Rise, Meadowlark!
With help from the capital campaign, Boxerwood will soon replace our well-worn stage with a new and improved covered roof structure. This timber-built stage and open air classroom will be called The Meadowlark. We are dedicating this handmade wonder to Hunter Mohring and KB (Karen) Bailey, two founders of Boxerwood Education Association, whose heart-felt vision and work have helped make Boxerwood what it is today.
Built the old-fashioned way, the Meadowlark will rise from hand-hewn timbers to a standing structure the second weekend of October 2026. Everyone is invited to come watch this amazing process and meet the many volunteers bringing this dream to life.
On Friday and Saturday October 9–10, skilled volunteers will cut the timber frame for this new building at the Rockbridge workshop of Grigg and Cindy Mullen, who have generously hosted timber framing events for over 25 years. Visitors may stop by the Mullen complex anytime between 9am-12pm or 1pm-5pm to watch the timbers take shape. Led by local timber framers and the Mullens, the project also relies on VMI cadets and skilled volunteers traveling from all over the country.
On Sunday, October 11, the really exciting part happens: the entire frame goes up in a single day, here at Boxerwood. It's a sight to behold — like an old-fashioned Amish barn raising, with about 80 volunteer timber framers donating their time, skill, and muscle. We'd love for you to come witness the timber-raising. Join us anytime between 10am and 4pm on Sunday. Access is from Munger Lane, with parking in the field.
Many thanks to the Mullens and all the timber framers, as well as Blue Ridge Lumber Co., who donated the timbers, and to Welsh Construction, who donated their time and materials to pour the foundation piers that will hold this building up for generations.
We also want to thank the various churches, groups, and individuals who have stepped up to feed the volunteers during their Rockbridge stay. We’re still looking for some more folks to help serve one or more of the already prepared meals at the Mullens’ complex. Please contact Operations Director Hannah West if you are able to help with a 2 hr. shift. (hannah@boxerwood.org)
This is what community looks like: neighbors, volunteers, and friends coming together to build something lasting, by hand, for everyone. Come be part of it all, welcoming the sweet arrival of our new Meadowlark.
