Venue 1848 - Main Street c1900

Here in 1912, at the intersection of Church and Main Streets, the Babcock Store was the heart of the community. In that day, neighbors came to town to gather supplies and share stories around an old wood-burning stove. Many of the long-time residents of Appomattox have fond memories of this building. While some remember the Babcock Store, others know this space as part of the old Hardware Store. They reminisce of coming to town as children with their daddy or grandpa or friend. As time passed, the old tools and discarded trinkets became relics of the past; antique dealers needed a space for their wares and The Appomattox Gallery was born. Visitors and shoppers enjoyed the associated Tea Room that was once here, but that too has come and gone.

Late in the summer of 2015, Don and I were planning to get our kids together for a special family celebration. At the time, two of our adult children lived in Pennsylvania and another lived in South Carolina. We chose central Virginia for our gathering place because it was a convenient geographical location for us all. When the festivities were over, we took a detour before heading home and visited the town of Appomattox for the first time. Not long after that trip we had opportunity to move to Virginia and would later purchase the property here at 1848 Church Street.

With a sincere desire to work together and a growing understanding of biblical stewardship, the idea of a “family business ministry” has been germinating in our hearts and home for many years. We consider the location at the intersection of Church Street and Main Street a providential reminder that true faith is applied in every area of life. Now, the old store is our home and place of business. As the owners of Venue 1848, we are caretakers and hosts given to hospitality. Here you will find the tea is sweet, the conversation is genuine, and the pace of life is purposeful.

The times and title to this property have changed. The general mercantile store made way for other types of use but the need to gather and share stories remains as important as ever. With the necessary upgrades complete and much of the original ambiance still intact, we offer this space to the Appomattox community and her guests for intimate weddings, special family celebrations, and small business events. We hope you will come use our space, share your stories, and make new memories with your family.

Venue 1848 has recently added overnight accomodations in The Loft upstairs. Visitors will find the historic downtown district of Appomattox a great location with easy access to local merchants. Within one block of the Venue there are multiple dining options. You can browse books, buy flowers, shop for gifts, and find a barber or hair salon. Walk another short distance to enjoy parks, churches, and historical monuments and markers.

Appomattox is significant in the American Civil War but there is a lot more than history in the Central Virginia area well worth exploring. Directly across the street from Venue 1848 is the Visitor Center where you can find information about other areas of interest, outdoor activities, and nearby attractions. We know you will enjoy your visit to Appomattox and we look forward to serving you.

In His service and with kind regards,

Don & Nancy Wilk