The James River and Kanawha Canal Exhibit

The James River & Kanawha Canal Exhibit

For the past month, the Historical Society has been quite busy restoring dioramas that represent the James River and Kanawha Canal through Goochland.  We had a model of Tuckahoe plantation built, and we restored a model of an aqueduct, coal and wood boats, Lock 9 in front of the Lockkeeper’s house, and a furnished representation of the Lockkeeper’s house.  Joe Higgins, the husband of Kay Higgins, a volunteer at the Historical Society, and Laura Meadows, the Historical Society’s Intern worked on the project during the entire month of April.

Laura Meadows works on restoring the bridge

With the help of Andy Donnelly and Scott Johnson, both volunteers at the Historical Society, all boxes and dioramas were successfully moved into the 22 ft. x 3 ft. display space located in J. Sargeant Reynolds’ new Community Room.  The new exhibition was officially opened at an event hosted by J. Sargeant Reynolds’ Community College on April 26, 2013.

Joe Higgins and Andy Donnelly prepare to move the boxes into the display space for the first time.

Over 100 people attended the “Garden Party” in the 2,145 sq. ft. Community Room that will house the Society’s exhibit.  A large table of assorted cheeses and finger foods kept the crowd entertained before J. Sargeant Reynolds’ Community College President Gary Rhodes welcomed everyone and introduced Society President Wayne Dementi and Executive Director Phyllis Silber.  All who spoke reminded the crowd of the team effort involved with bringing this Community Room and exhibit to fruition.

Intern Laura Meadows, Nam Rhodes, wife of J. Sargeant Reynolds’ President Gary Rhodes, and Society Board member Ginny Olsen

Afterwards, the attendees were invited to take guided tours of the campus and gardens.  The event brought attention to the college that is part of Goochland’s fabric.  The James River and Kanawha Canal exhibit is not permanent but will be on display for the next few months.  Goochlanders should take the chance to stop by the campus to see the exhibit and tour the gardens.

The photo wall, part of the collaboration between the Society and J. Sargeant Reynolds