Behold, the Meadowlark!
Our new timber frame structure, The Meadowlark, is up and singing. This 16-by-24-foot frame of good oak sprung to life Oct. 14 after an intense community build. Once outfitted with roof and deck, this covered stage and outdoor classroom will ensure more Boxerwood happenings whatever the weather. That’s great news for us all.
Dedicated to two of Boxerwood’s founders, Karen Bailey (KB) and Hunter Mohring, the Meadowlark from inception has already brought out the best in us. Essential support came from a groundbreaking donation from Joanna and David Samson, whose gift rose to the moment as part of our capital campaign. We’re deeply grateful for the Samsons’ belief in this project and in the people it honors. We’re also so grateful for the 80+ timber framers who built this wonder, and for the many local folks who helped feed them.
The five-day build itself was a joyful coming-together. The framers hailed from near and far to cut, shape, and raise the oak, cherry, and black walnut timbers. Many more volunteers – both adults and kids – cooked, served, cleaned up, and cheered.
The whole project was a beautiful expression of community in action and Boxerwood is humbled and honored to be the recipient of such kindness, talent, and zest. Special thank you to everyone who worked to bring the Meadowlark to life, and especially:
Grigg and Cindy Mullen, who hosted the frame cutting at their Rockbridge home
Timber frame instructors and volunteers, including VMI cadets
Blue Ridge Lumber Co., who donated the timbers
Matt Humphries of Welsh Construction, who donated the foundation piers
Spencer Home Center, who contributed to the metal roofing
George Huger of Lexington Catering Company and John Stallard of CHEF’s Catering
Boxerwood’s board and volunteers
Our friends from many organizations who helped cook, serve, and welcome the hungry crew: Rockbridge Area Master Gardeners Association (RAMGA), Project Horizon, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Maury River Friends Meeting (Quakers), and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
What’s next? In the coming weeks, The Meadowlark will get its metal roof and hardwood deck, and then it will be ready to spread its wings. In the months ahead, we look forward to all kinds of activities: school and camp programs protected from rain and heat; family gatherings; impromptu performances, and best of all – a protected stage for our Music in the Garden summer series.
With good care, a well-made timber frame lasts 200 years or more, and this one is very well made indeed. Come see! The Meadowlark is a fine building, but it is also a tribute to community, cooperation, and generosity. This treasure belongs to us all.
Click the arrows on either side of the photo to see more!
