The promise of a little sunshine, or at least no rain, brought 36 hikers to Smithfield. Everyone got to the Cedar Street parking lot early, and after introductions, we headed into Windsor Castle Park right on schedule. We hiked a mile through the woods, and then followed Jericho Rd. to the Windsor Castle Manor house (1750). Restoration of the house and outbuildings is just getting underway, so perhaps next year we can get a tour. We continued on Jericho Road, exiting the park onto S. Church Street so we could see some of the historic houses, particularly those formerly owned by the Gwaltney family. We crossed the boardwalk back to the park at Smithfield Station. I noticed the parking lot at that entrance was underwater with tidal flooding at 9am, so was glad we didn’t decide to meet there! We continued around the park along Cypress Creek and a horse farm. The farm’s for sale if anyone’s interested. When we got to the picnic area, quite a few opted for the short cut to the trail – a new nature scape slide built into the hillside. At the end of the 5 mile hike (4.99 for you happy sliders), we had to split the group for lunch with some going to Wharf Hill Brewing Company and some to A Taste of Smithfield. Next year we’ll have to rent a hall! After lunch, 11 of us hiked over to Ivy Hill Cemetery to look at some interesting and historical grave markers and to take in a lovely view of the Pagan River.
Diane
Click here for Bob M's pictures: https://goo.gl/photos/B9jqoLBt66txuNAj7