For much on the last century, the Carr and Greer families have farmed the land now making up the Ivy Creek Natural Area. Through hard work and perseverence, Hugh Carr, a freed slave, acquired more than 200 acres of this land for his family farm. His eldest daughter, Mary Carr Greer, became a prominant educator in the community. Greer Elementary School is named in her honor.
| Under the direction of Mary Greer's husband, Conly Greer, Riverview Farm became a showcase of advanced farming techniques. Under the care of his son-in-law, Conly Greer, River View Farm grew the cash crops corn and wheat as well as hay to feed the livestock. Dairy cows, hogs and chickens were also kept. Eggs, as well as milk and the cream skimmed from it, were sold locally. Close to mid-century, Greer’s livestock began to reflect regional trends, focusing more on cattle and horses. |
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After Mary Greer's death, the Nature Conservency purchased the land from the family to save it from impending development. Today, the park is home to many species of plants and animals and is enjoyed by visitors all year round. The land is now owned jointly by the City of Charlottesville and the County of Albemarle. |
In memory of the Carr/Greer family, this cache will take you on a tour of the park and a few of the historical artifacts as well. To reach the park, Take Rio/Hydraulic Road from Charlottesville, and turn onto Rt. 741/Earlysville Road. The park is 1/2 mile on the left.
First, park in the parking lot at the entrance to the park. The park has strict rules for usage, including no pets or bicycles. Go to the coordinates listed above, then fill in the following information:
- Hugh Carr's age when he died was = A B
- Hugh and Texie's only son, Marshall, died at age - 1 = C D
- Their daughter, Mary, was born in this month (number): . Multiply this number by 5 to get = E F
Behind you, you will see a map kiosk, go ahead and grab a trail map. After reading more about the history of the area, you will find the year that the Nature Conservency bought the farm. The last digit of that year is = G
A = ____
B = ____
C = ____
D = ____
E = ____
F = ____
G = ____
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Use the chart at left to fill in the letters on the final coordinates:
| 38°N 0G.AB6 |
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38°N 0___.___ ___6 |
| 078°W CD.EF2 |
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078°W ___ ___.___ ___2 |
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To get to these coordinates, you will need to go for a short hike in the park. Continue down the trail you are on, and take a left at the barn to find the trail. STAY ON MARKED TRAILS AT ALL TIMES!!! When you reach the coordinates, you will be at a tree that is over 200 years old. To log this virtual cache, email me the name of the person that this tree was named after. Good Luck!!