Steeles Tavern: Mowing Machine History and Scenic Routes

Steeles Tavern combines the history of American agriculture with a variety of trails and scenic routes.

Following in the Footsteps of Cyrus McCormick

An important part of the area’s history is the development of the mowing machine. Cyrus Hall McCormick (1809–1884) developed the first effective mowing machine at Walnut Grove. In 1831, he gave the machine’s first public demonstration in an oat field in front of the tavern. This history makes Steeles Tavern an interesting destination for travelers interested in inventions, agriculture, and the development of rural life.

To commemorate this history, the log workshop where the first mowing machine was built and the adjacent log mill are open to the public. The memorial area honoring Cyrus McCormick at the Shenandoah Valley Agricultural Research and Extension Center is also designated as a National Historic Landmark and Virginia Wayside. The individual sites focus on different aspects: The workshop emphasizes manufacturing, while the memorial area explores the historical significance of the person and his work.

Mill Day and the Marl Creek Interpretive Trail

A special date to consider when planning a trip is the annual Mill Day. It takes place on the first Saturday in October at the Shenandoah Valley Agricultural Research and Extension Center. On this occasion, the McCormick grist mill is operated. During McCormick Farm Mill Day, the Marl Creek Interpretive Trail is also open for hiking.

The trail offers autumn scenery with a meadow where native flowers grow for pollinators. For families, this event can offer an interesting combination of history and nature: Part of the day focuses on the mill and agriculture, while another part is devoted to hiking and observing the landscape. The Marl Creek Interpretive Trail is specifically described in connection with McCormick Farm Mill Day. The McCormick Farm Museum is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; the historic buildings, including the museum, remain closed on government holidays and in bad weather.

Steeles Tavern as a Starting Point for Scenic Routes

Steeles Tavern also has a clear thematic connection for a road trip. The North Rockbridge Trail is a scenic drive that runs through Steeles Tavern along Route 11 and surrounding side roads. Travelers who enjoy combining different experiences along the way can plan this route as a separate excursion and shape their stay differently from a purely cultural itinerary.

Another notable connection is Virginia Route 56. It is designated as a Virginia Byway and runs from the Blue Ridge Parkway in Augusta County to Route 11 near Steeles Tavern in Rockbridge County. The designation was granted on December 18, 1997.

Early History of Steeles Tavern

The area’s history reaches back to the period following the Battle of Guilford Court House. In 1781, David Steele settled with his young wife in a house on the road between Staunton and Lexington, where he provided lodging for the few travelers passing through. This early history recounts David Steele’s settlement and his role as an innkeeper.

Compare Other Destinations

If you would like to compare different destinations before booking, you can also include Fishersville and Verona in your broader travel plans. For Steeles Tavern itself, it is worth choosing your preferred vacation rental based on whether your trip will focus more on cultural history, the autumn Mill Day, a scenic drive, or a stay with several different discoveries.

For the broader travel overview: Augusta County.