The Charming Town of Ashland: A Guide to Its History, Attractions, and Community

Nestled in the heart of Virginia, the Town of Ashland is a charming and vibrant community with a rich history and bright future. As a long-time resident, I’m excited to provide an insider’s guide to everything that makes Ashland so special.

A Brief History

The Town of Ashland was incorporated in 1858 and named after Henry Clay’s Kentucky estate Ashland. It originated as a railroad stop along the Richmond Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad, which connected Richmond to Washington D.C.

In the early 20th century, Ashland became known as a college town when Randolph-Macon College moved to Ashland in 1911. The college brought growth and cultural attractions like the James Black Museum and the Copley Science Center.

Ashland has preserved its historic downtown and neighborhoods like Strawberry Hill, Battery Park, and College Woods Many landmarks are listed on the National Register of Historic Places The train still passes through town daily, though the tracks no longer divide East and West Ashland like they once did.

Things to Do

Though Ashland is small, it packs a lot of charm and activities into its 7 square miles.

Downtown

Historic downtown Ashland along England Street and Railroad Avenue offers delightful local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Thursday Farmers Market from April to November or events like Summer Fest, the Christmas Parade, and Third Thursday concerts and art walks.

Antique lovers should visit Clay Street, lined with treasure-filled shops. For books and gifts, browse Bookmonger and Mongrel. Grab a coffee at Ashland Coffee & Tea or dinner at Restaurant Pomme.

Randolph-Macon College

The cupola-topped RMC campus has five museums that are free and open to the public: theopacity3

• Archaeological Museum
• Biology Museum
• Lora Robins Gallery of Design from Nature
• James Black Museum of Natural History
• Copley Science Center

Catch a show at the always-interesting Modlin Center for the Arts. Wander through the scenic Lakeside garden.

Parks

Ashland has several parks for recreation and relaxation. Walk or bike the 52-acre James River Trail along the river. Hanover Arts & Activities Center offers classes and summer camps.

Kids love the playground and sprayground at Carter Park. Get your skate on at Hunter Skate Park or play tennis at Duncan Park.

Sports

Cheer for the RMC Yellow Jackets in football, basketball, lacrosse, swimming, and more. Watch trainers work with thoroughbreds at the Center for Equine Health. In fall, take in Saturday polo matches at Great Meadow.

Events

Ashland loves its community events! Enjoy free summer concerts on the patio behind Town Hall on select Thursday nights. Don’t miss the 4th of July Celebration in College Woods with games, food, and fireworks.

In fall, browse arts and crafts or compete in the Disaster Master Cook Off at the Ashland Street Parties. Kids can trick or treat with downtown businesses during Thriller Parade. Cap off the holidays with the Christmas Parade.

Places to Stay

Ashland offers a few charming and convenient lodging options.

• The Henry Clay Inn has sophisticated rooms in a historic building along Railroad Avenue.
• The Iron Horse Inn provides spacious suites near downtown.
• Linden House Inn has cozy rooms in two Victorian homes.
• Holiday Inn Express is reliable chain lodging off Interstate 95.

Those wanting to rent a whole house should check out Airbnb options near downtown.

Dining Scene

One of Ashland’s claims to fame is its impressive culinary scene for a small town. Foodies will find plenty to love.

Upscale: Creative American fare at the Lemaire at the Jefferson Hotel or chef’s choice menu at L’Opossum.

Casual: Brick oven pizza at Hometowns or sandwiches at Pot Bellies. Brunch at Beau Brummell’s.

Coffee: Brews and snacks at Ashland Coffee & Tea, Ironclad Coffee Roasters, or Black Hand Coffee Co.

Bakeries: Fresh breads, pastries, and cakes at County Seat Breads or Sweet Potatoes.

Eclectic: Thai/sushi at Chaang Thai, Indian at Mirchi, Mexican at Caliente. Smoothie bowls at Everbowl.

Classic: Old-fashioned diner fare at Triangle Diner or Trackside Grill.

Shopping

Ashland rewards those who wander its streets with a trove of shops showcasing gifts, fashions, and treasures.

• Gifts & Decor: Mongrel, Nest, Farmhouse, Cross Brothers

• Clothing: Glory Days Vintage, Clausen’s, Fin & Feather

• Books: Bookmonger – new, used and rare finds

• Antiques: Clay Street shops like Aunt Possum’s, Ah-So-Zen, Memory Lane

• Markets: French Market with fresh produce, flowers and treats

Don’t forget the Thursday Farmers Market and stores carrying local goods like Kona Ice and Ashland Coffee & Tea.

Annual Events

Mark your calendar for these beloved annual events:

• **Easter Parade & Egg Hunt: **Kids meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs while adults admire creative hats and classic cars along England Street.

• Strawberry Faire: June festival with Ashland Idol contest, live music, food vendors and of course strawberries.

• Center of the Universe 10K: July 4th road race starting at Ashland Theater.

• Hanover Tomato Festival: Taste tomato dishes, enjoy music and activities in July.

• Railroad Days: Celebrate train history in October with train rides, model railroads and more. Kids can meet Thomas the Tank Engine.

• Hometown Holidays: Kick off the season with the Christmas Parade, Santa at Town Hall, caroling and cocoa.

Getting Involved

I’ve found Ashland offers abundant ways to get involved and connect with the community.

Volunteer with groups like Ashland CARES Food Pantry, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, or Boys and Girls Club. Help out downtown through DAA.

Serve on citizen advisory boards and committees to provide input on local issues.

Attend free events hosted by the library, parks and rec, museums, and theater. Experience Ashland culture.

Support local businesses, restaurants, and nonprofits. Keep dollars circulating in our community.

Follow Town of Ashland on social media to stay up to date on news and happenings. Check the events calendar at Visit Ashland.

Provide feedback to Town Council at meetings or through surveys on town priorities. Get to know leaders.

Enroll kids in summer camps and after-school programs through the parks & rec department. Meet neighbors.

Join civic groups like Rotary, Elks, Moose, or American Legion to give back.

Why I Love Ashland

As a long-time resident, I’m proud to call Ashland my home for its charm and sense of community.

I love wandering downtown to shop and eat out. Parks and trails make it easy to enjoy nature and stay active. There’s always some community event or concert happening.

Neighbors look out for one another. Seeing familiar faces out and about town feels comforting. Local groups and volunteers keep Ashland vibrant.

Ashland offers the best of small town life with historic character and modern amenities. The spirit of engagement keeps residents invested in our shared future.

From its beginnings along the railroad to today, Ashland has blossomed into a wonderful place to put down roots and watch the generations grow. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!

How has your experience living in or visiting Ashland been? Share your perspectives in the comments!