Bluegrass, history meet at Menokin

Follow us on

Bluegrass festival brings visitors to historic Northern Neck home considering glass walls

Date published: 4/15/2007

By Rob Hedelt

WHEN bluegrass fans and history lovers gather Saturday at Menokin in Richmond County, they'll do so near one of the most historic ruins around.

Not far from a bandstand that will hold acts such as the Grammy-nominated Blue Highway sit the remains of the grand Colonial home of Francis Lightfoot Lee, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

The fourth annual Menokin Bluegrass Festival, from noon to 6 p.m., raises money and awareness for an active foundation's effort to protect the once-grand estate.

Last year, the bluegrass festival drew about 1,700 people to the farmland and forest near Warsaw. Passing on information about this year's event gives me a chance to mention what's new at the historic attraction.

Sarah Pope, executive director of the Menokin Foundation, said one of the most exciting recent developments is a growing belief that a shell of glass might be the best way to preserve and show off the remaining portions of the mansion.

That approach, little more than a vague notion last year, has moved to the point that a full feasibility study on the concept should start soon.

"What we're looking for is the best way to maximize what we have here that's unique," said Pope. "The fact that we have open remains of a house where visitors can see components from all sides is what makes us unique. Visitors can see from all sides how an 18th-century house really went together."

Pope noted that the open nature of the house, with more sections of walls and roof missing than in place, is also a problem.

Missing sections of walls and roof make it impossible to keep out moisture, wind and critters, despite a large cover that rises over the house.

An architect has suggested that strong, laminated panels of glass could fill in spots where wall or roof sections are missing.

With input from a national firm that includes glass in many of its buildings, the Menokin staff and trustees are interested enough in the notion to study the cost and possibility of using glass to make the house whole again.

Menokin Bluegrass Festival When: Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., at Menokin estate near Warsaw Acts: Blue Highway, Infamous Stringdusters, Old School Freight Train, Barrel House Mamas and Gas Money Band Tickets: $20, available from Picker's Supply in Fredericksburg; Northern Neck Gourmet and Belle Mount Vineyards in Warsaw; Doc's Music & Rivahside Cafe in Tappahannock More: Tickets and info also available at menokinbluegrass .com or by calling 804/333-0512.

Date published: 4/15/2007