This program is brought to you by Caravati's Architectural Salvage, John Plashal Photo and Fred Schneider. The beautiful Belmead on the James occupies approximately 2300 acres of land that is extremely rich in history and powerful in visuals. The abandoned mansion on the property that was originally designed in 1845 for an eventual Civil War Brigadier General will be the central hub for our presentation and tour. This gothic revival architectural masterpiece that later served as the centerpiece for the education of over 10,000 African Americans will be the beginning and ending point of our narrated tour, which will also include visits to the granary, St. Edward's Cemetery, Memorial Circle, the piggery and the Historical Cemetery . Come join us on November 14th to fully experience the history of the Belmead on the James - from the early days of it's occupation by the Monacan Indian tribes, through the days of indentured servant Bartholomew Stovall and into it's tenure as the only male African American Catholic Military Academy in the history of the U.S. To make your experience extra unique, you will meet a graduate of that now demolished St. Emma Military Academy - Eugene Butler Class of '68 . His stories from his years as a SEMA Cadet are sure to captivate you, deepen your appreciation for the history of the property and hopefully lend to the widespread recognition that the Belmead on the James deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this event include an interior tour of the Belmead Mansion? Yes it will. And it is amazing.
How much walking is involved with this tour? While part of the tour includes a historical presentation with little or no walking, to maximize your experience and to fully appreciate the property's history, stretches of walking of up to 10 minutes will be required. Transportation for those with disabilites can be pre-arranged by contacting "john@johnplashalphoto.com". Comfortable walking shoes are therefore recommended.
Will this event include a tour of the St. Francis de Sales Girls School property? No it will not. ."The St. Francis de Sales Experience" is a different event that takes place on 11/7. Tickets to that tour can be found here: St. Francis de Sales Experience
Am I allowed to take pictures or video on the tour? Pictures are allowed. Drones are not. If your interests are strictly photographic, there is a photography tour event scheduled on 10/24 that offers full access to the entire property, including St. Francis. Tickets to that tour can be found here: The Belmead & St. Francis de Sales Photography Tour.
Are there bathrooms on site? Yes there are 2 of them.
What's the refund policy? Refund requests will be honored up to 7 days prior to the event, minus the Eventbrite ticket fee. Since this is an outdoor event, it runs the risk of cancellation due to inclement weather. The event will proceed in the presence of intermittent showers but will be cancelled due to forecasted persistent precipitation. Should the event be cancelled due to weather, full refunds will be issued.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?Printed or electronic ticket would be fine.
May I bring my dog? As much as we love canines, they are not permitted on this tour.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions? Yes. Please contact John Plashal at "john@johnplashalphoto.com" with any questions.