Near West End

An American Indian trail once spanned the eastern area of Richmond all the way to the Blue Ridge Mountains--this became what we now know as Three Chopt Road. It was first called Three Notched Road marked for travelers by three notches on the trees that lined the road. Famously, Lafayette, Washington and Jefferson are just a few of the historical figures who have journeyed along this road.

The University of Richmond anchors this neighborhood--with beautiful, tree-lined streets whose names are often British royalty. It's picturesque really, each house is different, but grand on some scale. I'm drawn to the front doors--(as mentioned previously in my letter to The Fan); each door is a 6 paneled glass door, and 99% of the ones I've seen are painted a bright, cheery hue. From hot pink, to purple, to orange, and what UofR folks call "Richmond Red" they all tell a story. The neighborhood also boasts 2 private schools (St. Catherine's and St. Christopher's) where the cute little girls are clad in their Mary Jane's and pleated plaid skirt and white ruffled top. You drive by seeing them play on the schoolyard...their white bows bouncing. The boys in their sharp jackets and khakis--little men, who you just know one day will be ruling the world with all of their dreams and ideas. Need a little retail therapy? The shops on Libbie Ave. and Grove Ave, are upscale collections of wine, unique furniture, antiques, chocolates and gift shops. Stop in at Libbie Market and grab a fresh salad or some Maryland crabcakes--made fresh every day. Or for your sweet tooth, grab some of my favorite Chocolate chip cookies and sit out on the patio and enjoy the breeze. OR for a real treat, get a Lemon square...you won't be disappointed.