If you want to experience true Americana while in Virginia, head to
Gertie's on Virginia Highway 56 between Route 11 and the Blue Ridge
Parkway. It's Vesuvius' equivalent of a big city one-stop, except
there's no fuel.
Proprietor's Tammy and Boyd Collins are two of the nicest people you'll
ever meet. Come hungry or order a sandwich to-go or dine inside or
outside, weather permitting. Make sure you order the potato salad
because it's some of the best you'll ever have. If you come on
the weekend, there's a good chance they'll also have
barbecue with slaw. It's worth writing home about.
The conversation is great too. Boyd will share stories about
chasing bears (he's not kidding!) and how his ancestor, architect T. J.
Collins, designed many of the buildings in Staunton
(pronounced STAN-ton by the locals), just up the road. All the while
Tammy is behind the counter fixing lunch or dinner.
According to Boyd, there's no better place than Rockbridge County,
Virginia. He'll readily share his map so as to entice you to
spend more time and experience what he already knows. Take him up on his suggestions.
Here's just one more reason to visit. One day in 1998 a family
came through Vesuvius on their bicycle adventure across the United
States. Tammy had always wanted to get one of those books for visitors to sign. Lacking one, Gertie (who we believe to be her
mother or mother-in-law) told them just sign on the wall. Today,
the walls and ceilings are filled with signatures. Borrow a
pen and if you can find a small space, leave your mark.
Tell 'em we said "hey" the next time you pass through.
Gertie's Country Store
563 Tye River Turnpike
Vesuvius, VA 24483
(540) 377-9313 |
