Pear Valley, an Unknown Treasure on Virginia's Eastern Shore

Last year, I had the opportunity to visit Pear Valley for a "private tour". When you see the small structure, you might ask yourself "And.....?" But the history that emanates from this building is amazing. It was exciting to see how people once lived, and you could feel the souls that occupied that house and worked the surrounding land.

Pear Valley is located in Eastville, Virginia, just 15 minutes from +Fig Street Inn. It's one of Northampton County's oldest landmarks and recently came under the tutelage of the Northampton Historic Preservation Society (NHPS).

It's not clear how it got its name, or who even built it for the Nottingham family, a common name here on the Eastern Shore. This yeoman's cottage dates back to 1740 and was occupied as late as the early 1900s. A yeoman was an independent, subsistence farmer who may have grown some crops for market.

One of the draws of Pear Valley is its unique architecture like its enormous chimney which spans the north gable end of the home and exhibits Flemish and Common bond brick laying techniques. Glazed header bricks form a chevron pattern that mirrors the slope of the roof. The other noticeable and notable feature is the tilted false plate and wooden peg joinery used on the roof. The wooden pegs also add a decorative element and are still intact.

Although these elements of high-quality craftsmanship were characteristic of the building techniques used in 1740, thirty-six years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Pear Valley is one of only two structures surviving in the state of Virginia that exhibit these now exceptional features. It is also one of only two U.S. National Historic Landmarks in Northampton County - the other being Eyre Hall which dates to 1760.

Pear Valley is currently open only by appointment, but we can make arrangements if it is something you want to experience on your visit to Cape Charles. Or you may contact NHPS directly at 757-999-1299 or visit their website at www.northamptonhistoricpreservationsociety.com.

Pear Valley is located off State Route 628 (Wilsonia Neck Drive) near Eastville, Virginia.

Romantic Carriage Ride for 2

Valentine's Day is just days away and it's a great reminder to take some time for yourself. This winter has been particularly cold so how about warming things up with a new adventure. If you've never been to Cape Charles, it's the perfect time to discover our town. It's quieter but many of our shops and restaurants are open which usually means you'll get personalized attention.

This year, Aqua Restaurant, Kelly's Gingernut Pub, Hook-U-Up Gourmet and Coach House Tavern are each offering special dinner menus for the Valentine's weekend. And because it's a holiday weekend, you can enjoy these menus Friday, Saturday or Sunday. You'll definitely want a reservation no matter where you choose to go, or on what day.

New to town this year is a horse-drawn carriage ride with Pfeiffer Riding Stables, and you definitely need to reserve your time for this treat. Miss Angie (as we affectionately call her - we are big fans of her and what she does) will take you on a 30-minute ride up and down our charming bayside streets. She is always happy to talk about her horses, the history of our town, or just let you be while you enjoy some time with your loved one.

But before you start your ride, you will want to stop at Gull Hummock Gourmet Market to pick out your bottle of wine and handmade chocolates by Cape Charles Confectionery. Enjoy them during your ride, or take them back to the inn for later. These are included with your ride, and you will also receive a $25 gift certificate to Moonrise Jewelry and olive oil tasting at Drizzles....all for $100. It's a unique, one-of-a-kind experience, found only in Cape Charles.

Don't worry if you can't make it this weekend. You should celebrate with your Valentine as often as you can, and you can enjoy this great package with Pfeiffer Riding Stables through the spring. Give them a call at 757-331-0828 to schedule your visit.