Contributing writer Bonnie Cranmer
It’s been a couple of decades but a few folks remember The Secret Garden, on Rt 311 just before getting into New Castle. It was a lovely garden center and gift shop created by two friends and all the wonderful people who visited and shopped and supported it.
Fast forward to 2023, and those friends got together again and launched the New River Vendors Village in Pembroke. The concept wasn’t new but the opportunity was fresh and timely. The former location of the Amish Furniture store on Snidow provided enough space to get started. Artists, crafters, vintage collectors and creators of unique stuff gathered in April of 2023, a collection of 26 vendors from Craig, Giles and Montgomery Counties in Virginia, plus a few West Virginia entrepreneurs.
That initial start has propelled the friends forward, with 47 vendors and counting in September. Tami Quesenberry of Newport and Bonnie Cranmer of New Castle, along with Tami’s high school best friend, Jen Mahan, local artist and retail genius Meggin Hicklin, Tami’s daughter Stacy, plus many other generous and supportive people have come together. The group developed a space for New River Valley small business creators to offer their treasures and unique products to local residents and visitors to the region. The business is expanding with pop-ups during the holidays, making it easier for local vendors to have a safe and dry retail space.
That’s just one of the businesses blossoming in the Craig County community. The Lemon & Vale Cakery, just as you get into New Castle, has extended their hours, now open Thursdays through Mondays. Their fall menu includes the flavors of the season, with several pumpkin spice and apple creations in drinks and pastries. Open for breakfast and lunch, their coffee and other drinks have brought a welcome flavor to the community.
Carper’s Bar & Grill has opened with a bang, 3 miles south of New Castle on Rt 311. The only bar and restaurant in Craig County, they boast a diverse menu and plenty of screens for sports enthusiasts. In New Castle, Bibo’s Pizzeria and Mike’s Ice House offer plenty of choices for lunch, dinner or snacks. On Main Street, the Emporium provides an old-time general store flavor and on Saturdays, the farmers market has plenty of fresh tastes to offer. Growers from Craig and Giles Counties provide eggs, meat, honey, produce and baked goods to an eager community. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, and the motto on the mural wall says it all; “Your next adventure awaits.”
Craig County has other hidden treasures as well. The Virginia Scenic Byway is spectacular this time of year, filled with stunning views and colorful vistas. Check in at the Library on the top of Main Street and pick up a map of the Barn Quilts by artist Martha Dillard, supporting the library. Walk down Main Street to the Old Hotel, see the restoration of the Clifton Store and visit the Genealogy Library. The rural feel of Craig County has plenty to offer to those souls weary of the fast pace of the world. Take a drive and experience it for yourself.
Courtesy photo
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