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Celebrate Virginia’s 250th Anniversary with a Day Trip Honoring Elijah Craig

As Virginia gears up to celebrate 250 years of American history, it’s the perfect excuse to ditch the ordinary and follow in the footsteps of one of Orange County’s most unexpected trailblazers—Elijah Craig. Baptist preacher. Bourbon pioneer. Local legend. His story starts right here, in the hills and hollows of Orange County.

Whether you’re a history buff, bourbon enthusiast, or just in need of a fun adventure, this day trip is a spirited blend of heritage and exploration. You’ll stroll by historic churches, discover tales of rebellion and revival, and maybe even toast Craig’s legacy with a nod to the good stuff he’s famous for!

Uncover six stops that bring Craig’s story to life with the day trip below—no time machine required.

Stop #1: Historic Germanna

2062 Germanna Highway, Locust Grove, VA 22508

Long before Orange County became known for bourbon and bold preachers, Historic Germanna laid the groundwork that helped shape Virginia’s early religious and cultural landscape. Historic Germanna commemorates Governor Alexander Spotswood and the early story of westward expansion in Virginia, home to some of the region’s first European settlers. It became a hub for education, religion, and frontier life. While Craig arrived later, the legacy of independent thought and spiritual determination had already taken root here and set the stage for the revolution in faith that he would help lead.

Long before Orange County became known for bourbon and bold preachers, Historic Germanna laid the groundwork that helped shape Virginia’s early religious and cultural landscape. Historic Germanna commemorates Governor Alexander Spotswood and the early story of westward expansion in Virginia, home to some of the region’s first European settlers. It became a hub for education, religion, and frontier life. While Craig arrived later, the legacy of independent thought and spiritual determination had already taken root here and set the stage for the revolution in faith that he would help lead.

Stop #2: North Pamunkey Baptist Church

15109 Pamunkey Ln, Orange, VA 22960

Tucked along a quiet country road, this little church is where it all began. Officially formed in 1774 by Elijah Craig and other early Baptists, North Pamunkey Baptist Church is one of the oldest Baptist congregations in Virginia. As you walk the grounds, imagine the quiet courage it took for early worshippers to gather here during a time when religious freedom was still a radical idea.

Stop #3: James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage

129 Caroline Street, Orange, VA 22960

Next, cruise into charming downtown Orange for a stroll through the historic district. The district encompasses the community’s oldest public, religious, and commercial buildings, and is located in the heart of Orange. As you wander to the James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage, you’ll find a treasure trove of early American artifacts, including farming tools, handwritten documents, and displays celebrating Virginia’s hard-won religious freedom. It’s the perfect place to peek into the world that Craig lived in and fought hard to change.

Lunch Break

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch! Lucky for you, Orange County is filled with delicious local options, from avant-garde cuisine to country classics. It’s time to take a break, refuel, and soak up the small-town charm before heading to your next exciting stop.

Stop #4: James Madison’s Montpelier

11350 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station, VA 22957

Just a short scenic drive away lies the sprawling estate of President James Madison. Montpelier offers not only presidential vibes and postcard-worthy gardens, but also exhibits that dive into the history of religious liberty–something both Madison and Craig were fiercely passionate about. Take a tour, stroll through the forest trails, and breathe in the history all around you. With sweeping views and a deep sense of history in every corner, Montpelier is a must-see stop on your journey.

Stop #5: Blue Run Baptist Church

7435 Constitution Hwy, Somerset, VA 22972

Small, simple, and packed with history, the Blue Run Baptist Church is a tribute to Virginia’s religious expression roots. Founded in 1769 and still standing as a quiet sentinel of early Baptist resilience in Somerset today, Craig helped establish this church during his mission to spread the word. Pause here and reflect on the significance of passionate preaching when it was not a protected right.

Stop #6: Virginia Foothills Distillery (Optional)

5361 Spotswood Trail, Barboursville, VA 22923 

End your journey with a toast to the “Father of Bourbon!” Virginia Foothills Distillery keeps the bourbon spirit alive with small-batch creations full of flavor and heart. Kick back in the tasting room, sample their latest pours, and raise a glass to Craig—the preacher with a rebellious streak and a taste for something bold.

With roots that run deep and stories that still stir the soul (and maybe your cocktail), a day spent tracing Craig’s footsteps is anything but ordinary. From church pews to bourbon pours, this is a history-filled day with a twist, and we’re saving you a seat!