Thomas Stone, Maryland

Thomas Stone was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His home near Port Tobacco is a well preserved example of Colonial homes.

Potomac Heritage National Historic Trail, Virginia

We hiked along a trail next to the Popes Creek branch of the Potomac River and found trees listed in the Junior Ranger booklet.

George Washington Birthplace, Virginia

This is the George Washington Birthplace memorial home. It isn't the real home George was born in. That home burned in 1779.

The outline of the original house foundation is visible on the lawn next to the memorial home.

Cold Harbor Battlefield, Virginia

Many soldiers on both sides died in the fighting near Richmond. To earn my badge, I had to pick one soldier and learn about him. My soldier immigrated from Ireland just 4 years before he died fighting for his new country.

Tredegar Iron Works, Virginia

Richmond saw several important battles during the Civil War. At Tredegar Iron Works, I learned what it was like for the civilians of the South during the war, and about the hospitals and prisons nearby.

Maggie L. Walker Home, Virginia

Ms. Walker was the first woman to start a bank in the U.S. She was African-American and disabled. She helped many families buy a home, and start businesses.

Appomattox Court House, Virginia

This is where the Civil War ended. We learned about the battles leading up to the surrender, and how the confederate soldiers were issued parole passes, entitling them to free food and free transportation on their way home. I got a parole pass for completing my Junior Ranger booklet, so I get free food and free transportation for the rest of this trip.