Okay, confession time.  I live not more than 4 miles from this historic landmark.  Several times a year the doors are opened, and the red flag is hung outside to symbolize The Stone House is open.  I have never been inside.  Sure, I drive past it countless times a week.  Yes, it is true I have lived in this area almost 20 years.  And, alas, it is also true I homeschool my kids...and uh, oh yeah, they’ve never been inside either.  Until today.  This was the day! 

Spring has come early here, and we were out frolicking in the glorious sunshine when we saw the famous red flag.  So, we went to the visitors center and got another years pass.  This usually signifies the start and end of our Battlefield career, because, for whatever reason, year after year, when I purchase the pass it dooms me to never return until the thing is expired...and then the entire process has to begin again.  So...now I am set.  Again.  For another year.

 

SO...we decided to go in the back door.  You can see straight thru to the front door where you can see the backside of Henry…..’s Hill— Which would be better than looking at Henry’s backside.  Probably...unless you are thinking royalty, but actually his brother is way cu...okay, so, you can see the back of Henry’s Hill which is where the Second Battle of Manassas ended. 

 

It was interesting to think the whole thing took place in this intersected area of 234 and 29, with the said Stone House in the middle.

 

The fascinating facts the kids learned about it were—the house was originally, both before and after the war, a tavern.  A colonial bed and breakfast if you would.  Although, looking inside it looked more like a Bed and Beerfest, because the bar area took up a good 1/4th of the downstairs.  The kids were disappointed to not be able to go upstairs.  So, it was a pretty short visit.  Basically, we saw the tavern area, a small dining room, and a historical museum type room. 

Outside, Spencer confirmed the only fact he knew, and cared about.  Indeed, the park ranger confirmed that the well contained the amputated remains of Civil War soldiers.  Then we spent a few moments exploring the outside of the house. 

Then it was time to run the field behind.  They had gone up to roll down the hill...but, after feeling how prickly the grass was, they decided it best to run.  Note:  I do have four children.  Speed Racer Spence is at the top of the hill. 

 

 

We also went to this farm on Pageland.  They have made a very nice pathway to it, and we heard some tree frogs coming out of hibernation!  They have only recently started this restoration I believe.  We still had fun exploring.  The kids loved this field (below) but I love the tree!!