Richmond Inside Out

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A Brisk Walk with a Hint of History

History | 03.02.10 | by Matt Harrington

March is here, and with it comes more sunshine, a little more warmth and a big need to break free of the cabin fever we’ve all been experiencing this winter. Yesterday was one of those sunshiny, warm days that will eventually become commonplace as springtime settles in. For now, with blankets of snow still fresh in my mind, any midday temperature above 52° is enough reason for me to get out and enjoy the afternoon.

I was running errands in Midlothian, so since I was already in the neighborhood, I decided to stop at Midlothian Mines Park on Woolridge Road near Midlothian Turnpike. I’ve driven past it many times, but have never gone in. Come to find out, it’s a nice, quiet place to take a stroll. I saw many people, who I assume work in the area and were taking an afternoon lunch break, walking the trails. I also saw many residents using the park for jogging and dog walking.

For the most part, Midlothian Mines Park is your typical “trail-in-the-woods” sort of place. But the giant stone structures that jump out at you as you walk deeper into the woods tell you that you are at a place rich in Virginia history. In fact, Chesterfield coal mining got underway in 1730, making the Midlothian Mines the first commercial coal mining location in North America. (Yes, I read the informative signs along the trail).

As you walk along and pass different buildings, rusted coal cars, pump shafts and a lot of trees, you can’t help but think of the importance this area played in Richmond’s economy throughout history. It’s no wonder why Richmond and the Central Virginia region played such huge roles in the Revolutionary War and became the Capital of the Confederacy.

To be honest, I didn’t go to Midlothian Mines Park for a history lesson. I went to enjoy some fresh air on a sunny afternoon. I did that, but I also learned a little bit about Chesterfield and Richmond’s mining past. And that’s a pretty good way to spend an hour on a sunny day.

 

I took a few pictures while I was there> Flickr