The Batteau Rose of Nelson's
Historic Journey on the Rivanna River - 2009
The Batteau "Rose of Nelson" on the Rivanna River passing the former Woolen Mills Dam in Charlottesville, VA, May 9, 2009.
This is the FIRST time in modern history that a Batteau has traveled through this stretch of river.
Photo © 2009 by Holt Messerly, All rights Reserved.
HISTORIC BATTEAU JOURNEY ON THE RIVANNA RIVER
The batteau "Rose of Nelson" is the first batteau since the original batteau era in the early 1800's to run the Rivanna River above and through the site of the former Woolen Mills Dam. Captain Mike Neal, his crew and other adopted crew for this event are making history.
On Saturday, May 9th, 2009 the batteau and crew began their journey down the Rivanna at the South Rivanna Reservoir. Dressed in period clothing and carrying gear and supplies for overnight camping onboard the batteau, they rode the nice swift current and higher than normal muddy water from recent heavy rains. Saturday morning also had a canoe and kayak race on the same stretch of river. The batteau pulled over for a short time to allow the racers to pass by. As the batteau approached the Darden Towe Park in Charlottesville, the crowd gathered in anticipation of their arrival. Excitement was in the air, people shouted and ran to the river while cameras clicked rapidly. The Rose pulled over to the bank and everyone was really excited to be there! After the boat left the park, several photographers and members of The Virginia Canals & Navigations Society gathered at the site of the Woolen Mills Dam. "Here they come...." we shouted! I took many photos as they approached and the photo above IS the "Kodak Moment" I was waiting for. THIS was truly historic. ...Holt Messerly
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The movie below is from still photos of the Batteau Rose of Nelson
Arriving at Darden Towe Park. Click the Play button at the bottom.
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Darden Towe Park on the Rivanna. May 8, 2009
Other Canoes, Kayaks, and Batteau Event Photos
Click here to see Photo Gallery
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Woolen Mills Dam remains on the Rivanna. May 8, 2009
The Batteau "Rose Of Nelson" Making History.
Click here to see Photo Gallery
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The Batteau Rose of Nelson running a rapid on the Rivanna.
YouTube video by Kenny Neal___________________________________________________
Please note that the batteau was also traveling on Sunday, May 10th and we are waiting on news of their trip and expected stops along the way such as Palmyra and thier arrival at the James River and the confluence of the Rivanna at Columbia. Further reports from anyone who saw the boat and took pictures are welcomed. Please email if you would like to contribute to the accounts of this historic journey!