Tennesee

Well, it was only two nights but what a trip! First we had to find our way out of Huntsville. Managed that relatively painlessly. North we go. Booked into a Red Roof Inn which is like the motorway motels in the UK only with a pool that is actually warm.
Nashville that evening, took the kidlings and high expectations. We were there oooh ten minutes...broadcasting tourist on FM and medium wave. I am amazed we were not mugged immediately. Two tramps/panhandlers/beggars later and I have realised all over again why I loathe cities. We persevered however and heard several street singers. The Oprey was shut :( and the kids were getting crotchety. I voted back to the hotel and have a go the following day with daylight and energy to back us up.

The following morning however, we found a tourist leaflet advertising Mansaker Station, a little north east from Nashville and so off we went. Neither of us being able to resist a living history tour. And man it was great. The guide (Bill Maddocks - very informative and sweet too) really knew his stuff and was interested in all historical stuff, including Cordell. He was a carpenter and man of all work about the place. He was in charge of the fort area. I would call it a stockade. Wooden defenses and huts inside. There were detailed props of frontier living in the late 1700's and it was fascinating.

Off to the Cracker Barrel for lunch and I ate until I was about ready to pop. Beef stew, mashed potatoes, turnip greens, fried okra (They were V's but he didn't like them) biscuits and corn bread muffins which were fabulous. No room for pudding which was a shame as there was apple dumpling but a girl has got to know her limitations...

Back to the fort and then onto the house built eight years later than the station but far more civilised in feel obviously. And the lady there (Miss Laura) was a spinner! She used a double drive wheel and she was very good to chat to. Really made me want to get back to the spinning I had left behind ! There was a walking wheel on display in the house but neither she not I knew how to work it so we both remain in ignorance as yet.

Quiet evening in the hotel. Kids worn out from the heat and playing in the dirt just like any frontier brat. Great fun.