Blackwater Blog

Blackwater Cemetery Directory Information

2011-08-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Blackwater Cemetery Directory

Alder
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right onto SR-604. Drive 5.6 miles. Cemetery is south of SR-604, about 400 feet east of the VA/TN line.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚35.130’ W083˚09.832’

Anderson
Directions: From Jonesville, cemetery is on SR-70, 0.4 miles north of SR-604. (small cemetery in back yard)

Asbury-Vance
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on to SR-603 (Back Valley Road). Drive about 1 mile. Cemetery is on the right.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚38.078’ W083˚02.438’

Austin Bledsoe
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604, then turn right at the Robinette Funeral Home onto SR-600 (Flower Gap Road) and the entrance will be on the right.
GPS Coordinates: At the entrance on the road - N36˚37.422’ W083˚02.262’
GPS Coordinates: At the cemetery up on the hill - N36˚37.381’ W083˚02.262’
Photo album is posted (9 photos).

Baker
Bloomer

Carter
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on 604 (A. J. Osborne Highway), veer right at a Y intersection on to SR-603 (Carter Cave Road). Drive about 4.7 miles. Cemetery is on the left.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚39.037’ W082˚57.293’
Photo album is posted (3 photos).

Childress
Collingsworth

Collins
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for about 6 miles. Cemetery is south of SR-604.

Creech

Davidson-Livesay
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for 3 miles. Cemetery is about 400 yards north of SR-604.

Duncan
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 (Dr. Andrew Jackson Osborne Highway), then right on SR-600 (Flower Gap Road), then turn left on SR-601 (Hickory Hill Road).
GPS Coordinates: N36˚38.917’ W082˚59.771’

Eldridge
Fannon

Flag Pond Church Cemetery – Pleasant View
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left onto SR-604 (A. J. Osborne Highway) for about 7 miles. Church is on the left and the cemetery is on the right.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚40.229’ W082˚57.081’
Photo album is posted (9 photos).

Flower Gap Church
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 (Dr. Andrew Jackson Osborne Highway), then turn right on SR-600 (Flower Gap Road). The cemetery and church are on the left.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚36.159’ W083˚01.523’
Photo album is posted (4 photos).

Gilliam-Joyner

Hampton
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, the cemetery is on SR-70 on the left side of the road, before coming to SR-610 (Lynn Flanary Road).
GPS Coordinates: N36˚35.668’ W083˚04.041’
Photo album is posted (8 photos).

Hickam

Hobbs
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on 604 (A. J. Osborne Highway), veer right at a Y intersection on to SR-603 (Carter Cave Road). Drive about 5.3 miles. Cemetery is on the left.

Horton-Roller

Hurd
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 (Dr. Andrew Jackson Osborne Highway), then right on SR-600 (Flower Gap Road), drive 3.9 miles, then turn right on Hillsville Road, drive 0.4 mile. Cemetery is on the right.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚35.707’ W083˚00.780’
Photo album is posted (2 photos).

Johnson
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 (Dr. Andrew Jackson Osborne Highway), then turn right on SR-600 (Flower Gap Road). The cemetery and church are on the left. Beside Flower Gap Church.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚36.159’ W083˚01.523’
Photo album is posted (2 photos).

Johnson
Johnson, George

Lambert
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for about 3.0 miles.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚36.731’ W083˚06.130’
Photo album is posted (5 photos).

Lawson, Hasten
Livesay

Livesay-Anderson
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for 1 mile.

Maness

McPherson
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-610 (Lynn Flanary Road). Entrance to the cemetery is on the left.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚36.364’ W083˚04.219’
Photo album is posted (8 photos).

McPherson
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 for 0.6 mile. Then right on SR-603 for 0.1 mile along the east bank of Blackwater Creek.

Moore
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for SR-604 for 5.5 mi. Cemetery is 300 yards north of SR-604.

Moore

Moore (colored)
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 for 200 feet.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚37.624’ W083˚03.013’
Photo album is posted (8 photos).

Munsey Cemetery (also known as George Munsey Cemetery)
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for 1.3 miles. Cemetery is on the right above a pasture field, not visible from the road.
GPS Coordinates: Entrance is located at N36˚37.301’ W083˚04.767’
Photo album is posted (12 photos).

Osborne – School (Bucktown Road)
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604 and pass the old school, take the first left after the school on Bucktown Road and the cemetery is ahead on the right maybe 300 yards. You can see the back of the school from the cemetery.
GPS Coordinates: Entrance is located at N36˚37.965’ W083˚01.838’
Photo album is posted (19 photos).

Osborne Chapel – East Cemetery
GPS Coordinates: N36˚38.917’ W082˚59.771’

Pace
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, past Sarepta Baptist Church on the left. Cemetery is on the hill behind the church.)

Payne Family
Poteet
Qualls

Roberts Family
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on 604 (A. J. Osborne Highway), veer right at a Y intersection on to SR-603 (Carter Cave Road). Drive about 0.3 miles to the entrance on the right.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚37.684’ W083˚01.476’

Robinette
Robinette-Collier
Robinette at Dona

Robinette Family
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on SR-604. The cemetery will be on the right on a small hill, across the road from the old Blackwater Baptist Church, before you get to the fire department building.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚37.541’ W083˚02.438’
Photo album is posted (17 photos).

Robinette – Flag Pond
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left onto SR-604 (A. J. Osborne Highway) for about 7 miles. Pass Flag Pond Church less than 0.5 mile.

Robinson

Sage
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right on SR-604 for 0.3 miles. Cemetery is the north of SR-604.

Sallings

Sarepta Cemetery (also known as Tomlinson Cemetery)
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn right just past Sarepta Church onto SR-610. The cemetery is on the left in a field across from the old, old school building.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚36.687’ W083˚04.041’
Photo album is posted (20 photos).

Surgener
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70 drive to the VA/TN line. The cemetery is beside the road on the left.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚35.668’ W083˚04.248’
Photo album is posted (5 photos).

Tankersley Family
Vicars
Williams

Willis
Directions: From Jonesville on SR-70, turn left on 604 (A. J. Osborne Highway), veer right at a Y intersection on to SR-603 (Carter Cave Road). Drive about 1.5 miles. Cemetery is on the left side of the road on a hill.
GPS Coordinates: N36˚37.898 W083˚00.407
Photo album is posted (7 photos).

Willis-Wallen
Zion

Photos from SR-604 Vardy to Flagpond

2011-08-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken on State Route 604 from Vardy all the way up to Flag Pond Community Church. The sunset is from Flag Pond.

Two clicks to Blackwater on an Internet talk radio show

2011-08-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

To listen to the talk radio show featuring Blackwater, Virginia --

It's 2 clicks away -
after you click to go to the link below, then... on the left, click on "Latest Episode"
http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/1947/appalachian-knowledge-economy

It is my first attempt as a newbie UM radio UH talk UM show UH host... The show opens with talk about Blackwater, Virginia and guest Jack Goins, Melungeon reseacher and author. Blackwater, Virginia will be featured again in the next show, which will be broadcast live on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 9AM EST. The first show focused on "Arts, crafts, festivals & heritage." The second show will focus on "Eco-tourism, heritage tourism, green buildings, e-commerce & k-commerce." To tune in, go to www.voiceamerica.com and click on "Business" on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 9AM.
Joan
http://www.blackwaterva.org/

scenes around Blackwater

2011-07-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

Benefit Singing in Blackwater

2011-07-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

There's an ad for a Benefit Singing in today's Powell Valley News...

Osborne Chapel Church in cooperation with Blackwater Volunteer Fire Co. will sponsor a benefit singing for the family of Amber Anderkin, fifteen-year-old cancer patient of Blackwater who will be traveling to St. Jude Hospital, Memphis, on August 4 for extensive surgery and treatment. The benefit singing will be held at the Blackwater Volunteer Fire Co. building on Saturday, July 30 at 7PM. All area churches, gospel groups, and individual singers are invited to participate. Food will be available beginning at 6PM.
Anyone wishing to donate, who cannot attend the benefit singing, may send donations to: Mrs. Joyce Neeley, Clerk & Treasurer, Osborne Chapel Church, (Amber Anderkin Fund), 164 Neeley Drive, Blackwater VA 24221. For more details or information, please call Mary Ruth Davidson (346-1539), Katie Osborne (346-3026) or Mitzi Jones (346-1731).

Blackwater to be featured on Internet Talk Radio

2011-07-29T12:03:00.001-07:00

Blackwater, Virginia will be one of the topics to be featured on the "Appalachian Knowledge Economy" talk radio show on Tuesday, August 2, 2011 at 9AM (Eastern time). To listen to the live broadcast, go to www.voiceamerica.com and click on "Business."

The talk radio show will include interviews with the following Guests:
THEME: Arts, crafts, festivals & heritage
GUESTS:
9:02am - Jack Goins www.jgoins.com Melungeon Researcher, Rogersville TN – The VA/TN Melungeons
9:18am - Lindy Turner www.vacationaqt.com The Appalachian Quilt Trail, TN/VA – a back roads barn-hopping tour
9:33am – Nancy Garrettson www.abingdonartsdepot.org The Arts Depot, Abingdon VA – artisans, year-round studios
9:48am - Debby Loggans www.roundthemountain.org ‘Round the Mountain, Abingdon VA – artisans and crafts

Date: August 2, 2011 – 9:00AM EST
Episode Title: Arts, crafts, festivals & heritage
Episode Description:
Sustainable development community models often begin with community arts, crafts, culture, music and heritage celebrations. These festivals can help to nurture a shared sense of place, build pride in heritage, and expand civic engagement. Current ecommerce offers instant access to global markets for artisans, crafters, and musicians. Could future kcommerce offer better global markets for historians, bloggers, and poets? What if the emerging Appalachian knowledge economy could create community knowledge centers as valued community assets? Like festivals, could that also encourage a shared sense of place and pride in heritage? Join the dialogue and tour through Appalachia. We will begin in Blackwater, Virginia with fiber to the home, the Melungeons, and the dulcimer. We will travel the back roads on a barn hopping tour. We will visit down home festivals and even an artisan gateway. Come, get a taste of authentic Appalachia and imagine the emerging Appalachian knowledge economy.

For more information about the Appalachian Knowledge Economy Internet talk radio show, go to www.voiceamerica.com and click on "Business." Then scroll down and click on "Shows." Then scroll down and click on "Appalachian Knowledge Economy."

In addition to the live broadcast, VoiceAmerica will post an archived file of the show on their website, so that people can listen to the show afterwards, at their own convenience.
Joan
www.blackwaterva.org

Blackwater Melungens

2011-07-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

Blackwater Melungens

This article, a reprint in 1948, talks about “black-water Springs,” an area which is known today as Blackwater. There have been many references by various Melungeon researchers over the years to this article. I have copied a portion of the article below and have listed the website where Joanne Pezzullo has posted the article with a helpful introduction.

“It was reprinted from the Knoxville Register September 6, 1848 quoting from the Louisville Examiner. (We are sorry to have lost the name of the southern paper from which this is taken.)

We give to-day another amusing and characteristic sketch from a letter of our intelligent and sprightly correspondent, sojourning at present in one of the seldom-visited nooks hid away in our mountains.

You must know that within ten miles of this owl's nest, there is a watering-place, known hereabouts as 'black-water Springs.' It is situated in a narrow gorge, scarcely half a mile wide, between Powell's Mountain and the Copper Ridge, and is, as you may suppose, almost inaccessible. A hundred men could defend the pass against even a Xerxian army. Now this gorge and the tops and sides of the adjoining mountains are inhabited by a singular species of the human animal called MELUNGENS.

The legend of their history, which they carefully preserve, is this. A great many years ago, these mountains were settled by a society of Portuguese Adventurers, men and women--who came from the long-shore parts of Virginia, that they might be freed from the restraints and drawbacks imposed on them by any form of government.

These people made themselves friendly with the Indians and freed, as they were from every kind of social government, they uprooted all conventional forms of society and lived in a delightful Utopia of their own creation, trampling on the marriage relation, despising all forms of religion, and subsisting upon corn (the only possible product of the soil) and wild game of the woods.These intermixed with the Indians, and subsequently their descendants (after the advances of the whites into this part of the state) with the negros and the whites, thus forming the present race of Melungens.

They are tall, straight, well- formed people, of a dark copper color, with Circassian features, but wooly heads and other similar appendages of our negro. They are privileged voters in the state in which they live and thus, you will perceive, are accredited citizens of the commonwealth. They are brave, but quarrelsome; and are hospitable and generous to strangers. They have no preachers among them and are almost without any knowledge of a Supreme Being. They are married by the established forms, but husband and wife separate at pleasure, without meeting any reproach or disgrace from their friends. They are remarkably unchaste, and want of chastity on the part of females is no bar to their marrying. They have but little association with their neighbors, carefully preserving their race, or class, or whatever you may call it: and are in every respect, save they are under the state government, a separate and distinct people. Now this is no traveller's story.

They are really what I tell you, without abating or setting down in aught in malice. They are behind their neighbors in the arts. They use oxen instead of horses in their agricultural attempts, and their implements of husbandry are chiefly made by themselves of wood. They are, without exception, poor and ignorant, but apparently happy.”

http://www.historical-melungeons.com/littels.html

photos from today's Blackwater & cemetery visits

2011-07-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

cemeteries, coon hunters & snake chaps

2011-07-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

There's a little team of folks working on creating online Blackwater cemetery directory this month. I'm out taking photos in Blackwater. I call it "cemetery hopping." We're gathering GPS coordinates, and writing down directions. We are using all available information from the Lee County Historical Society Cemetery Directory series and the courthouse deeds records. There are atleast 63 cemeteries in Blackwater. We are learning that one cemetery can have more than one cemetery name. For example, the Sarepta Cemetery is also known as the Tomlinson Family Cemetery. The panoramic views from these scattered cemeteries are stunningly beautiful... I am enjoying the adventure across the valley. I've learned that local coon hunters know where old cemeteries are located up on the ridges. I've also learned that should I venture up the mountain with a coon hunter guide, that I might need to be wearing "snake chaps." I've never heard of "snake chaps." Apparently, as they were described to me, they are leather and you wear them over your jeans/boots, so that when a snake does bite you when your walking in the woods, it can't get through the outer leather layer. Well, I've never said that the cemetery directory could become a comprehensive list. I am not going to produce a photo of every tombstone in Blackwater. However, with some snake chaps and a coon hunter tour guide, I'd certainly enjoy the hiking and taking photos in some of Blackwater's forgotten cemeteries, high up on the ridges. Wonder if the farmers coop store, Southern States, in Jonesville sells "snake chaps." I do LOVE living in Lee County. :) www.blackwaterva.org

Blackwater book available

2011-07-20T02:02:00.000-07:00

At the reunion, I saw a very nice book available for sale. It is styled like an annual for the Blackwater High School Class of 1961. The book was put together this year and includes some 2011 photos from around Blackwater. The book project, which began as a gift for an older relative, was put together by DeBord Photography. For more information, contact leann@debordhome.com or call (423) 276-0649.

July & August workshops

2011-07-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

BLACKWATER COMPUTER CENTER OFFERS CLASSES
Computer and Internet training workshops will continue through August 4, 2011 at the Blackwater Computer Center on Mondays at 11:00AM and Thursdays at 7:00PM.

On Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 7:00PM instructor Joan Minor will be teaching “Introduction to the Knowledge Economy.” The workshop will focus on how the Internet can bring about a whole new economic framework and what the emerging knowledge economy offers to rural communities and residents.

On Monday, July 25, 2011 at 11:00AM instructor Joan Minor will be teaching “Work from Home Online.” The workshop will not only identify legitimate opportunities available now, but also emphasize how to recognize work-from-home scams.

On Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 7:00PM instructor Joan Minor will be teaching “Using the Knowledge Economy.” The workshop will focus on new ways of securing and performing work in the emerging knowledge economy.

On Monday, August 1, 2011 at 11:00AM instructor Joan Minor will be presenting “Appalachia on the Web.” The workshop will reveal how the Appalachian region and culture are characterized through various websites on the Internet.

On Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 7:00PM instructor Joan Minor will presenting “Blackwater Online.” Anyone with any information regarding cemeteries in the Blackwater area is encouraged to attend, so that the Blackwater cemetery information can be placed onto the Blackwater website. Blackwater genealogy information could also be included. The Blackwater website is located at www.blackwaterva.org. Joan Minor will lead the one-hour cemetery information gathering activities as part of a “Blackwater Online” workshop. The workshop will include a visit to the Blackwater community website section where the cemetery information will be made available.

For additional information, contact Joan Minor in Rose Hill at 445-4600.

Computer Center Operating Hours

2011-07-14T14:06:00.000-07:00

I received another call today from a Lee County resident interested in using the Blackwater Computer Center. So I thought I'd post the operating hours up here again.

The Blackwater Computer & Internet Center is located on State Route 70 in the same building as the Blackwater post office. The center has 10 computers and highspeed Internet available. The center is free and open to the public.

The operating hours are:
Mondays: noon - 6PM
Tuesdays: noon-5PM
Wednesdays: noon-5PM
Thursdays: 1PM-7PM
Fridays: 10AM - 5PM
Saturdays: 10AM - 4PM

In addition, free computer and Internet training workshops are provided at the Blackwater Computer Center on Mondays at 11AM and Thursdays at 7PM. For more information, call Joan Minor at (276) 445-4600 in Rose Hill, Virginia.

Blackwater Cemetery Directory

2011-07-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

BLACKWATER CEMETERY INFORMATION REQUESTED
Anyone with any information regarding cemeteries in the Blackwater area is encouraged to meet at the Blackwater Community Computer Center (located on State Route 70 in the same building as the post office) on Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 7:00PM so that the Blackwater cemetery information can be placed onto the Blackwater website. Blackwater genealogy information could also be included. The Blackwater website is located at www.blackwaterva.org. Joan Minor will lead the one-hour cemetery information gathering activities as part of a “Blackwater Online” workshop. The workshop will include a visit to the Blackwater community website section where the cemetery information will be uploaded during July 2011. Accordingly, the “Blackwater Online” workshop which will include a focus on building an online Blackwater cemetery directory.

2011 Blackwater High School Reunion

2011-07-12T12:24:00.000-07:00

2011 Blackwater High School Reunion

2011-07-12T12:19:00.001-07:00

July 9, 2011 - annual Blackwater School reunion

2011-07-01T11:28:00.001-07:00

According to an announcement in the Powell Valley News ----

The annual Blackwater School reunion will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2011 beginning at 10:00AM at the school building. All faculty, staff and alumni are welcome. Please bring a covered dish for lunch.

Blackwater cemetery information requested

2011-07-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Do YOU have any Blackwater cemetery information??

Anyone with any information regarding cemeteries in the Blackwater area is encouraged to meet at the Blackwater Community Computer Center (located on State Route 70 in the same building as the post office) on Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 7:00PM so that the Blackwater cemetery information can be placed onto the Blackwater website. Blackwater genealogy information could also be included.

The Blackwater website is located at www.blackwaterva.org.

Joan Minor will lead the one-hour cemetery information gathering activities as part of a “Blackwater Online” workshop. The workshop will include a visit to the Blackwater community website section where the cemetery information will be uploaded during July 2011. Accordingly, the “Blackwater Online” workshop which will include a focus on building an online Blackwater cemetery directory.

For additional information, contact Joan Minor in Rose Hill at tel (276) 445-4600 or email joan@appalachianresources.com

July workshops schedule

2011-07-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

Mondays 11AM and Thursdays at 7PM

FREE TRAINING WORKSHOPS AT
BLACKWATER COMPUTER CENTER ---

July 2011 -

Monday, July 4, 2011 – NO CLASS –HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!!

Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Chelsey Rivers
topic: Building Dreams Online

Monday, July 11, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Chelsey Rivers
topic: Introduction to YouTube

Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor
topic: Blackwater Online

Monday, July 18, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Joan Minor
topic: How to Surf the Web

Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor
topic: Introduction to the Knowledge Economy

Monday, July 25, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Joan Minor
topic: Work from Home Online

Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor
topic: Using the Knowledge Economy

June & July workshops

2011-06-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Free computer and Internet training workshops
at the Blackwater Community Computer Center:

Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Harold Jerrell topic: Digital Photography

Monday, June 27, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Joan Minor topic: Using the Knowledge Economy

Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor topic: E-Commerce in Lee County

Monday, July 4, 2011 – NO CLASS –HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!!

Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Emily Persinger topic: Building Dreams Online

Monday, July 11, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Emily Persinger topic: Introduction to YouTube

Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor topic: Blackwater Online

Monday, July 18, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Emily Persinger topic: How to Surf the Web

Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor topic: What is the Knowledge Economy?

Monday, July 25, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
instructor: Emily Persinger topic: Work from Home Online

Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
instructor: Joan Minor topic: Using the Knowledge Economy

workshops March - May 2011

2011-03-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

Blackwater Computer Center
Computer and Internet Training Workshops

MARCH 2011

Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Learn to Type and Print

Monday, March 28, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Emily Persinger Introduction to Email

Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Intro to Local Websites

APRIL 2011

Monday, April 4, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell Digital Photography 1

Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Introduction to Email

Monday, April 11, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell Digital Photography 2

Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Introduction to Facebook

Monday, April 18, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell Digital Photography 3

Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Work from Home Online

Monday, April 25, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell Digital Photography 4

Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Introduction to Excel

MAY 2011

Monday, May 2, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell PowerPoint 1

Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Sell Your Crafts Online

Monday, May 9, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell PowerPoint 2

Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers Learn to Type and Print

Monday, May 16, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Emily Persinger Intro to Local Websites

Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger Introduction to Facebook

Monday, May 23, 2011 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell PowerPoint 3

Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger Introduction to the Internet

Monday, May 30, 2011 – NO CLASS - Memorial Day Holiday

Blackwater workshops resume on Jan 31

2011-01-20T08:26:00.001-08:00

Computer and Internet training workshops will resume on January 31, 2011 at the Blackwater Community Computer Center. These free workshops will be held on Mondays at 11:00AM and Thursdays at 7:00PM. Upcoming topics will be posted soon... stay tuned!

December Workshops

2010-11-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

DECEMBER 2010
Blackwater Community Computer Center
Workshop Schedule, Instructor, & Training Topic --

Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger - Introduction to Local Websites

Monday, December 6, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor - Work from Home Online

Thursday, December 9, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger - Introduction to Email

Monday, December 13, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor - Learn to Type and Print

NO DECEMBER CLASSES IN BLACKWATER AFTER DECEMBER 13TH.
HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!! CLASSES WILL RESUME IN JANUARY.

New Banner Up in Blackwater

2010-11-15T17:40:00.000-08:00

more training details

2010-10-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

BLACKWATER COMMUNITY COMPUTER CENTER

CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2010
THURSDAY EVENINGS WITH EMILY

Instructor – Emily Persinger - A Thomas Walker High School graduate, Emily now attends Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN. She is pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in history. Emily explains, “I use the computer everyday for school work as well as my social life. I’ve used my computer skills working in an office environment for the past five years, in addition to my studies. I look forward to working with Blackwater citizens to help them learn the ins and outs of computers and the internet.”

Introduction to Facebook
This workshop helps participants to join and enjoy the world of Facebook, a fun way to stay in touch with friends and family.
Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM

Online Goal Setting Tips
This workshop introduces free articles and videos on the Internet to help you write down your dreams and achieve them.
Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM

Online Shopping
Tips for online shopping including how to buy, where to buy from, and when not to.
Thursday, November 18, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM

Introduction to Local Websites
This fun and easy workshop is thoroughly enjoyable.
Surf through some Lee County community and business websites.
Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM

Introduction to Email
This workshop is for people who have never even touched a computer.
Come get your free new email address!
Thursday, December 9, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM

Classes funded by USDA for the LENOWISCO Connect Blackwater project.

For more info, call Joan Minor at 445-4600.

November Workshops

2010-10-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

NOVEMBER 2010 – Blackwater Computer Center
SCHEDULE - Instructors & Training Topics

Monday, November 1, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor Learn to Type and Print

Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger Introduction to Facebook

Monday, November 8, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor Learn to Surf the Web

Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger Online Goal Setting Tips

Monday, November 15, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor Introduction to Excel

Thursday, November 18, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Emily Persinger Online Shopping

Monday, November 22, 2010 – NO CLASS – HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEK!!
Thursday, November 25, 2010 - NO CLASS – HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEK!!

Monday, November 29, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor Sell Your Crafts Online

Vardy reunion - October 2, 2010

2010-09-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

Looks like the annual Vardy Reunion event is THIS weekend! My Grandma loved the year she was able to attend the old Vardy school. Once upon a time, before I moved to Lee County, me and my child and my Dad and my Grandma (yes, that's 4 generations) all made the trip to Vardy together for this Vardy Reunion event. It's a wonderful memory.

Critters of Blackwater

2010-09-27T21:12:00.000-07:00

The cattle and horses look content. The turtle was in the road. I got out to take his photo and then moved him out of the road.

Colors of Blackwater

2010-09-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

It's almost October, but there's still lots of pretty flowers blooming along the Blackwater roadsides...

October workshops

2010-09-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER 2010 - Blackwater Community Computer Center
Training Workshops Schedule

Monday, October 4, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell
Digital Photography #1

Thursday, October 7, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers
Introduction to the Internet

Monday, October 11, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell
Digital Photography #2

Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers
Introduction to Word

Monday, October 18, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell
Digital Photography #3

Thursday, October 21, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers
Introduction to Excel

Monday, October 25, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Harold Jerrell
Digital Photography # 4

Thursday, October 28, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Chelsey Rivers
Introduction to Facebook

Blackwater WATER PROJECT

2010-09-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Blackwater residents are moving right along in gathering easements for the proposed public water line. A community meeting is scheduled for Friday, September 17, 2010 at 6:30PM at the Blackwater Fire Hall. Katie Osborne reports, "We have to have 105 easements signed, and we've got 58 signed so far. The sooner we get it done, the sooner we have water." For more information contact Katie Osborne at 346-3026.

October 16th - Fire Hall Fundraiser

2010-09-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

On October 16, 2010 from about 11AM to 5 or 6PM, the Blackwater Fire Department will be hosting a fundraiser event at the fire hall. Festivities will include food and drinks, hay rides, horse and buggy rides, and gospel singing in the evening. Come and join the fun!!

September workshops

2010-08-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 2010 - Blackwater Workshops Schedule

Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Introduction to Computers

Monday, September 6, 2010 – NO CLASS

Thursday, September 9, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Introduction to the Internet

Monday, September 13, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Introduction to Word

Thursday, September 16, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Blogging Basics

Monday, September 20, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Introduction to Excel

Thursday, September 23, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Introduction to Facebook

Monday, September 27, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Work from Home Online

Thursday, September 30, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Introduction to Local Websites

E-Commerce: Mondays at 11AM

2010-08-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

Computer and Internet training at the new Blackwater Community Computer Center during August include workshops on digital photography and e-commerce. E-commerce workshops will be offered on Mondays at 11:00AM. On Monday, August 16, 2010 at 11:00AM presenter Mikki Barker will provide an introductory workshop on e-commerce. E-commerce enables people to earn more money by using the Internet to promote or deliver their goods or services.
Mikki Barker will present an “E-Commerce 101” Internet training workshop on Monday, August 16, 2010 at 11:00AM. The workshop is the first in a series of three e-commerce training sessions to be presented by Mikki Barker in August at the Blackwater Community Computer Center. On Monday, August 23, 2010 at 11:00AM, Barker will present a workshop titled “Why Do I Need a Website?” The final workshop in the three-part e-commerce training series will be held on Monday, August 30, 2010 at 11:00AM, when Barker will present “Internet Marketing.” The workshops are designed to help those who may be considering using the Internet to help promote, launch, or improve their small business products, services, or operations. Barker has served as a southwest Virginia representative for Virginia Electronic Commerce Technology Center (VECTEC) where she managed the delivery of e-commerce technologies, training, and services to small and medium-sized businesses. In addition, her many years of business experience include web development, advertising, marketing and graphic design.
The workshops are free and open to the public. No registration is required. Seating is limited to 10 computer stations. The workshops have been designed to assist beginners with limited computer experience. The Blackwater Community Computer Center offers free access to high speed broadband Internet service in its 10-station computer center six days a week.
The Blackwater Community Computer Center is open on Mondays Noon – 6:00PM, Tuesdays 2:00PM – 6:00PM, Wednesdays 1:00PM – 6:00PM, Thursdays 2:00PM – 7:00PM, Fridays 10:00AM – 6:00 PM, and Saturdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The funding for the computer center and the workshops has been provided by a grant to LENOWISCO from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Service - Community Connect grant program. For additional information about the upcoming workshops, contact Joan Minor at 445-4600.

Digital Photography - Thursdays 7PM

2010-08-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

Photos used in this post are copyright by Harold Jerrell.

Free computer and Internet workshops at the new Blackwater Community Computer Center this month include training on digital photography and e-commerce. Digital photography workshops are held on Thursdays at 7:00PM. E-commerce workshops are held on Mondays at 11:00AM. On Thursday, August 19, 2010 at 7:00PM presenter Harold Jerrell will provide a workshop about digital photography titled “How to Take Images and Create Special Effects.” Harold Jerrell will present an additional digital photography workshop, titled “Turn Your Still Photos into a Movie with Music,” on Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 7:00PM.

Each of the workshops are one-hour long. Instructor Harold Jerrell explains, “Have you recently purchased a digital camera? Are you confused with all the camera settings and do you just place the camera in AUTO mode and take pictures? If you would like to become more creative and learn how to use the camera’s settings to make better photographs then you are invited to participate in free digital photography workshops on Thursdays at 7:00PM at the Blackwater Community Computer Center beside the Blackwater Post Office. Subjects to be discussed will include working your images in the computer, removing unwanted objects such as dust spots or electrical lines, enhancing colors, cropping, sending photographs through e-mail, and finally how to create a DVD slideshow with music that can be watched on TV.”

Harold Jerrell’s photographs have appeared in numerous publications, including Blue Ridge Country magazine and the cover of “Virginia Wildlife” magazine. His photographs are also used on several websites, including http://www.rosehillvirginia.org/ and the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park website. With the theme, “Enjoying Nature through the Eye of the Camera,” Jerrell’s photographs have been exhibited at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, Virginia. Recently retired, Jerrell served as the Lee County Agricultural Extension Agent for Virginia Cooperative Extension for many years. His photographs are primarily outdoor nature scenes.

Vardy every 3rd Saturday - 10AM

2010-08-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Vardy Community Historical Society meets here at the museum (on Vardy-Blackwater Road) every 3rd Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come! Many local residents work together through this wonderful non-profit organization to effectively preserve and promote the Vardy-Blackwater community's intriguing history. The grounds now include the Mahala Mullins cabin. For more information about the Vardy Community Historical Society, contact W.C. "Claude" Collins, P.O. Box 112, Sneedville TN 37869, telephone (423) 733-2305. Claude is in the picture in this post. He is a decendent of Vardemon Collins. In addition to serving as Treasurer for the Vardy Community Historical Society, he also serves as a Board Member of the Melungeon Heritage Association. Both organizations have websites. Go to www.vardyhistoricalsociety.org and www.melungeon.org. I was tickled to see Mr. "Claude" Collins among the huge crowd at the Grand Opening event for the Blackwater Community Computer Center.

Annual Blackwater Reunion

2010-08-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

I got a call today from Charles A. Cox. I sure enjoyed talking with him. He is one of the organizers behind the annual Blackwater High School reunion. This photo was taken in 2008. The church across the street purchased the building and has completed significant repairs and improvements. When I took this picture, I could easily see that someone had put all new windows in the building, and that the building and grounds were well maintained. I knew somebody was taking care of that building, but I didn't know who, until Mr. Cox called today. It's the church across the street, and they host the reunions inside the old high school each year. Mr. Cox maintains the mailing list for the annual reunions. Anybody interested in getting on the mailing list to be notified of next year's Blackwater High School reunion is encouraged to contact Mr. Cox at: Charles A. Cox, Rt. 1 Box 1847, Dryden VA 24243. His telephone number is (276) 546-1390.

Blackwater Water Project

2010-08-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

LENOWISCO's Facebook page now includes a discussion on the Blackwater Water Project. I have copied the discussion below:

Jeremiah: I was wondering what the status of the Blackwater Water Project in Lee County is. Has the funding been secured? Are there any potential roadblocks that could stop this project from being completed? Thanks

Glen: The plans and specs are still awaiting approval from the Health Department. The attorney just finished the paperwork on a substantial number of easements that now must be executed by individual land owners. A community meeting needs to be planned soon to bring everyone up to date. Biggest thing holding up the project now are the easements. They can be difficult to acquire sometimes. A big community meeting will help get the ball rolling.

Computer Center Operating Hours

2010-08-06T22:19:00.000-07:00

Blackwater residents eagerly started using the computers immediately after the Grand Opening event. The Blackwater Community Computer Center is open noon-6pm on Mondays, 2pm-6pm on Tuesdays, 1pm-6pm on Wednesdays, 2pm-7pm on Thursdays, 10am-6pm on Fridays, and 10am-6pm on Saturdays. Computer and Internet training workshops are held at the Blackwater Community Computer Center on Mondays at 11AM and Thursdays at 7PM.

more Grand Opening event photos

2010-08-06T21:58:00.001-07:00

Folks listen to U.S. Congressman Boucher's remarks

Lee County Administrator Dane Poe (left)

Paul Elswick (left) of Sunset Digital Communications and Harold Jerrell (right), event photographer and Digital Photography trainer

lots of people

U.S. Congressman Rick Boucher and Jerry Harris, Member of of Lee County Board of Supervisors

Event Speakers

2010-08-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

U.S. Congressman Rick Boucher

Jerry Harris, Member of the Lee County Board of Supervisors

Travis Jackson (center), Area Manager,

Rural Development, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Skip Skinner, Executive Director, LENOWISCO Planning District Commission

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

2010-08-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

U.S. Congressman Boucher's remarks

2010-08-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

Launch of Blackwater Broadband Services

August 5, 2010

Blackwater, Virginia

I am pleased to return to Lee County today to mark another major success in our effort to expand high-speed Internet services throughout Southwest Virginia.
Today, we formally launch the Blackwater community’s new broadband service, a project which will make available affordable, high-speed Internet services to 90 residents and businesses. Additionally, a new public Internet access site connected to the new broadband network has been established here at the Blackwater Post Office.
More than fifteen years ago, I encouraged local governments throughout the Ninth District to find a means of deploying broadband networks so that affordable high-speed Internet access would be available to businesses and residents throughout our region. My goal in making this recommendation was to set our region apart in comparison to other rural areas of the nation, to make us more attractive than the typical rural region to industries looking to expand their operations into new locations, and to create technology-based jobs for Southwest Virginians.
Today, I am pleased to note that many of the communities in our region, and in Lee County in particular, are making great strides in the deployment of broadband networks. In January, we launched high-speed Internet services in the community of St. Charles in Lee County, last year we launched services in Ewing, and two years ago, we launched services in Rose Hill. The new broadband services that begin today in Blackwater will mark another major step forward in our efforts to ensure high speed Internet access is available to Lee County residents.
The broadband services now available in Blackwater have been established with the assistance of a grant of $759,600 provided at my urging by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through its Rural Utilities Service Community Connect broadband grant program. For the last several years, I have encouraged communities throughout our region to seek federal funds from this program, and I am pleased to report that we have secured a total of more than $2 million for the broadband services in Rose Hill, Ewing, St. Charles, and now Blackwater.
With assistance of the federal grant of $759,600 for the Blackwater community, 90 residents and businesses now have access to high-speed Internet services. In addition, the Blackwater Community Computer Center, which opens today, has been established to provide free high speed Internet access to residents at convenient times.
The Blackwater Community Computer Center includes 10 new computer workstations outfitted with the latest computer equipment. The Center provides high-speed Internet services to residents without charge six days a week. Additionally, the new Center provides free computer and Internet training workshops for those with limited computer experience on Monday mornings at 11:00 AM and on Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM.
With the benefit of the federal grant, LENOWISCO has deployed more than 18 miles of fiber optic cable from its Internet backbone over the “last mile” to the homes and businesses in Blackwater. The services just recently became available, and already sixteen homes and businesses have connected to the network.
In addition, high speed Internet services have been provided at no cost for the next two years to the Blackwater Volunteer Fire Department, and a community website for Blackwater has been established. You can visit the new community site at http://www.blackwaterva.org/.
Just as first canals, then railroads and then highways were the major arteries of commerce in earlier eras, in the 21st Century, access to broadband will be a defining feature of economic success for rural communities. Step by positive step our expanding broadband infrastructure is assuring that Southwest Virginia’s communities will be at the center of economic opportunity.
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a number of individuals without whom the success we celebrate today would not have been possible.
I want to thank Skip Skinner, Executive Director of LENOWISCO, and his excellent staff for their outstanding efforts to expand the region’s infrastructure and to maintain the region’s broadband networks.
I would also like to thank Paul Elswick, with Sunset Digital Communications, for his work to bring Internet services to the region.
Richard Jenkins, the Regional Field Representative for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service, deserves our recognition today for his efforts to secure the federal grant funds necessary for the project.
I would like to thank the Virginia Tobacco Commission for providing matching funds in the amount of $125,000 to assist with the project. Delegate Terry Kilgore is the Chairman of the Commission, and I would like to thank him for his leadership and foresight in supporting our region’s broadband infrastructure. I also want to thank Senator Wampler, who represents this area in the State Senate, for joining us today and for his efforts to promote broadband expansion throughout our region.
I also want to thank Kenny Osborne, Chief of the Blackwater Fire Department, for joining us today and offer him congratulations on the new broadband services. Chris Begley, another property owner in the Blackwater community is joining us today, and I would also like to thank him for his efforts.
Finally, I would like to recognize Laura Lee, my Deputy Chief of Staff, for the work she has performed for this project. I place a high priority in my office in obtaining successes much like the one we celebrate today, and Laura’s work is vital to our efforts to deploy new broadband technology throughout Southwest Virginia.
The broadband services now available in Blackwater are an example of what can be achieved when citizens and government officials at the local, state and federal levels work together and cooperate in aid of a common purpose. For that cooperation and successful work in providing high speed Internet service for the Blackwater community, I want to commend all here and offer special congratulations to the residents who are receiving this service.

Wilderness Road Dulcimer Players

2010-08-06T21:12:00.000-07:00

Members of the Wilderness Road Dulcimer Club provided entertainment as the crowd awaited the arrival of U.S. Congressman Rick Boucher.

Grand Opening Day

2010-08-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

cars were lined up all the way down the road...

Great Turn-Out!!

2010-08-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

There was an EXCELLENT turn-out for the Grand Opening event at the new Blackwater Community Computer Center on Thursday... standing room only!

computer center photos

2010-07-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

The computer center renovations are completed. Now we just need a big sign to let folks know what's available inside the center. Looking forward to the Grand Opening event on August 5th.

August Workshops Schedule

2010-07-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

August Workshops Schedule

BLACKWATER COMPUTER CENTER
COMPUTER AND INTERNET TRAINING WORKSHOPS

SCHEDULE FOR AUGUST 2010

Monday, August 9, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Joan Minor - Introduction to the Internet

Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Harold Jerrell - Digital Photography #1

Monday, August 16, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Mikki Barker - E-Commerce # 1

Thursday, August 19, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Harold Jerrell - Digital Photography #2

Monday, August 23, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Mikki Barker - E-Commerce # 2

Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Harold Jerrell - Digital Photography #3

Monday, August 30, 2010 at 11:00AM – noon
Mikki Barker - E-Commerce # 3

Grand Opening on August 5th

2010-07-09T09:45:00.001-07:00

The Grand Opening Event for the Blackwater Community Computer Center will be held on Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 11:30AM.

The Blackwater Community Computer Center is located in the heart of Blackwater on Highway 70 in the Blackwater Post Office Building. This photo was taken during the building renovations. Come see the new look and visit the new computer center!

The Blackwater Community Computer Center will offer free computer and broadband Internet access and training.

Future Blackwater Computer Center site

2010-07-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

The Connect Blackwater project will offer free computer and Internet access at the new Blackwater Community Computer Center. the computer center will be located in the same building as the Blackwater Post Office. Building renovations are underway currently to prepare the location for the new Blackwater Community Computer Center. Here's a recent short video of the building during renovations.

festivities at Spring Heritage Day

2010-06-18T13:25:00.000-07:00

Vardy Community Historical Society's mission is

"Preserving the Past for the Future." Spring Heritage Day festivities included:

old tractor show ~ small engines ~ wood carving ~ soap making ~ Blackwater Iron blacksmiths ~ chair and basket weaving ~ corn meal making ~ apple butter stir-off ~ cast iron soup beans ~ walking canes making~ quilting ~ broom making ~ making handmade dolls ~ bluegrass/gospel singing

Spring Heritage Day

2010-06-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

Spring Heritage Day was held on Saturday, June 5, 2010 on Vardy-Blackwater Road by the Vardy Community Historical Society. This 29 second video was taken upon my arrival at the event.

Welcome to Blackwater, Virginia

2009-10-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

Looking down over the Blackwater valley from up on State Route 70 (coming in from Jonesville). Photo taken last week.