Year in Review: 2024
2024 was an eventful year, and we’d like to share what made it so special:
$500K Grant for the Glass House Project
Menokin was awarded a $500,000 grant from the VA Department of Historic Resources to support work on the Glass House Project. This significant grant will help us build back the front stairs, work you'll see come to fruition in mid-2025. Read the news article here.
Heritage Gardens: Growing History Together
The Heritage Gardens, created & maintained by Just Harvest, VA, were 3 different gardens that taught about Indigenous, African, & sustainable agricultural practices throughout time.
Makers Day: Celebrating Craftsmanship
In June, we hosted our 4th annual Makers Day & Market. With over 20 vendors and demonstrations, the event celebrated handmade crafts and sustainability, offering a full day of creative activities for the whole family.
Fairy Houses: Art in Nature
We added a whimsical touch to Menokin’s summer trails by installing Fairy Houses made by local community members throughout the woods. These small structures, blending art and architecture, sparked the imagination of visitors as they explored our beautiful grounds.
Kayak Season: Exploring Menokin’s Waters
With 18 kayaks, Menokin offered daily summer rentals and hosted multiple guided paddles. 350 Northern Neck students got out on the water as part of a watershed education experience. We also partnered with the Town of Warsaw, offering kayakers discounts at local eateries. Exploring historic Cat Point Creek by kayak has never been more fun!
Power of Place: A New Event
Our innaugural Power of Place: Conservation, Kayaking & Culture event happened in July. We also hosted our first kayak race! We look forward to bringing the event back June 28, 2025.
National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways Network
We were thrilled to become a Chesapeake Bay Gateways site this year! As part of this network, we invite the public to enjoy, experience and learn about this important watershed and all the resources it offers through educational and recreational activities.
Bingo Nights: Fun with the Community
We hosted Bingo & Beer nights in September at Menokin for some light fun with our local community.
Descendants’ Day
In October, we held our second in-person Descendants’ Day, welcoming over 130 descendants of enslaved individuals at Menokin. Together, we shared stories, hiked, kayaked, and learned more about each other through a meaningful panel discussion.
Special Visits: Senator & Secretary at Menokin
This year, we were honored to have VA Senator Richard Stuart and Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Travis A. Voyles visit Menokin to see the progress on the Glass House Project and our ongoing efforts to preserve both the physical site and its rich history.
Flashlight Tour: Exploring Menokin by Night
November brought a unique experience to Menokin with our Flashlight Tour. Visitors enjoyed a guided nighttime tour of the grounds, followed by a cozy bonfire and hot apple cider. We can’t wait to host more nighttime activities in 2025!