Using an herbicide tank carried by a UTV, Justin Tapia sprays at the edge of the Kegley Tract clearing.
Using an herbicide tank carried by a UTV, Justin Tapia sprays at the edge of the Kegley Tract clearing.
Inn at Foster Falls reopens under new management
The Inn at Foster Falls is reopened under new management.
Foster Falls
A room at the Inn at Foster Falls.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is excited to announce that the historic Inn at Foster Falls, located within New River Trail State Park, is accepting reservations once again. The inn will be operated by the Inn at Foster Falls LLC, a subsidiary of Samson Global Solutions LLC. Samson Global Solutions LLC was selected as the concessionaire following a competitive bidding process.
“The Inn at Foster Falls is more than just a beautiful place to stay, it’s a piece of this community’s history,” said New River Trail State Park Manager Sam Sweeney. “We’re thrilled to see visitors enjoying the property again and experiencing the unique character it brings to the park. Partnering with Inn at Foster Falls LLC allows us to provide guests with an exceptional stay while preserving the stories and craftsmanship that make this site so special.”
Just steps away from the 57-mile New River Trail and the scenic New River, the Inn at Foster Falls offers visitors a unique blend of tradition, charm and modern comfort. The restored property features 10 guest rooms and a picturesque two-story Victorian porch overlooking the grounds. With its natural and historic setting, the inn serves as an ideal venue for weddings, reunions, small meetings and a variety of special gatherings.
The inn’s story dates back to 1888, when the Foster Falls Mining and Manufacturing Company opened the original Foster Falls Hotel. Over the next several decades, the structure played a central role in the community, serving not only as a hotel but also as a post office, commissary, meeting hall and boarding house.
In 1919, the hotel was sold and converted into an industrial school for women. Later, it served as a children’s home until 1962, when the institution relocated to Wytheville.
Many decades later, the Commonwealth acquired the building as part of the land that would become New River Trail State Park. Renovation work began in 2013 and included a comprehensive rebuild of the interior. For the exterior, construction professionals used vintage photographs to restore the roofline and porch to their historical appearance.
After multiple phases of restoration, the Inn at Foster Falls reopened to the public in the spring of 2023.
Under Inn at Foster Falls LLC’s management, the inn offers modern amenities and a welcoming, reliable guest experience.
“Inn at Foster Falls LLC is honored to work with DCR and Virginia State Parks to continue welcoming guests to this special historic property,” said Chris Knebel, founder of Samson Global Solutions LLC. “Our goal is to preserve the inn’s character while making the guest experience warm, simple and reliable. With online booking, convenient self-check-in and helpful local recommendations, we want visitors to feel prepared, welcomed and excited to enjoy their stay along the New River Trail.”
For more information about the Inn at Foster Falls or to make reservations, please visit https://innatfosterfalls.com/ or call 276-293-9540.
Downtown Wytheville honored at meeting
Wytheville Town Council on July 13 honored Downtown Wytheville officials for the group’s 2026 Great American Main Street Award.
The award, one of the most prestigious honors for downtown revitalization efforts is reserved for communities that show excellence in economic development, historic preservation and community engagement.
Downtown Wytheville was founded as a nonprofit in 2014.
In other news, Council accepted into the town’s system the water and sewer infrastructure constructed for the Fairfield Glade Subdivision. Construction on the utility extensions began in April, with approval coming in May.
Town officials also approved a request to accept a Virginia Department of Transportation grant for a $2.3 million sidewalk project along Lithia Road.
The town also scheduled a council work session for July 27 regarding the town’s proposed Comprehensive Plan.
New executive director named for Bolling Wilson Birthplace
Richard Bullins
The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Foundation is pleased to announce the addition of Richard Bullins as the museum’s new executive director, effective July 13.
He brings many years of leadership experience in the cultural and history sector to the role.
Bullins comes to the museum from the National Coal Heritage Area where he served as Marketing Director and Special Projects Manager expanding community programming, leading a major capital campaign, writing and administering state and federal grants, as well as overseeing retail buying, accounting and staffing. Bullins graduated from Concord University with a bachelor’s degree in travel and hospitality management, along with tourism education.
“After an extensive search, we are delighted to have Richard Bullins join our team as Executive Director of the Edith Bolling Wilson Museum Foundation,” said Vice Chair of the Edith Bolling Wilson Museum Board and member of the personnel committee. “Richard brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the important story of First Lady Mrs. Wilson. His experience, knowledge, and vision will bring new-found energy to the museum. He has already begun strategizing, making connections, and identifying opportunities necessary to preserve this national historic site for future generations to learn from and enjoy.”
Cool-season root vegetables, like carrots, can be left in the ground longer in cooler climates for an even sweeter flavor.
Cool-season root vegetables, like carrots, can be left in the ground longer in cooler climates for an even sweeter flavor.
