Day 1 Lynchburg to Galt's Mill

by Tom and Regg Bowman

The Official Batteau Festival web page

Batteaus are 18th century river boats, designed to operate in the shallow waters of the James River. They took loads of goods, like tobacco packed in barrels called hogsheads, to the fast growing city of Richmond, from the agricultural hinterlands. Most batteaus were then broken up and sold for the lumber. Some were poled upriver with manufactured goods. The JRBF celebrates the batteau era, which ended when the railroad came in, with a 120 mile tribute, to the bygone heroes of the river. While most of the batteau crews wear period attire, they are accompanied by kayaks, canoes and some paddleboards to provide support during those long river miles. I decided to try doing it with my Seaeagle NeedleNose 14 paddleboard and a full load of camping gear, so I would be as self-sufficient as possible. The organizers arranged for all the necessities at the take outs every night, so a shuttle support was not necessary. I thought taking pictures with my GoPro helmet camera, a very much appreciated Christmas gift from my son Joshua, and his bride, Ashleigh, would contribute to the endeavor.

The day was very exciting as seemingly everyone with a paddle and some beer joined in celebrating the departure of the Batteau Festival. Twenty batteaux left Percival Island in downtown Lynchburg. The non historic water craft depart from Amherst County's Riveredge boat ramp. Most participants were partying hardy along the banks of the James River. There were some swift water, including Joshua Falls to negotiate along the paddle to Galt's Mill/Stapleton. The party carried on at the campground until the early hours of the morning. Some great sounding singers, sang the ancient tunes of the boatmen.