on West Criser Road
Push for High-Visibility Flex-Stakes Aims to Secure Prominent Front Royal Routes.
In Front Royal, the ever-busy West Criser Road plays a pivotal role for pedestrians, cyclists, and students. Recognizing the road’s prominence and inherent dangers, the Advisory Committee for Environmental Sustainability (ACES) is spearheading a crucial fundraising campaign. Their objective? To install high-visibility flex-stakes, enhancing the road’s safety and ensuring a secure passage for all.
West Criser isn’t just any road in Front Royal; it forms an integral connection between Eastham Park and the esteemed Skyline High School, creating a widely frequented loop. Cyclists, joggers, and walkers often use this scenic route to revel in the town’s natural beauty or engage in daily exercises. Moreover, the pathway is indispensable for students traveling to and from Skyline High and Skyline Middle School.
However, the increasing foot and vehicular traffic warrants a closer examination of the road’s safety features. The proposed flex-stakes, with their high-visibility feature, are specifically designed to draw attention to the pedestrian shoulder, offering a clear and safe boundary. This installation is not only expected to shield pedestrians and cyclists but also act as a reminder for drivers to slow down, particularly in this densely populated zone.
ACES’s commitment to environmental sustainability has always been evident in its various initiatives. With this campaign, they extend their dedication towards ensuring that Front Royal’s natural beauty can be enjoyed safely by all its residents. This fundraiser isn’t just about installing stakes; it’s about building a more secure community, one flex-stake at a time.
As ACES pushes forward with its mission, community support becomes paramount. Donations, both big and small, can play a part in safeguarding the residents of Front Royal and enhancing the overall safety of West Criser Road. With collective effort and community backing, these high-visibility flex-stakes will soon become a reality, offering peace of mind to many.
Please consider donating to help make this section of roadway safer for everyone to use.
Local News
Adverse Weather Can’t Dampen Spirits at Celebrate Kids Day
As dark clouds loomed and Tropical Storm Ophelia made its presence felt on September 24th, the Warren Coalition’s 10th annual Celebrate Kids Day proceeded with a vigor and energy that the storm couldn’t dampen. A change in venue to the Health & Human Services Complex did little to deter hundreds of families from partaking in this beloved event.<br><br>
The popular inflatable rides found a new home at the 15th Street Gym, thanks to a quick-thinking reorganization plan. Nearby, Diversified Minds from Warren County Public Schools offered their conference room for local agencies to set up shop. The sheer number of attendees highlighted the event’s significance: rooms brimming with activities, face painting sessions in the “band room,” and games galore.
Though the pony ride vendor had to cancel, the rest of the outdoor activities, like the pitch burst and petting zoo, stood their ground. Nearly a thousand visitors, both young and old, made their way through the attractions, enjoying everything from a T-ball challenge to inflatable rock walls.
A young girl pets one of the animals brought in by Heavenly Heart Farm and Mini Petting Zoo.
Inside, organizations like the Salvation Army, St. Luke’s Community Clinic, and the Department of Social Services, to name a few, had tables set up, offering a range of activities and information. As children flitted between buildings, taking in all the fun, some were drawn to the pitch burst. There, brave volunteers sat poised for a splashy surprise, all in good fun and for a charitable cause, raising over $6,000.
Thanks to generous sponsors like Front Royal Dental Care, Fraternal Order of Police, and City National Bank (which covered the entire petting zoo’s expenses), the event’s price remained a mere dollar per child. Local businesses, from Horton’s Nursery and Garden Center to Martin’s, also chipped in, showcasing a heartwarming communal spirit.
Reflecting on the day, Christa Shifflett, Executive Director of the Warren Coalition, remarked, “This is a testament to our community’s resilience and togetherness. Everyone, from sponsors to parents, played their part, ensuring that Celebrate Kids Day was a roaring success, even in the face of unpredictable weather.” The Warren Coalition, a beacon for health care and substance abuse awareness since 1994, remains dedicated to fostering a safe and nurturing environment in Warren County.
Local News
Shenandoah Rail Trail: An Ambitious Vision On Track
Stitching Towns and Nature Together with a 50-Mile Thread.
A broad coalition of elected officials, economic development leaders, business owners, nonprofit partners, and state legislators gathered last week in Front Royal to discuss progress on the proposed Shenandoah Rail Trail. This ambitious 50-mile multi-use trail would convert an abandoned railroad corridor into a shared-use path connecting nine towns and three counties along the Shenandoah Valley.
The meeting provided an opportunity to update Senator Tim Kaine on the status of the project and emerging funding opportunities. Kaine has been a longtime supporter of the trail, noting during the discussion that he’s an avid cyclist familiar with the region’s trails. “When I first heard about plans for the Shenandoah Rail Trail, I thought it would work great, and it’s exciting to see the progress made,” he said.
Kaine emphasized the value of demonstrating successful trails to gain local buy-in, saying, “The more model trails are up and running, the more small towns can see the benefits and want to get on board.”
The diverse group highlighted how their coordinated efforts are building momentum for the project. Natasha Skelton of The Conservation Fund, which is negotiating the acquisition of the corridor from Norfolk Southern, said: “We have strong localized support up and down the corridor, with all nine towns and three counties in agreement that this is what they want to do with the vacant rail line.”
The newly formed Friends of the Shenandoah Rail Trail will spearhead private fundraising efforts. The trail partnership is also pursuing federal funding through a $25 million RAISE grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. At the state level, $35 million has been allocated so far from the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Proponents emphasized the potential economic benefits of the trail for tourism and small businesses focused on outdoor recreation. “We see this as an asset that businesses can build off of,” said Joe Petty, Executive Director of the Front Royal/Warren County Economic Development Authority.
Others highlighted community engagement progress, including a series of public meetings that collected input on trail preferences from over 700 residents. Outreach to diverse populations, such as non-English speaking poultry plant workers who could use the trail to commute, is also underway.
The scenic value of trail bridges slated to cross rivers and rail lines was noted as iconic attractions for visitors. Local connections via trails and greenways linking to the main corridor will also help residents access the amenities.
Senator Kaine’s visit gave the partners a high-profile platform to share their vision and progress. With strong local alignments, funding pursuits underway, and engagement efforts to spread awareness, the Shenandoah Rail Trail initiative appears to be building unstoppable momentum.
Local News
Behind the Badge: A Day in the Life of a Warren County Sheriff’s Animal Control Officer
Protecting the Animal Kingdom, One Day at a Time.
At first glance, Deputy Greg Long of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office may look like any other law enforcement officer. But, his daily encounters with animals of all kinds, from snakes to stray cats, set him apart.
Deputy Long serves as the county’s primary animal control officer. This role sees him overseeing the annual statistics of received animals, ensuring that the training requirements for the animal control division are up to par, and liaising with the general public about animal-related matters.
Not just limited to domesticated pets, Deputy Long’s responsibilities also extend to inspecting commercial kennels twice a year and managing the dangerous dog registry. These dogs, once identified as ‘dangerous,’ are subjected to yearly checks to guarantee public safety. Even hybrid animals, which surprisingly find their homes in the county, aren’t exempt from these periodic checks.
Despite what some might think, animal control isn’t a one-person job. The department also employs several animal control officers who aid in handling various situations. These situations range from dealing with livestock to answering calls about injured wildlife. Their collaboration with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries ensures that injured wildlife, such as deer or birds of prey, receive the proper care they need.
When asked about the necessity of having deputies handle animal control, Deputy Long explained the intricate legal framework surrounding animal control. Officers go through rigorous training, amassing 120 hours of comprehensive learning. This training educates them on first aid for animals, recognizing different species and breeds, and even discerning potential rabies cases.
One of the many commendable initiatives under the purview of the department is its emergency sheltering plan. Echoing the challenges faced during hurricanes in states like Florida and Louisiana, where animals were left stranded due to inadequate shelter provisions, Warren County’s response involves a fully equipped trailer. This trailer, loaded with essentials like cages and ID tags, aims to ensure that no pet is left behind during natural or man-made disasters.
The vehicle that Deputy Long operates may appear ordinary, but it’s specially adapted for animal transport. Designed with the comfort and safety of the animals in mind, it boasts air-conditioned cages, ensuring animals aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. From dogs to ducks, this vehicle can transport a variety of animals safely and comfortably.
One challenge that Deputy Long highlighted is the issue of stray cats. While many might think that animal control should handle these felines, the reality is more complex. The shelter’s policies allow them to accept cats only under specific conditions.
At the end of the day, whether it’s assisting a neighbor distressed by a barking dog or untangling a dog that’s gotten itself caught up, Deputy Long and his colleagues are committed to serving both the human and animal residents of Warren County.
Local News
VDOT: Warren County Traffic Alert for September 25 – 29, 2023
The following is a list of highway work that may affect traffic in Warren County during the coming weeks. Scheduled work is subject to change due to inclement weather and material supplies. Motorists are advised to watch for slow-moving tractors during mowing operations. When traveling through a work zone, be alert to periodic changes in traffic patterns and lane closures.
*NEW* or *UPDATE* indicates a new or revised entry since last week’s report.
INTERSTATE 66
Mile markers 6 to 9, eastbound and westbound – Overnight single right lane closures for inspection of bridge over Norfolk Southern Railway and Shenandoah River, 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Wednesday night.
*NEW* Mile marker 9 to 7, westbound – Right shoulder closures for sign work, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
INTERSTATE 81
Mile marker 299 to 300, northbound and southbound – Overnight lane closures as needed for road and bridge work, 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. through the night of November 27. Shoulder closures 24/7. Work zone speed limit: 55 miles an hour. Work is related to southbound acceleration ramp extension and bridge widening, with estimated completion in fall 2024.
PRIMARY ROADS
Route 340 (Stonewall Jackson Highway) – Shoulder closures between Route 619 (Rivermont Drive) and Route 607 (Rocky Lane) for tree removal operations, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday.
Route 522 (Remount Road) – Flagger traffic control between Route 665 (Chester Gap Road) and Route 604 (Harmony Hollow Road) for tree removal operations, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday.
SECONDARY ROADS
Route 702 (Baugh Drive) – Flag traffic control between Baker Plaza and Route 661 (Fairground Road) for paving operations, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through October 6.
Vegetation management may take place district-wide on various routes. Motorists are reminded to use extreme caution when traveling through work zones.
Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511. Traffic alerts and traveler information also are available at www.511Virginia.org.
Local News
A Salute to General Daniel Morgan: Virginia’s Revolutionary War Hero
Honoring a Legend: SAR Dedicates Plaque at the Historic Burwell-Morgan Mill.
Millwood, Clarke County, Virginia – General Daniel Morgan, a stalwart of the American Revolution, was honored with a dedication ceremony hosted by the Colonel James Wood II Chapter of the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) on 15th September 2023. The picturesque Burwell-Morgan Mill served as the backdrop for the event, with a bronze plaque celebrating the General’s extraordinary life taking center stage in the meadow.
Daniel Morgan’s journey from a young New Jersey lad to a Virginia legend is one for the books. As a youngster who could hardly read or write, he ventured to Virginia, making the Shenandoah Valley his home. From his humble beginnings as a teamster to playing a crucial role in the War for Independence, his life was nothing short of extraordinary. Morgan’s resilience was evident when, after receiving a near-fatal injury from an ambush outside Fort Edward, he carried the scars and stories proudly. His tactical brilliance shone brightest at the Battle of Saratoga and later, Cowpens, setting the stage for Cornwallis’ eventual defeat.
Virginia State SAR Honor Guard at present arms. Photos courtesy of Brian Bayliss
Virginia State SAR Musket Squad.
The event was a grand spectacle, with the Virginia SAR State Color Guard presenting colors and dignitaries from various societies paying their respects. Marc Robinson emceed, while Paul McComb undertook chaplain duties. The guest list was illustrious: Mid-Atlantic District Vice President General James Engler, Sr; Virginia Society SAR President Ernie Coggins; representatives from DAR and C.A.R., among others. Dale Corey painted a vivid picture of Morgan’s life after which numerous SAR Societies and DAR Chapters presented wreaths in the General’s honor.
As James Graham, Morgan’s biographer, once wrote, his “strength and spirit, his frank and manly bearing, his intelligence and good humor” made him beloved by many. This sentiment echoed throughout the ceremony as attendees remembered the General’s influence on the colonial victory.
The event reached its crescendo with Anita Bonner and Jocelynn Wilson leading the attendees in a rendition of “God Bless America,” culminating in a musket salute by the Virginia State Color Guard.
In an era where heroes often emerge from the pages of fiction, General Daniel Morgan’s story stands as a testament to the mettle and spirit of real-life warriors. This dedication serves not only to commemorate his incredible life but also to inspire future generations to value sacrifice, strategy, and resilience.
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