April 8- Berkely Plantation

This is one of many historical plantations along the James river. We chose to visit this one because it was the most historical. A signer of the Declaration of Independence lived here- Benjamin Harrison. His third son, William Harrison, was the ninth president of the United States, and William's grandson, Benjamin was the 23rd president. The first ten presidents had visited the plantation at different times. In 1862 President Lincoln reviewed Gen. George McClellan's army camped there. "Taps" was composed there that same year. And the first bourbon whiskey in American was distilled at this planation in 1621-1622. The gardens there, with blooming Spring plants- especially redbud and dogwood-- were pleasant to walk through down to the river. There was also a boxwood garden. Interestingly enough, the present owners are still living on the second floor of the house. And it is currently a working farm.