Tours
A REVOLUTIONARY TOUR
Halifax, Va
Discover Halifax County’s revolutionary past and celebrate VA250 on this day and a half tour of historic sites.
2 Days
Medium Activity
Day 1
STOP : LOOKING BACK
Begin the day with trip to the South Boston-Halifax County Museum. Exhibits include a spotlight of local figures, war memorabilia, a recreation of a country store, in addition to newly added pieces on The Crossing of the Dan and The Golden Age of Tobacco. Visitors can also learn about family and local history at museum’s Genealogy and Research Center, one of the most sophisticated in Southern Virginia.
STOP : CROSSING OF THE DAN INTERPRETIVE DISPLAY
Head to downtown South Boston to visit the Crossing of the Dan memorial. A turning point in the American Revolutionary War, the Race to the Dan ended at the shores of the Dan River in South Boston. This interpretive display, complete with a replica ferry, will help broaden your understanding of The Race to the Dan.
GPS Coordinates: 36°41’40.3″N 78°54’16.0″W
STOP : CROSSING OF THE DAN MONUMENT
After viewing the interpretive signs and display, make the short walk to the banks of the Dan River. This is the site of Boyd’s Ferry, where Greene and his men would have crossed the river one cold February night in 1781. Greene and his men are honored with a monument on the site, overlooking the quiet river.
STOP : LUNCH IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SOUTH BOSTON
After exploring Boyd’s Ferry, grab a bite to eat in historic Downtown South Boston. Choose between several local eateries such as Southern Plenty, Main Street Bar & Grill, Paco’s or Lips Smacking Soul Food. Weather permitting, dine outside for views of Main Street and the surrounding historic district. Or, order your food to go, and dine in Constitution Square overlooking the Dan River and Boyd’s Ferry. Finish lunch with a cupcake or ice cream from KJ’s Cake Creations.
STOP : REFRESHMENTS AT FACTORY STREET
After lunch, pop in to Factory Street Brewing Company for a refreshing craft beer. Housed in a historic tobacco warehouse, the brewery pays homage to its past with a variety of vintage signs and processing equipment. The dedication doesn’t end there – two craft beers are inspired by The Crossing of the Dan, including the Boyd’s Ferry Stout and the 1781 English Brown Ale. Talk with the beertenders and patrons while sipping your brew, or pick from a selection of board games.
STOP : BANISTER CROSSING
After a drink, hop in your car and head north to Halifax. After passing though the charming Main Street, continue to King’s Bridge Landing. This canoe and kayak launch is the former site of Cole’s Ferry, where Greene and his men crossed the Banister River for added protection (should Cornwallis and his men made it past the Dan). The site is now a canoe and kayak launch on the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, and will soon have a sign about the Cole’s Ferry/Banister Crossing.
STOP : BRIGHT MEADOWS FARM & VINEYARD
After your slight detour, head through the rolling farmland of the northern part of the county to Bright Meadows Farm and Vineyard. The Archers, who own and operate the vineyard, take pride in local history, which can be found in the glass of wines they serve. Considering the help with the annual Crossing of the Dan Commemoration, it’s no surprise to find Rebellion Red on the menu. Enjoy a chat with the Archers, or relax and take in the views of rural Virginia.
STOP : HISTORIC BERRY HILL RESORT
Check in for your stay at the historic Berry Hill Resort. Choose between the well-appointed rooms of the resort or the stately suites located inside the mansion. Take an hour to relax or explore the elegant mansion before dinner.
STOP : SOUTHERN FARE AND HOSPITALITY
Have dinner on-site at Berry Hill. Start with cocktails crafted by the mixologist at the Parlor Bar. Then enjoy a meal at The Mansion Restaurant, serving fare inspired by the culinary traditions of the south. Or opt for the more casual Darby’s Tavern, located in the former kitchen of the family’s cook, Darby. After dinner, relax by the pool, in the sauna, or fireside before retiring for the evening.
Day 2
STOP : TOBACCO HERITAGE TRAIL TO IRVINE’S FERRY
Before leaving, be sure to walk to Irvine’s Ferry, on the Tobacco Heritage Trail. the second location where Greene and his men crossed the Dan River. Accessed by the resort’s trail system, Irvine’s Ferry is roughly a 2.5 mile walk from the resort. This rail trail winds alongside the Dan River, offering glimpses of the river, wildlife, and native fauna. After just under two miles on the Tobacco Heritage Trail, you’ll reach on old wagon trace, which would have led to Irvine’s Ferry. Greene’s men used this trail in the initial crossing, as well as a subsequent one in pursuit of Cornwallis. In the future, this location will be marked by sign.
GPS Coordinates: 36°41’21.9″N 78°57’38.5″W
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