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NOTE: The descriptions of the places in this guide were accurate at the time the articles were posted. Please be advised that you should call ahead before traveling to any of them. |
Sussex County, Virginia - A place for nuts and those who love them (Peanuts, that is)By: Michelle Harper
For more information visit: Thanks for visiting VirginiaWind.
© Copyright 2012 VirginiaWind
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Since
the days of Jimmy Carter, Plains, GA has long held the reputation of being
the peanut center of the country. Few people realize that the first commercial
peanut crop was harvested right here in the heart of Virginia in Waverly,
Sussex County around 1842. This proud heritage continues to this day,
which is demonstrated by the many locations throughout the county that
pay tribute to this humble goober. The entire journey into the wonderful
world of peanuts can be completely covered through a ride along Rt. 460.
Within a few miles you can learn more than you ever thought possible about
peanuts. 
The
first stop is a visit to the Miles B. Carpenter Museum Complex in Waverly,
which is home to the First Peanut Museum. In addition to a myriad of peanut
memorabilia to encompass the complete history of the peanut, the complex
also includes the home of Miles B. Carpenter, the folk artist who is probably
best known for his depiction of the slice of watermelon with a bite taken
out of it. The museum is located near the intersection of Rt. 460 and
Rt. 40 and is open Thursday through Monday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission
is based upon voluntary donations.
After
being totally immersed into the world of peanuts, you probably can't help
but get a bit hungry for a taste of this versatile nut. Not to worry,
just a few miles down the road in Wakefield, VA lies The Virginia Diner,
noted as "Peanut Capital of the World". This popular establishment
boasts down-home cooking and offers complimentary peanuts while you wait
for your delicious meal consisting of many peanutty delights ranging from
a peanut butter and jelly sandwich to a slice of unbelievably tasty peanut
pie.
Directly
across the street from The Virginia Diner, lies the Plantation Peanuts
of Virginia store, where you can view one of the first mechanical peanut
diggers located in front of the building. Inside, you can find many different
peanut products including those based on the company's original Waverly
recipe. You can also learn about all the many different ways to store,
prepare and cook peanuts in a wide variety of recipes.
While,
there may be many other locations throughout Virginia and the United States
that claim peanuts as their mainstay, Sussex County, Virginia holds the
undisputed title for being the first to realize the potential of this
wonderful crop. So, for a great day trip to satisfy both your mind and
your appetite don't miss Sussex County, Virginia. You will never look
at Mr. Peanut the same way again.