The Great Falls Park and Mather Gorge, Virginia

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Denise and Charlie decided Les and I should visit the Great Falls and Mather Gorge, only 15 minutes from their home. It is here, so near the Nation's Capital, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series steep, jagged rocks and flows through a narrow gorge, the Mather Gorge. The river here was a trading place for American Indians and early colonists, and it is still a gathering place. The atowmack Company was organised in 1784 to construct a series of five canals to make the river navigable with George Washington presiding over the effort, a dream of his since his youth When he surveyed the river and its tributaries. He was convinced that such canals would stimulate trade between the East and the Ohio Valley. During the 26 years the canal system was in operation, flour, corn, whiskey, furs, tobacco, iron ore, and timber were poled down the river on flatboats, about 75 feet long, five feet wide and pointed at both ends taking about three days to travel the 190-plus miles from Cumberland to Georgetown. In 1790 the town of Matildaville was sponsored by an American Revolutionary War hero, "Lighthorse Harry" Lee. The town near Great Falls flourished for nearly 30 years, leaving behind only ruins to be seen now.

After delivering Eva and Matilda to school on the Thursday morning, much to their dismay, we drove the short distance with the family dog, Max also in tow. The gorge looked spectacular with the rich autumn trees showing off their colours. Charlie was our self-designated tour guide and provided wonderful direction and information throughout, stopping along the way to point out many special interests as he recalled his previous visits.

It was a beautiful outing with our gorgeous grandson, daughter-in-law and the family pet; an outing never to be forgotten. Again, that evening, stories of the day's events were exchanged with enthusiasm and laughter over dinner.

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Photos

Charlie enjoys the ruins

This is how it's done Poppy!