Virginia Canals & Navigations Society Inc.

As of the spring of 2000, the James River Batteau Festival and the VCNS are engaged in an effort to merge the two organizations. It is the opinion of both boards of directors that the organizations have similar goals and objectives and that they would be more effectively realized by joining forces. As of February 2000, the members of the VCNS are being polled to determine their feelings on the subject. It is likely that the merger will be completed prior to the 2000 James River Batteau Festival in June.

The annual James River Batteau Festival will continue with no changes anticipated. It is possible that several “mini-festivals” will be organized on various other rivers throughout Virginia.

The Virginia Canals and Navigation Society announces the publication of a new book “River Boat Echoes, Batteaux in Virginia”. Perfect bound, 84 pages, 35 illustrations, with a full color cover of Jon Roark’s picture of a laden batteau on the river. This book is a compilation of articles about Virginia Batteaux, edited and compiled by Minnie Lee McGehee. Chapters include articles about Dugout Canoes to Batteaux, Memories of Old Batteaux, Early Batteaux Canals, Variations in Batteaux, and Batteaumen and their Cargos. All proceeds from sales will be used by the Virginia Canals and Navigation Society for preservation, restoration, and educational projects. Only $12.00 each. Shippin g and handling $1.50 per book. To order send your return name and address and a check made payable to:

Virginia Canals and Navigation Society
c/o Minnie Lee McGehee
P.O. Box 132
Palmyra, Virginia 22963

To join the Virginia Canals and Navigation Society send $15.00 to:

6826 Rosement Drive
McLean, VA 22101
Attn: Lynn Howlett, Membership Chairman

If you wish to send an e-mail regarding batteau information, please notify Ralph Smith.