Yesterday, July 29, 2023 at 12 noon was a “milestone” achieved by the Virginia Lewis and Clark Legacy Trail. The very first Virginia Historical Marker with a supplemental Lewis and Clark-themed plaque was unveiled and dedicated in Radford, Virginia. The Ingles Ferry marker and plaque were unveiled and dedicated in a ceremony of the grandest American style complete with: a Bagpipe played by Andrew Meeks; Presentation of Colors by VFW Post 776, Radford, Va; Pledge of Allegiance by Robert Taylor, SAR, Fincastle Resolutions Chapter; and Diane Catley, DAR, Alleghany Chapter. A Prayer of Gratitude was offered by Dana Jackson, Harvey-Howe-Carper Post 30, American Legion. Also attending was Alex Chaney who represented The Virginia Department of Transportation, Residency Office in Christiansburg, Va.
A Welcome was provided by April Martin, VLCLT board member and Chair, VLCLT Committee -Pulaski County/City of Radford, followed by a Greeting from Peggy Crosson, VLCLT President.
Mr. Tucker Lemon, Chairman, Board of Directors for the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR), gave a brief history of the DHR organization and congratulated those involved with obtaining the Ingles Ferry marker/plaque and those involved with coordinating the unveiling event. Mayor David Horton, City of Radford, extended his welcome on behalf of the City, and talked about the importance of the Ingles Ferry Marker which educates the public about the ferry travels of early settlers which was located near The Wilderness Road.
Ingles Family members joined each other for the marker unveiling and Laura Walters, Ingles District and Chairperson, Pulaski Board of Supervisors, thanked all for attending. Andrew Meeks on Bagpipes closed the event with the song, “Leaving Port of Ascaig.”
On behalf of the Virginia Lewis and Clark Legacy Trail, Inc., we wish to thank all who worked for, attended and participated in this memorable occasion. We are grateful for the Ingles Family who traveled for the ceremony, as well as the family and owners of nearby Ingles Farm. We are grateful for VLCLT Board members who attended. And last but not least, we acknowledge the talents and persistence of our own April Martin, VLCLT board member, who wrote the approved DHR application for the historical marker and plaque, and was the reason for the Ingles Ferry Marker/ Plaque unveiling and dedication ceremony.
Photos of the event follow. They are provided by photographer, James (Jim) Johnston, VLCLT Board member and Treasurer.
