Lake Country Visitor & Newcomer Guide 2009 - (Page 80) The heritage of the region comes alive in its museums. 80 80 CLARKSVILLE REGIONAL MUSEUM I nside the Clarksville Regional Museum, stories unfold of Mecklenburg County and its lakeside town, Clarksville, historically perched on a hill above the Roanoke River. Multi-purpose rooms feature exhibits explaining such historic sites as Buffalo Springs, a mineral water resort, and the long-ago ferries that once crossed the Roanoke River. Museum coordinator Winnie Blanks will also tell you why Clarksville roads start on Second Street – not First. It all goes back to building the lake, she says. “There was a First Street down there,” Blanks explains, “and it went under water.” For years, this museum had been in operation along U.S. 58. Then it moved closer to town, at 801 West Street, in a historic home that showcases various exhibits on the lifestyles of yesteryear and Clarksville’s historic places. “I think when people see things that have been in the past,” Blanks says, “it links the past to the future.” Fortunately, as well, the museum has been blessed with a great cache of storytellers, like Gene Boyd, who helped survey much of the Roanoke River shoreline before the lake was constructed. At 87, Boyd, a World War II veteran, serves as the museum’s official greeter. And he recalls many of Clarksville’s earlier times, like some of the first boat races staged by a VFW post on Buggs Island Lake/John H. Kerr Reservoir in the 1950s. More memories, in the museum, come from 94-year-old MacLean Crowder, whose father started a clothing business in town, Crowder Brothers, in 1910. Many of the museum’s volunteers are also members of the Clarksville Ruritan Club – an organization that likes to give back by holding fundraisers around town to donate money to good causes, Blanks says. “If there’s a need in the community, we’re going to get together,” Blanks says. “We just help each other.” Smiling, Crowder adds, “It’s like a big family.” Clarksville Regional Museum focuses on exhibits that showcase the lifestyles of the lake’s yesteryear residents and historic places in Clarksville. North Bend Park and Marina Part of the Kerr Reservoir and was named one of America’s Top 100 Family Campgrounds (ranked 66th on ReserveAmerica’s 2005 nationwide list). Boydton, VA. 434/738-0059. Occoneechee State Park Situated near land first settled in the 13th century by the Occoneechee Indians, this lakeside haven boasts a year-round museum, a Native American Heritage Festival and Pow Wow in spring, miles of hiking trails, and camping cabins. Clarksville, VA. 434/374-2210. River Falls Park Easy access to the Roanoke River, overlook offers an excellent view of picturesque rapids, picnic area. Weldon, NC. 252/536-4836. Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail Impressive 19th-century canal construction, interactive museum, hiking trail and rustic bridges. Learn about the development of hydroelectric power and industry. Roanoke Rapids, NC. 252/537-2769. Southern Virginia ⁄ Northern North Carolina’s Lake Country
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