An odd building that sits behind the New Life Baptist Church is Reidsville. Allegedly, it is the only remnant of Charles Penn's Pennington estate. Its purpose is unknown. No windows, two doors.
Warming hut at a mill alongside Wolf Island Creek. Customers would have been able to wait in this stone structure while having their grain or corn ground. It had a fireplace inside which is about to crumble.
After those two preliminary stops we arrive at the main attraction, Tanyard Creek. Situated along the Dan River, this property includes Tanyard Creek and its unique geological formations. First, we had to check out the house above. In almost complete disrepair, we carefully made our way inside gingerly moving about.
Not knowing what this is, I had to email a photo to my brother, the family entomologist. Vespa Crabro he responded. Otherwise know as European Hornets and loaded with formic acid I am told.
We walked across a turnip field with the largest turnips I'd ever seen, interspersed with daikon. We viewed the mighty Dan for a few minutes. There was a bunch of rock in the river. We examined them to determine if they formed a Batteau structure. Not likely was our conclusion.
Up Tanyard Creek we went. At first the conglomerate rock was not that noticeable nor impressive. I didn't take any photos. Shortly, that changed and the rocks began to stand out. They resemble mortar with stones and gravel mixed in. Some stones are river worn smooth and others are not. They are of many sizes too. I understand there are different types of conglomerate rock. Pebble, cobble and boulder constitute the main types, all based on size. This seemed to be primarily cobble but other sizes were present as well. We saw a large hole in a vertical rock. It was about the size of a laundry basket and claimed to be an Indian roasting oven. Maybe not.
Our route up the creek is blocked by a jumble of fallen trees. We manage to cross with only my left foot getting in the water. We maneuver up a very steep slope and find a level spot to walk. A few pieces of petrified wood lay on the ground. It was an easy walk to the top of a waterfall where we see large conglomerate rocks speckled with pretty river stones.
After enjoying the rushing and falling water for a moment, we continue, seeing more petrified wood. Our route is hindered by uprooted trees and we are getting shredded by briars.
The rest of the walk is intermittent briars. We find another place to cross the creek and perhaps a better route for the guided hike being held here this weekend. We debate the sanity of bringing a group here with its inherent risks. I'm glad I'm not making that call.
Golden leaved Beech trees cover the sides on the gorge.
One last look at the lonely house atop the hill.
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