The Saltpeter Cave lies beyond the Natural Bridge on the pathway to Lace Falls. It forms a large hole in the canyon wall. The cave is also the work of the past's flowing water and erosion.
The contents of the cave became a valuable resource for ammunition during the War of 1812 and the Civil War 1861-65. Workmen made gunpowder from
nitrates they mined and from bird and bat droppings. There are remains of the metal rail mine cart tracks leading down into the cave which is now closed.
The meandering Cedar Creek flows under the bridge that leads to the Saltpeter Cave entrance.
The Saltpeter Cave lies beyond the Natural Bridge on the pathway to Lace Falls. It forms a large hole in the canyon wall. The cave is also the work of the past's flowing water and erosion.
The contents of the cave became a valuable resource for ammunition during the War of 1812 and the Civil War 1861-65. Workmen made gunpowder from nitrates they mined and from bird and bat droppings. There are remains of the metal rail mine cart tracks leading down into the cave which is now closed.
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11 comments:
Great pictures! This looks like a place that I would love to see someday. Your blogs are always a pleasure to see.
James
Something Sighted
Hi Erin - I was wondering if you were on vacation! Did you go inside the cave? Your pictures are so inviting - the stone and the creek look cool though I expect it was hot.
Wonderful pix ... fascinating places you go .. really ...
Beautiful. I always enjoy my vacations here;)
Looks like a beautiful place to visit. How big is the cave and did you go inside?
Have a great weekend Erin.
Oooh! These photos are gorgeous! The first reminds me of a painting. Such a beautiful place to visit, Erin. Thank you for sharing it with us.
~Lisa
what a sturdy trail with those walkways and bridges.
These photos are fantastic Erin, and what a wonderful place to visit. I enjoyed all its history too, thank you. Makes me want to get in the car and point its nose towards the Natural Bridge.
I didn't realize you were so close! We didn't make it to natural bridge this summer. But-- summer isn't over. Haver you ever attended the Rockbridge Old-time music festival?
That really is a wonderful and interesting place to visit. Your photos are great as always.
Just gorgeous!
~Lisa
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