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Friends of Fauquier Letterboxing Trail Clues

Clue #1

Since 1957 people have cared for those that are lost or a stray
All find a place to rest for a time whether they ‘bay’ or ‘neigh’
For those with four legs, a shelter of sorts from a hard life on the road
They’ll wait for a while until a day that they’re picked for a new abode.
A special garden is sited here with names of loved ones to see
There’s Dumpy, Chance, Squeal and even someone named Perdi
There’s a bench should you want to rest and think upon friends new and old
And hidden there among the lilies lies the prize for one to behold.

Clue #2

She taught in the system for 40 years, admired by many, esteemed by her peers
She sold the land that paved the way, for students to gather on each school day
In grades K-5 classes are taught, prepared by scholars with lots of thought
The mascot’s a mustang, the horse of the west, inspiring all students to do their best
Since 1990 this school is a pillar to a grand instructor, Mrs. G. C. Miller
Four tables for eating sit outside, an Eagle Scout project in 2005
Nearby a tree decorated with lights, at the holiday it’s a definite sight
Under the tree lies a present of stone, the point of your quest now is known

Clue #3

Built to house books in ’23, a gift for the town, plus you and me
The lower level the Red Cross did rent, while above hundreds of books were lent
Expanded for children in ’65, this endeavor continued to thrive
A fire marred a painting found there, a dark stain remains just under his hair
A building of history with a rich past, its’ love of reading continues to last
Today books still can be found in ‘the Cellar’ down under the ground.
To gain entrance, go around back, now you’re on the right track
But do not enter, at least not yet, our little box you’ve not yet met
Step past machines to an old door on the right, a cream colored thing, it’s a real sight
Five panels tall, half covered by wall
Look in the pocket formed at the base, our box can be found within this space.

Clue #4

Rain or shine, I love to read
I watch plants go from bloom to seed
The Cedar Run Garden Club keeps it neat
While I enjoy cool water at my feet.
A place to rest now sits in the sun
The construction work is finally done
As you sit enjoying what’s new
Two large urns you are likely to view
Behind one in a corner of brick
If I were searching that’s the place I would pick.

Clue #5

Students once roamed the halls of this place, but a fire made them find a new space
Part of the old now seams with what’s new, an old auditorium, a dance studio too
Baseball fields and classes with clay, outdoor equipment where children can play
Shelves full of books and internet access, little pet rodents making a mess
Families know that a time filled with glee is sharing a story with ‘Missus’ Debbie
Look at this building to find a front seat, reach back behind, your search is complete.
A recent addition to this space is a garden that dresses up the place
Lots of new plants and our letterbox too, look in the left corner for something that's blue.

Clue #6

Early Settlers dreamed of being rich
They panned by tents that they did pitch
Today we hear their tales of old
And try OUR luck in search for gold!
Look about for a nest; these may be taller than your chest
From this point you might spy a place to eat a piece of pie
Behind this point you’ll see some trees; the ones you want will come in threes
Underneath the largest in the middle, is the answer to this riddle.

Clue #7

Built for a judge of the circuit court was a house of good design
Later did pass to a man who in the Civil War did shine
Swift night raids were his calling card, based on the life of ‘the Fox’
To Union soldiers, his methods were extremely unorthodox
After the war he settled down in the town of Warrenton
They revere him to this day as a most celebrated son.
A marker now telling the history is perched on the corner, you can see
A wall made of stone lies at its feet weathered and crumbly
Although the house can be viewed from here our little box lies down the street
Calhoun to be exact, the visitor center is a real treat
At the far end of the parking lot are five trees that share a trunk
Our little box lies within them; find it or you will flunk!

Clue #8

Commit a crime? Now do some time visiting this ‘old’ place
Behind the bars you may hear cars while climbing a scary staircase
Built in 1808 to house the inmate, now only memories dwell
But if walls could talk of times gone by, oh the stories they’d tell.
Usually open from 10 to 4 except for the first in the week
Within the walls you should find the treasure of which you seek
Through the front door you are greeted then to the right you will see
A room full of war memorabilia used to help keep men free
If you go straight through the courtyard, you’ll enter the part that is ‘new’
You are close to the prize now so pay attention to the next clue
Up a steep ladder, like that of a ship is the maximum security cell
Behind the door, in a cage, you’ll bid your journey a fond farewell!

Clue #9

It lies at the end of Fauquier Road, people visit by the carload
Soccer and baseball, volleyball too, places to walk, there’s plenty to do
Children play and splash in the stream, floating sticks in the water is fun it would seem
Riders on cycle’s whiz to and fro, days spent in the sun you’ll never outgrow
A visit here includes a walk round the loop, how many times, up to you
Walk just for pleasure or jog to keep fit, but be sure to look for the clue
Just as you exit the shade of the woods take a look at the first tree on the right
Across from the field where home runs are hit, if you swing with all of your might
Hidden within the crook of the tree is the box that many do seek
It waits there for you any time that you wish, each and every day of the week

Clue #10

Reported missing 7/09
Passed down for years through family ties, with trails that can take one up to clear skies
A gift from Paul Mellon in ’75, a place to keep natural, fit and alive
In spring celebrate a berry that’s red, the views in the fall rival Club Med!
Part of a trail well known to the west, feel free to visit and bring a guest
Enjoy this park for a small fee, at the gate pay dollars - three
Plan a picnic ‘fore you hit the trail, the pace is your own, quail or snail.
Start at the sign that shows the way, up on a path made of clay
Trash in a barrel and a sign for the dog means you’re on track to find a stamp log
Turn left on the trail – don’t be slack! – Keep your eyes peeled for an old wooden shack
Up on the right climb steps made of stone, the paths of this trail to many are known
Climb more steps, this time of wood, takes you across the fence, which is good!
Piedmont or North trail, which should it be, it really doesn’t matter you see
The box is located under the stair; at least it is supposed to be there.

Clue #11

Reported damaged 7/09
Once a place known as Archwood Farm, now houses students instead
The grades range from Pre-K to 12th, Peter Quinn stands at its head
Kids seek to learn ‘bout writing and math while sports share their interest too
Going to school can be fun, or not, but this place comes with a view!
Drive through the gate and take note of the landscape supreme
The grounds are well kept, owls and all, it’s a gardeners dream
Just as you drive through the gate notice the trees to the left
A tenant lives there in a house on a stick within it a nest full of weft
Located in the trees below is the subject of this little blurb
Find the box and trade the stamps but the birdhouse do not disturb!

Clue #12

Usually red and comes at the end, it follows behind all the others
Pulled on a track for miles and more, just one stop after another
It rests now to travel no more to and fro, just reminds us of where it has been
There’s history inside and stories of old about railroads and all of their kin.
Visit the kiosk, there’s all kinds of info from maps to the latest in news
You’ll find little bags to use with your dog, so we won’t get poo on our shoes
Notice the bush just to your right; it’s full and soft to the touch
The prize that you seek lies at its base, within easy reach of your clutch.

Clue #13

Built as a link between two towns, with several stops on the way
The Warrenton stop was abandoned, so the townsfolk all yelled, “Hey”
Those in the know offered a plan to put us back in the loop
Later soldiers, both blue and gray, across these tracks did troop
Gone are the tracks that once marked this path as it ran its way through downtown
Now joggers, bikers, those out for a walk enjoy it sunup to sundown.
Go for a walk on this nice trail, start by crossing the bridge
Hundreds of steps you may have to trek to find what’s ‘round the next ridge
Come to a crossroad, peer left and right before crossing the street
Continue your journey, smiling brightly at travelers you by chance should meet
At the next stop sign, you’ll come to a road with Madison as its name
Look left and right, then do continue, the prize you’re sure to claim
There on the right spy a park bench, beckoning your feet to rest
Don’t tarry long the end is in sight, you’ve almost finished the quest
For right there behind you grows a large tree casting a shadow of shade
And mirrored beside it two railings of sorts, gray and extremely well-made
One stops at the tree, then continues on to the other side
At the first post past the tree is where our little box does hide.

Clue #14

Averill’s Calvary took on the horsemen of General Fitzhugh Lee
Though greatly outnumbered, Lee’s men fought bravely all afternoon
And set the stage for Brandy Station, the Calvary battle in June
Gone are those horsemen, done is their quest
Today we would welcome all as our guest.
This place is attractive, a lovely retreat
To spend some time here would be really sweet
Enjoy a fine dinner or go for a ride
There are many places a little box can hide
So where to look, well here’s a clue
What is wet and inviting and looks sparkling blue?
You’d love to jump in on a very hot day
But from your task, do not stray
This place has its own little house with a sink and cabinets too
Hidden inside the stereo cart is the item you do pursue.

Clue #15

Gray stones mark a pit of bones, ghosts may offer up some groans
Some reside since years gone by, some new space do occupy
All were once alive and well, all have stories they can tell
Don’t be scared just have a look and add this place to your logbook.
See some stones buffed to a gloss; keep your eye pealed for the Sheppard cross
Lizzie and Thomas Bruce are near, in 1933 they both came here
Nearby are two markers old, white stone, smooth and cold
So old dates can’t be read, but shade from a tree bathes their head
Amanda Lunceford is the name, the box lies near for you to claim.

Clue #16

Visiting doctors is never much fun, when we don’t feel well, to them we run
Sometimes an overnight stay is in store for those that are weak or have a bad sore
Drive up the hill and get wheeled inside, doctors and nurses seem to reside
Time spent in here is a matter of fate; open all hours, early and late
Hospital food may take a bad rap, but at the Bistro you’ll want to eat every scrap
Outside as you enter spy five boxes of news, under one is our prize, it’s for you to choose.

Clue #17

Looking for a good read, perhaps you are in dire need
Of a hidden treasure tale, look in here, you will not fail
Many books can be found, one by Professor Ben A. Round
Tells a story you’ll want to scan, once read, you’ll be his fan
Take a look at what he has in store, after our three copies, you’ll wish for more and more!

Clue #18

In an earlier time, some traveled by track, trains chugged us there and trains chugged us back
With several stops along the way, a trip into town could take all day
Little know stations dotted the map, receiving mail in sacks of burlap
One such stop was the foundation for what then was known as Bealeton Station
No longer do passengers stop in this nook, but patrons might spy it while reading a book
The box you can find, but not near the caboose, another place you will have to deduce
Locate a baker’s dozen of trees; hidden behind them, what do you see
Walk past this equipment that helps us keep cool to spy a corner where brick masons rule
Continue around the side on the walk, when the pavement ends don’t start to baulk
Just keep on walking, look our for a hedge, turn at the corner and follow the ledge.

Clue #19

Built in 1990 and named for a ‘true gentleman’,
The clue to this letterbox has barely just begun
Need additional info; I hear your shout for more,
Let’s start the search in nearby New Baltimore
Fans of eagles flock to here each brand new school day,
Some are young and some are old, bus drivers show the way
This place looks like others, the layouts much the same
So focus on where you are and continue with the game
Growing on the front lawn, four whose leaves are green
But when the air turns chilly vibrant color then is seen
Turning in the drive is a sign to limit speed
15 is the number there, it’s one that you should heed
Beside the sign one of the four waiting just for you
Search within the branches there, you know what to do

Clue #20

To reams of paper the printed word goes, with stories of cheer and tales of woes
Each week it is printed then put ‘to bed’, by morning thousands of columns are read
Once done with, it’s bound and put to the street, recycled, reused the reporters ‘slip-sheet’
So where will you find this informative friend?  Just look at the office where stories are penned
Outside of the building, right there on the walk, is a contraption used by a ‘news-hawk’
It produced metal type to put words in print, its painted bright red, not there’s a big hint
Just to the right up next to the wall, sits a green box just for papers, that’s all
Hidden behind it, wedged in between, our letterbox is easily seen.

Clue #21

Used as a base during World War II, this space was available when the army withdrew
Future development for the area was planned, with house and business sharing the land
The county inherited several fun spaces, places to put lots of smiles on faces
A gym, tennis courts, playing fields and a pool, places to picnic under trees where it’s cool
A community theater where actors perform, not far from a place that once was a dorm
Ongoing projects continually expand, to serve a community and honor the land
Across the street form the Greenwich Inn is where your letterbox search should begin
Between baseball and soccer stands a lone tree, in the crook of its branches the prize you should see.

Clue #22

Visit this farm and you will spy a rather large animal that has a soft eye
She is the reason for milk in the morning but watch where you step, she poops without warning
Cheese and ice cream are part of her wares, treats that all would like to make theirs
She lives in a place where Leonard’s have farmed since 1954; they started out, just two of them, but now there are many more
Tours and hayrides are some of the fun things; they like to show people around.  There are things to see and plenty to do, even a small playground
Crops are grown ‘creatively’, aMAZing to the eye, a large ear of corn is hard to miss, it reaches up to the sky
Follow the drive till you have to stop, looking around find the gift shop
Walk to the steps, but don’t ascend yet, you want to find where the box is set
At the corner of the building under the decking is a place that should warrant some very close checking.

Clue #23

A recent addition to our town, this place welcomes all to “Come on Down”
Enjoy a workout to help one stay slim, laps in the pool or maybe free swim
Several large fields adorn the space, for playing soccer this is the place
Skateboarders are welcome here too; a place like this was long overdue
Booking a party, now that would be fun, there’s something here for everyone
An imposing structure of steel and glass, diagonal beams support the mass
Downspouts are attached for when it might rain; they give a place for water to drain
On the right side twelve reach toward the sun, our box hides in the last one.

Clue #24

Named for the man who donated the funds, a natural space where water runs
It now fills a lake for all to enjoy, families with girls or maybe a boy
Might walk down the dock with tackle in hand, hoping the ‘big one’ to land
There’s hiking and picnics, playgrounds for fun, come out and enjoy some time in the sun!
Live in the county, entrance is free; otherwise there may be a small fee
Park in the lot and take a stroll, the information kiosk is your goal
From there find the first cedar tree on the right, believe it or not the goal is in sight
Straight up the hill, a large holly tree, within its branches, the box you should see.

Clue #25

She wanted a better quality of life for neighbors in her town
She joined the Warrenton Advisory group to give them the lowdown
She appealed to the Town Council for upgrades on the street
Street lights, fire hydrants, better mail service are goals that she did meet
Nominated for the school board, she was the first to lead the way
The first black woman, she paved a way for leaders of today
Her name adorns a park where her efforts were rewarded
‘One of the town’s largest green spaces’, it has been recorded
Located in the town of Warrenton, just down from the Main Street
A place to meet, play and eat, this park is a treat
A Memorial Rock marks the entrance at the top of the hill,
It’s a long way down from here; the view may make you ill
As you take in the site, look to the left to see a large group of trees
Some remind us of Christmas, these, usually decorated to please
Located under tree number three is the box you do seek
But unlike at the holiday season, here, you’re encouraged to peek.

Clue #26

Where we come from should interest all, every color, big or small
Discovering who’s in our family tree is a job for you and me
But where to look, how to start, a visit here would be smart
A place that’s rich in history, the American experience is what you’ll see
The Karen’s here can help you find your family path, they don’t mind
Their roots go back a century (x3), when Virginia was new and people weren’t free
Many ancestors began a slave the road to freedom they helped pave
Finding family can make your day, a place to start, the AAHA.
Nearby stands a shaded cage, old with rust who knows it’s’ age
Marking the way are columns of brick a sign nearby to notice real quick
In the tall grass under the sign our box you’ll find hidden in vine

Clue #27

An authority on the history of the county called Fauquier
Links to a past we all share can be found in here
A museum of sorts in a library that bears his name
Without him around to share the tales, history just isn’t the same
Many exist to search olden times to learn of relatives dear
Information, insight and stories of old to bring ancestors near
If you want to learn this place, here you could learn a lot
He donated materials for all to use, thank you Mr. Gott
A ramp helps to make the building easy for all to use our box is located far to the right,
look there if you choose.

Clue #28

This school began as a place for one color, but in 1969 added another
Named for a professor from Kentucky, for some middle scholars, it’s the place to be
Colors displayed sport orange and black; Students attend with sacks on the back
Students, teachers, faculty agree, a life full of learning is always the key
In front of the school there are trees three, big, bigger, biggest, look and you’ll see
Covered in ivy and far to the right, in the crook of the branches, our box you
should sight.

Clue #29

A place of learning since 1905, in an area that continues to thrive
Serving the children of farmers nearby, learning three ‘R’s and answering “why?”
Burned to the ground in ’24, still learning continued to soar
A new building opened in ’25, education could not be deprived
In 1956 the school changed its name, sighting the areas from which it came
Serving two districts, Lee and Cedar Run, soon was a school serving everyone
In front of the school a circular drive a drop off for students when they arrive
Vertical lines are built into brick counting six to the left should do the trick
There stands a tree looking quite full, but walk back behind you’ll find it null
Within its trunk our box you should spy, hopefully there, clean, safe and dry

Clue #30

The John Barton Payne High School opened in 1932
Areas added in 1980 made the school seem new
When a nearby high school was built, this school changed its name
After years of teenagers, elementary students made the place seem tame
Another name change was in store for the structure here
Miss Margaret M. P. is her name, principal most dear
This place has a rich history, full of service and change
Teachers, students, parents too enjoy a this rich exchange
When finding this location look for the circle drive
It’s at the back, where students might arrive
Spy a ‘GYM’ sign, playground, picnic tables and a barn of red
Four bushes line the circle drive, #1 is at the head

Clue #31

Built at the turn of the century, the one beginning with two
To replace a building showing some age, we needed something more new
So Central retired, took on a new task; and this place constructed nearby
On donated land, (thank you Arrington’s), that many would occupy
A place where one learns to read and to write, the sum of two added to four
Parents, teachers and students all watch and see their brainpower soar
Inspired by things reaching high much like the long necked giraffe
A fun place to learn and mingle with friends even members on staff
Named for a man of the cloth who once worked in a Methodist church
Add this location to the ones in your log to complete your letterbox search
Located in front of the school are places to sit and reflect
Build out of stone, eleven in all, something you might not expect
Out to one side a monument of sorts dedicated to keeping the peace
A nearby object of red would help a fire to cease
Close by stands a tree full of green branches all year
Search within these branches of green, our letterbox is in here

Clue #32

Opened as a High School in 1936, students studied lots of things, including the classics
1963 saw the last graduating class, decades of students come and gone, relieved to finally pass
But this school was not done, changes were in store, students yet to attend numbered by the score
It became a Junior High serving grades 7, 8 and 9; construction in the ‘80s added to the grand design
Students still attend here although grades are a different mix; grade 9 is at the high school, but they
added 6!
A large front lawn adorns this creative place creating for everyone a pleasant outdoor space
To enter you may have to negotiate a stair but don’t worry you are close, in fact you’re almost there
You’ll notice several tables for meeting in fresh air under a huge tree that will offer shade from any glare
Edging this nice place is a wall made out of stone and next to it another large shade tree has grown
In fact it has embraced the wall and shares part of its trunk, our letterbox call this place home, here it
hangs its bunk

Clue #33

Opened in August of 2004, about five hundred students will walk through the door
And enter a world of blues and white, their mascot is fearsome, but doesn’t bite
Named for a village of 1831, a new plow developed then helped get the job done
Today this place offers to lots, a location of learning, and a place to share thoughts
Visit the blog writ by ‘the man’, get to know him, you may be a fan
Students who go here all know where it’s at…and can’t help but shout, “Go Wildcat”
Teams are supported by students and staff, athlete’s plays on the schools behalf
The softball field is off to the right, here girls swing with all their might
Located on this side of the school is a shed where one might store a tool
Blowers, mowers tools to tend grass without thinking this place you might pass
But give it a look, think where would it hide, look down on the ground by the
door on the left side