2017 Legacy of Mary Ingles Encampment and Living History Event
Each September since 1989, the Mary Ingles Trail Associates have presented a historical encampment based on research of the life of Mary Draper Ingles. This year marks the 262nd anniversary of Mary Ingles' odyssey. In 1755, the Virginia frontier was embroiled in the turmoil of the French and Indian War, and it was also in 1755 that Mary was captured by, and escaped from, Shawnee Indians. Accompanied by a German woman captive taken only a few weeks earlier than Mary, the two women followed the rivers and traveled nearly 500 miles on foot through the wilderness to reach home. That journey took her through western Virginia. School Day - Friday We focus on education and hands-on activities on the school days. Each group of children will see at least five different demonstrations (approximately 15 minutes each, but may vary). Please allow at least three hours in your day to tour the camp and watch the demonstrators. Our reservations are filled on a first come-first served basis. We only take 400 people per school day! (200 at 9:30 a.m.; 200 at 11:00 a.m.) Homeschool, Public School, and Private School are all welcome Public Days - Saturday & Sunday Dramatic presentations and explorations into the lives of some of the people who influenced Mary’s life will be ongoing throughout the day. Visitors to the camp may also be able to interact with interpreters who have researched: Tommy Ingles and his Indian father, a Shawnee warrior who is upset with the English, a Cherokee liaison between Will Ingles & Johnny Draper and their wives' Shawnee captors, a Virginia farm-wife, a salt maker, a trader, and others. On Public Days, the living history encampment is open: Saturday 9:00 - 3:00 Sunday 12:00 - 3:00 (Our church services is at 10:00 and all are welcome to join us, but the camps will be closed until 12:00). There is no charge to attend programs. MITA accepts donations to continue the annual production of this interpretative event.
Beech Fork State Park / Birds of Prey
"Who cooks for me, who cooks for you all?" What bird says this phrase? Come to this Birds of Prey Education Program featuring live birds native to West Virginia to learn about owls, hawks and eagles. You'll learn about the habitat, diet and behavior of each bird presented, the most common causes of injury to each species and the laws protecting these special birds. No fee to attend. Open to the public. 7:00 p.m. Presented by Three Rivers Avian Center. Meet Regis the Bald Eagle, Perry, the Peregrin Falcom, Hoolie, the Great Horned Owl and other feathered raptors. All welcome.
Beech Fork State Park – June 4 – National Trails Day
It's a pleasant hike/walk on the Nature Trail to celebrate National Trails Day. Meet Naturalist Brian Tabor at 9:45 a.m. behind park headquarters to set out for a walk. For those that want to set foot and hike, there is opportunity. Following the hike, Tabor will be a the boat dock and welcomes your questions as well as renting paddle-boats, etc., for afternoon fun on the water.