HCTV Programs

On April 22, 1948 the very first television broadcast south of our nation's capital happened right here in Central Virginia. WTVR began a legacy of quality local programming, which was soon followed by WXEX and WRVA. These early television pioneers brought us local favorites includingÊDandy Doodle, Sailor BobÊandÊShock Theatre. Join HCTV as we celebrate more than 60 years of community programming and look at how this new form of entertainment changed our lives forever in ÊAirwaves of Yesteryear: Early Television in Central Virginia.

The Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac Railroad was the sixth railroad to be chartered in the commonwealth, receiving exclusive rights from the General Assembly to connect Richmond and Fredericksburg to the Potomac River steamboat lines. RF&P played a key role in the Civil War and World War II, after which it modernized from steam engines to diesel locomotives. Over the course of its 157-year history the company acquired significant amounts of property along its route, including a number of acres in Henrico County Ñ land that is now home to Glen Allen Stadium at RF&P Park. Though its trains no longer run through the heart of Virginia, the RF&P remains embedded in the history of the communities it touched and in the imagination of the people it served.

Built between 1915 and 1918, the Armour House and Gardens at Meadowview Park is a sprawling 600-acre retreat boasting a scenic walking trail, tennis courts, children's play areas, gardens and a flowing fountain surrounded by arbors with blooming vines. Join HCTV as we document the rich Henrico history of the Victorian style home and Meadowview Park with rare photographs and interviews chronicling the property's intriguing past.

You may know which magisterial district you live in, but do you know how that district came to be, or why its boundaries are where they are? The reasons are far more interesting and complex than you may think. Our districts and our Board of Supervisors structure of governance can trace their roots back to the turbulent years following the Civil War, known as the Reconstruction Period, and havebeen evolving with the times ever since.

In the realm of horseracing greats, one thoroughbred from Virginia stands out: Secretariat. In 1973, as a 3-year-old, he won horse racing's Triple Crown Ñ breaking the track record at all three events. But more than a century before Secretariat rewrote the record book, another stallion from central Virginia became known far and wide for his speed, stamina Ñ and vicious temperament. This horse Ñ born in Henrico County and named Boston Ñ is part of an ancestral line that produced Secretariat and other notable horses. Join HCTV as we look into his life, victories and defeats inÊBoston: The Story of a Racehorse.

Ward Elementary School stands along Darbytown Road in Henrico County's rural Varina area. The school takes its name from Henry Ward, a compassionate, down-to-earth family man who helped spark the educations of a generation of local children. In and out of the classroom, Ward demonstrated an ability to lead and inspire. Nine years after Ward's death, the Henrico School Board honored his years of service to the community by naming a new school after him. Join HCTV as we explore his life and legacy in By George: The Story of Henry Ward.

Cashell Donahoe left an indelible mark on Henrico County, having served as assistant superintendent of schools from 1956 until 1974. But Donahoe was more than a teacher and an administrator. He was a mountain of a man, with an abiding faith, a commitment to others and a thirst for knowledge. Join HCTV as we examine the life ofÊCashell Donahoe: A Gentleman and a Scholar.

Born in 1891, Elizabeth Young Adam grew up in Richmond, and moved to Henrico in 1922, when she married her longtime beau, Sheppard Crump. They lived at Meadow Farm, where Elizabeth continued to live after her husband's death in 1960. She devoted her life to volunteering and philanthropic activities, and was esteemed throughout the community. Following her husband's wishes, she donated two parcels of land to Henrico County for today's Meadow Farm Museum and the Crump Manor nursing home, where she spent the last years of her life. Join HCTV as we learn more about this fascinating lady in Central Virginia Biographies: Elizabeth Adam Crump.

When Henrico County's population began to explode in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the City of Richmond attempted to acquire the county through a merger or "consolidation." Henrico's citizens flatly voted against the takeover attempt. Undeterred, the city then filed for a 142-square-mile annexation of the county"Ðan astonishing 60 percent of the county's land mass"Ðin a courtroom battle that lasted several years. Learn how narrowly escaping these bold attempts has defined and shaped the present and future of Henrico, inÊCity Limits.

Highland Springs was founded in 1890 as one of Henrico's first suburbs. Named for its high elevation and natural springs, the little unincorporated town became a hub of activity and community spirit. Hear from residents and high school alumni as they tell the tales of how Highland Springs came to be the unique community it is today.

The Huguenot, Willey, Varina-Enon and Pocahontas Parkway bridges keep our communities connected, spur commerce and growth, and serve as icons or symbols of the county. These four modern marvels of engineering science serve as gateways to Henrico, and are vital to the 21st century transportation network that moves the county and the region.

When it opened its doors in 1938, the Henrico Theatre was described as a "big city temple of entertainment set in beautiful rural surroundings." A classic example of art-deco architecture, the theatre was the crown jewel of Highland Springs. After years of successes and changes of ownership, the Henrico Theatre closed its doorsÑ until Henrico County purchased the property in 1999. Join HCTV as we reveal the story behind the theatre, follow the extensive renovation process and learn how it has become a historic landmark in the county.

On September 29, 1864, on fields south of New Market Road, African-American soldiers serving in the U.S. Colored Troops led an assault against Richmond's outer ring of defenses. One-hundred fifty years later, Henrico County brought the day back to life. More than 100 acres of Henrico farmland were transformed into the New Market Heights battlefield. Nearly 1,000 reenactors traveled from around the country to recreate the battle of New Market Heights. Watch how Henrico County bears witness Ñ both then and now Ñ to a significant moment in American history.

The Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and Õ60s brought seismic change to American society. Perhaps the greatest impact was felt in education. The U.S. Supreme CourtÕs 1954 decision in Brown vs. the Board of Education ordered that racial segregation in schools gave unequal treatment to blacks and whites, and was unconstitutional. The decision meant school systems would have to integrate. In Henrico County, the process of school desegregation occurred gradually from 1963 to 1969. Join HCTV as we hear the stories and learn the history of this revolution in education.

From a very early age, Douglas Southall Freeman dedicated himself to accurately recording the story of the Army of Northern Virginia and Robert E. Lee. His meticulous research methods and commitment to his work established him as a nationally known newspaper editor, radio commentator, military expert and Pulitzer Prize-winning historian. Join HCTV in this edition of Central Virginia Biographies as we explore what inspired and motivated Dr.ÊDouglas Southall Freeman: Voice of the Confederate Soldier.

Dr. John Mosby Sheppard of Meadow Farm was a country doctor and farmer during the 19th century"Ða very tumultuous time in Henrico County. Join HCTV as we shed light on Dr. Sheppard, take a glimpse into his medical practice, economic status and the Sheppard family's life during the mid-1800s.

Henrico residents probably recognize the name Patterson as one of the roads they often drive. The road's namesake, however, is likely an afterthought. Dr. Richard Archibald Patterson was a giant of his time Ñ a tobacco pioneer who helped forge his community's recovery from the Civil War; a public servant and philanthropist; a doctor and Civil War surgeon; and a proud Henrico resident who envisioned big things for his community. Join HCTV as we uncover the story of the man, his era and the community he served.

William Cleveland Bosher Junior was born January 21, 1946 in Richmond, and spent his childhood on his family's small farm in Hanover County. He landed his first teaching job in 1968 at Henrico's J.R. Tucker High School at the age of 22, eventually becoming Superintendent of Schools for Henrico County, Chesterfield County, and the Commonwealth of Virginia. He influenced the education of countless children and was known for his educational expertise nationally and internationally Ñ as well as his trademark bow tie. His legacy is in the lives he touched and the spirit of hope he cultivated everywhere he went. Join HCTV as we experience his extraordinary life inÊDr. William C. Bosher, Jr.: The Man Behind the Bow Tie.

For centuries, Henrico County has been a destination for people seeking a better life. From the natives who first settled thousands of years ago and the English colonists of the 17th century, to refugees from war-torn countries in the Balkans, Asia, and Africa, our county has become a mosaic of cultures, and a microcosm of the world's peoples. Join HCTV for a colorful glimpse into what brings people here from far and wide.

Edward A. Beck, Henrico's fourth county manager, led Henrico for a quarter of a century during times of significant growth. Beck drew upon his unique skills as a civil engineer to guide the county through a period of transition following World War II. His vision resulted in the vastly different, modernized Henrico that we know today. Join HCTV as we explore Beck's life, his leadership style and the legacy he left behind.

Henrico County Public Schools is widely recognized as one of the nation's premier school systems, but this modern model of excellence comes from humble beginnings. One cornerstone was laid in the late 19th century, in the parlor of a home on Mountain Road, where a dedicated teacher began sharing her love of learning with a handful of children from the nearby farms. By the time she was done, Elizabeth Jane Holladay had helped build a foundation for public education in Henrico. Students today continue to learn under her watchful eye Ñ at Holladay Elementary School in central Henrico, just a couple miles from her original classroom. Join HCTV as we learn about Miss Lizzie, her life and her dedication to education.

The Elko tract in eastern Henrico County is a place where you can't always believe what you see. It's also a place of purpose, reinvention and promise. What remains today has been called a "lost city," and much has been speculated about its past. The Elko name marks a middle school and a community center, and with land for further development, the tract remains a vital part of Henrico's plan for the future. Join HCTV as we explore the mysteries and misunderstandings of the Elko Files.

The mere mention of Robert E. Lee conjures up the image of a gray-haired, gray-bearded, gray-suited Confederate General, forever trapped in an 1865 photograph or in a bronze and stone monument. In reality, the Civil War was only four years of his multifaceted, fascinating life, and he was infinitely more complex than the icon he has become. In death, Robert E. Lee still commands attention. He will inevitably fascinate and divide opinion as long as his story continues to unfold. Join HCTV as we explore the controversial figure inÊAn Evolving Legend: The Story of Robert E. Lee.

In the late 1950s baseball became America's favorite pastime, and it was every young boy's dream to play the game. For the kids in Henrico, there was no organized league that would allow them to playÑuntil a group of fathers joined forces to form the Tuckahoe Little League. Through the years, the league has prospered and multiple generations of boys and girls have experienced baseball and softball on first-class fields. The tradition continues today, and HCTV takes you back to those glory years in The First Pitch: History of the Tuckahoe Little League.

William Vandervall was born in Richmond in 1860 to free black parents Leroy P. and Rebecca Vandervall. After the Civil War, the family saw opportunities beyond Richmond, and settled in an area of western Henrico known as Rio Vista. The familyÕs commitment to education proved profound. William advocated for educational equality for black students, worked as a teacher for 20 years and was the first African-American mail carrier in the area. His familyÕs land was used for a church and two schools located on Quioccasin Road. Vandervall died on October 10th, 1934, at age 74. He left a legacy of service to his community and to Henrico County.

Were it not for a typical late summer storm in Central Virginia, the events planned for August 30, 1800 might have changed the history of our country forever. A slave named Gabriel, owned by Thomas Henry Prosser of Brookfield plantation, conceived and organized a widespread slave uprising. Involving several Virginia localities, it was possibly the most far-reaching slave uprising planned in the history of the South. The plan might have succeeded had it not been for a sudden, severe downpour and the disclosure of the plot by several slaves, including Tom and Pharoah, who belonged to Mosby Sheppard of Meadow Farm. The alarm went out and the rebellion was thwarted. The effects of the conspiracy were profound and as a result, county and state leaders instituted legislation to regulate the movement of slaves and free blacks. Join HCTV as we tell the story of Gabriel and the failed insurrection inÊForging Freedom: The Story of Gabriel's Rebellion.

The history of Dutch Gap and the people who lived there spans four centuries of conflict and confusion. The Dutch Gap canal, located on the James River near the 17th-century Citie of Henricus, was originally constructed during the Civil War to shortcut the seven-mile loop around Farrar's Island. Join HCTV as we learn about Dutch Gap, how it got its name, and the many wars and battles fought throughout its history.

Robert C. Longan left an indelible mark across Henrico despite the limits of his own education. Longan grew up on his family's farm in rural Louisa County, before moving to Richmond where he married and became a successful businessman. In 1920, he opened Longan's Family Shoe Store downtown at Fifth and Broad, and in 1943 was elected to represent the Tuckahoe District on the Henrico Board of Supervisors. Longan retired from the board on December 31, 1959, and died from a heart attack the very next day. He left such a mark on Henrico that community leaders thought of him in 1964, when a new elementary school was being planned off West End Drive. R.C. Longan Elementary was dedicated two years later, in 1966.

Coal has been used as an energy source worldwide for thousands of years. In the United States, the coal industry originated on the banks of the James River and mines right here in Henrico County. Join HCTV as we document the industry's rise and fall, and see what remains today of Henrico's often overlooked coal history.

The arched cellar entrance of David Yuengling Junior's once mighty James River Steam Brewery is a portal to an amazing tale that lies buried in a Rocketts Landing hillside, nearly forgotten for a century. The mysterious facade bears no trace of the famous name or the tumultuous times during which an American staple, lager beer, was produced on a massive scale right here in Henrico County. Join HCTV for a journey into the cellars and back in time.

George Henry Moody held the office of superintendent for 13 of his 38 years with Henrico County Schools, and was honored and lauded in countless ways. He was a humble man, from humble beginnings, and is worthy of remembrance for leaving an indelible mark as an educator, a leader, and as a humanitarian in Henrico County. Join HCTV as we explore the man for whom Moody Middle School was named inÊGeorge Henry Moody: A Man to Remember, A Name to Honor.

Thanksgiving is celebrated all over the country. When we gather around the table to share a meal with family and friends, do we ever think about how the holiday began? Traditions dating back hundreds of years are still honored today, from turkey and stuffing to parades and football. Join HCTV as we explore the origins of one of America's most cherished holidays.

On April 6, 1917, the United States formally entered what would eventually come to be known as World War I. Every aspect of our society was affected. The citizens of Henrico County contributed their money, food, energy, and lives to the war effort. Henrico was also the site of a munitions plant staffed by patriotic women in what is now Sandston. Although millions died in combat or from disease, few reminders of the conflict exist today. Through archival film, posters, photographs, and the wartime letters of Meadow Farm's Sheppard Crump, HCTV takes you back to the forgotten war.

Charles Monroe Johnson didn't intend to shape the future of Henrico County when he settled near Bethlehem Road after World War II. As a young husband and father, he wanted simply to live in a strong, vibrant community. Today, Charles M. Johnson Elementary School stands as a testament to one man's willingness to step up, to volunteer and to devote himself to his community. Join HCTV as we talk to family members, friends and colleagues who share their stories of a true Henrico Statesman.

The James River in eastern Henrico County serves as a watery grave for three mighty ships from the Civil War. Today, the CSS Richmond, Virginia II and Fredericksburg remain casualties from the James River Squadron and footnotes to America's struggle to unite its North and South. But during the War, they marked an advanced breed of armored ship. They were Ironclads that forever changed naval combat. HCTV uncovers the untold story of Henrico's maritime combats during the Civil War inÊHenrico's Iron: Ironclad Battles on the James River.

In 1611, the "city or "town" of Henrico, was established as the second settlement of Virginia. By 1634, Henrico, named for the king's eldest son Henry, Prince of Wales, would become one of the eight original shires of Virginia. As we celebrate the 400th anniversary of Henrico County, we embrace the history that made us what we are today. Join HCTV as we explore Henrico's long journey of survival, independence and discovery, and learn about the people and events that shaped the county along the way inÊHenrico's Legacy: Commemorating 400 Years.

The mighty James flows through Henrico County like a great provider of wealth and opportunity. Early settlers in the new world saw that shipping goods and services along its waterways would be beneficial. This is a story of triumph and tragedies as we look at historic Henrico experiences along the James River and Kanawha Canal.

On the brightest of days, sunlight finds a way to cut through the canopies of mature trees at East End Cemetery in Henrico County. Don't be misled by the heavy undergrowth and tangles of vines Ñ this is sacred ground, the final resting place for thousands of African-Americans from the turn of the 20th century. Join HCTV as we gain insight into the cemetery's rich cultural history, and learn how the land is slowly being reclaimed by volunteers determined to uncover East End's secrets.

The story of Henrico's historic churches began in 1611 when Sir Thomas Dale established a settlement on the edge of the western frontier. From those early days at Henricus to today's ever-changing communities, historic churches are the windows to our past. Join HCTV as we explore the culture, heritage, and architecture of these celebrated places of worship.

Gravel Hill sits tucked away in eastern Henrico County, bearing only humble monuments to its extraordinary history. Among the rustic surroundings are a scattering of modest homes, a small church and an old school building. The community dates back to 1771, and has persevered against the odds due to grit, determination, self-reliance and pride. Join HCTV as we tell this remarkable story of one of the first African-American communities in the nation.

New Market Road, part of the Route 5 corridor in eastern Henrico, is one of VirginiaÕs most historically significant roads. Native Americans, war veterans, local farmers and artisans travelled this byway during times of war and peace, creating history along the way. Join HCTV as we explore the times gone by in The History of New Market Road: Connecting the Past to the Future.

For more than four decades, Henrico's Division of Recreation and Parks has been committed to helping residents pursue good health and good times. With more than 4 million park visitors each year, the division has embraced the responsibility of caring for more than 3,600 acres of parkland, 140 recreational buildings and 35 historic sites. But the Division of Recreation & Parks had humble beginnings, with a few recreational activities organized at local schools. Join HCTV as we learn about the history of Recreation & Parks, and how the division has grown to serve the residents of Henrico.

Arthur Ashe, Jr. is known worldwide as a tennis champion, an advocate for education and for his tragic death due to AIDS-related pneumonia as a result of a blood transfusion. Ashe's legacy and his ties to Central Virginia are further cemented in the Henrico County public school that bears his name, Arthur Ashe, Jr. Elementary. Join HCTV as we explore the man behind the tennis racket, and learn about how he used his notoriety to help the people of Richmond, especially children.

Jackson Davis made his name as an education reformer. He travelled with his camera, taking thousands of photographs documenting the often-poor condition of African-American education in the South during the first half of the 20th century. These stark images and Davis' meticulous notes helped attract private investment that gradually lifted rural communities still suffering from the Civil War. While his service to Henrico lasted only a few years, Davis' legacy continues. In 1962, the School Board opened Jackson Davis Elementary honoring the catalyst for educational equality.

To southerners, James Ewell Brown Stuart is best known as the "Bold Cavalier" of the Confederate Cavalry during the American Civil War, and as Robert E. Lee's go-to intelligence man. Join HCTV as we follow J.E.B. Stuart's journey from his boyhood in Ararat, Virginia; his cadet years at West Point; his encounter with abolitionist John Brown at Harpers Ferry; and finally, to his mortal wounding at the Battle of Yellow Tavern in Henrico County.

Chief Justice John Marshall helped shape the future of our nation. From his humble beginnings on the Virginia frontier, Marshall served his country in the American Revolutionary War, became a prominent and respected politician, and served for 34 years as Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. His wisdom, patriotism, and judicial expertise set an example of justice for the world to follow. Learn how Marshall's leadership cemented the role of the Supreme Court as the Law of the Land in this Central Virginia Biography, John Marshall: In the Opinion of the Court.

The Tucker name has a legacy of great lawyers and law educators in Virginia dating back to our country's beginning. John Randolph Tucker continued the family heritage and became a highly respected law practitioner and educator just as his ancestors before him. But it was because of his firm belief in civic betterment that he fought for Henrico County to have its own professional government that gave Tucker a legacy all his own.

With a life that spanned from his native England to the American frontier and ultimately Henrico County, John Cussons left us with a colorful image of his spirited adventures and brash personality. But what do we really know about him? Is it possible to separate the truth from the fiction? The man from the legend? Join HCTV as we learn about the fearless pioneer inÊLarger than Life: Captain John Cussons (1838-1912).

Lewis Ginter is probably best known in our area for the botanical garden bearing his name. Located in Henrico County, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is but one of the many contributions Ginter made to the Metro Richmond area with the help of his niece, Grace Arents. Although Metro Richmond was a home Ginter adopted, he profoundly changed the landscape and quality of life through his fascinating and diverse business ventures.

Mills Edwin Godwin, Jr., known as Virginia's Education Governor, was born November 19, 1914 in Nansemond County, Virginia (now the City of Suffolk). During his two terms as governor, Godwin championed the community college system in Virginia, was a key player in the Civil Rights Movement, and implemented the sales tax in the Commonwealth. Godwin remains the only governor in the country who was elected and served his first term as a democrat, and his second as a republican. Join HCTV as we learn more about Godwin through the stories of people who knew him best.

Is there anything more American than the dollar bill? Today it is instantly recognized around the world and universally accepted as payment for just about anything. But American currency traveled a long and colorful course over several centuries before it became the global force we know today. Its development is intertwined with the nation's history, and its evolution continues. Join HCTV as we explore the progressive phases of our legal tender in MONEY: The Evolution of Currency in America.

Thomas Jefferson's dream was to build a home in the mountains of Virginia. Throughout the years, his many experiences gave him a wealth of knowledge to make this dream come true. Monticello not only reflects Jefferson's many interests, but also embodies the spirit of all the people who lived and worked to make this home one of the most famous man-made wonders of Virginia.

The lilting music of the Carter family sprang from the hills of Southwest Virginia, but it flowered in Henrico County. For about six years during the 1940s, Maybelle Carter and her young daughters "Ð Helen, June and Anita "Ð set roots in Central Virginia. In 1946, they saw their popularity explode when they landed a spot with Richmond's biggest station "Ð WRVA "Ð and its premier stage for hillbilly fun. The family moved to Henrico in 1947, buying a two-story home on what used to be Mountain Road. Join HCTV as we talk to former friends, classmates and fans to learn about Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters during their Henrico years.

Henrico County's Belmont Golf Course was first established in 1917 as Hermitage Country Club on Hilliard Road. The golf course hosted such prestigious events as the Valentine Invitational, The Richmond Open, and the 1949 PGA Championship. Henrico purchased the property in 1977 and named the golf course Belmont. The 18-hole course is open to the public, and is one of the area's finest recreational venues. Join HCTV as we meet the golfers and explore the history, fun and challenges of the course in On the Green: Belmont Golf Course.

The National System of Interstate and Defense Highways united the far corners of the nation, changing lives and landscapes along the way. While their existence is largely taken for granted, they remain the most ambitious public works project in American history. More than one thousand miles of the network was allocated for Virginia in the 1956 plan. Henrico County benefitted from three components: I-95, I-64 and I-295. Together, they formed the framework for Henrico's future growth. Join HCTV for a revealing road trip that connects past and present.

Few people traveling through Laurel on Hungary Road seem to notice that they're in one of the county's historic districts, or that they're passing through the site of the state's first reformatory. HCTV takes an investigative journey into the dramatic and complex history of the Laurel Industrial School, examines its legacy, and sheds light on its place on the path to modern juvenile justice.

Long before Henrico's modern administration and courts complex was built on Parham Road, the center of county government was nestled on a little island in the City of Richmond. Join HCTV as we chronicle more than two and a half centuries since the first Henrico courthouse was built at 22nd and Main, the controversy surrounding the ownership of the property, the gradual relocation of county operations and the ultimate fate of the Victorian marvel that still rests there today.

Although more than 400 years have passed since she stepped into history, Pocahontas continues to capture the imagination of people everywhere. While representations of her continue to proliferate, how much is really known about the enigmatic icon? Join HCTV for a fresh look at the making of the legend, and how her fascinating journey unfolded.

With polish and precision, the honor guards of Henrico County lead by quiet example and command respect for the flags of our nation, state and county. They also help honor the men and women who serve and sacrifice for us all. The Police and Fire divisions and the Sheriff's Office each has its own ceremonial unit. They continue a proud military tradition that dates to 1784 and the end of the American Revolution.

The students at Pinchbeck Elementary School are known as the Rays Ñ for good reason. The school's name and mascot come from Raymond B. Pinchbeck, a man who served his community locally and nationally. As a Henrico School Board member, a Dean at the University of Richmond and a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, Pinchbeck brightened lives throughout the community and inspired a character in the popular 1970s television series The Waltons.

By the early 1950s, Rear Admiral Richard Evelyn Byrd had become one of the world's experts on the Earth's polar regions. Leading his men into undiscovered icy territory in the name of science and exploration earned him the label of an American hero during the first half of the 20th century. Learn about Virginia's own extraordinary explorer, and original namesake of Richmond International Airport, in Richard Evelyn Byrd: Admiral of the Antarctic.

Taps, the unmistakable bugle melody that has signaled day's end for our military for more than 150 years, is perhaps best known as a song of mourning and as the final tribute at funerals for service members. While the twenty-four deceptively simple notes are easily recognizable, their origin is much more complex. Join HCTV for a musical journey that spans the Eastern Henrico Civil War battles in the summer of 1862, and the creation of Taps at Berkeley Plantation soon thereafter, to Arlington National Cemetery where it is played an average of thirty times a day.

This premiere edition of Central Virginia Biographies takes you into the world of "America's Shakespeare," Edgar Allan Poe. The brilliant but troubled writer is credited with mastering the genre of science fiction, detective fiction, and the horror story, in addition to creating mesmerizing poetry and establishing the format of the short story. The legendary author of The Raven, The Tell-Tale Heart and The Fall of the House of Usher grew up in Richmond, and considered himself a Virginian wherever his travels led him. Take a poetic journey back in time with HCTV's Southern Man of Mystery: Edgar Allan Poe.

The Mercer Hugh Cosby Farm, located in western Henrico County, has been part of one familyÕs story for five generations. Significant for its ownership by one African-American family dating back to the late 1800s, Mercer Hugh Cosby built the farmhouse in the 1880s on 52-acres. Today, the Cosby farm teems with cornstalks and other crops Ñ and it gives barely notice to the suburban development thatÕs sprung up nearby. Join HCTV as we learn more about this family of farmers, educators and preservationist and its notable place in HenricoÕs history.

Bluegrass represents a distinctly American style of music, a beautiful blend of old-timey, Celtic, gospel, country and blues. Henrico County is keeping the music alive by organizing a bluegrass jam each month at Dorey Park. If you've stood before the microphone and or clapped from the audience, you know there's something about bluegrass that tugs on your soul.

In 1903, the Wright Brothers harnessed the mystery of flight. Male-dominated American aviators began to explore the skies and capture the imagination. But before long, women stepped forward with their own spirit of adventure. Join HCTV as we meet Martha C. West, Genevieve Krimm Orange and Maude "Maxine" Walker who found their passion for flying and a desire to go beyond the traditional roles expected of women.

Singer-songwriter Tommy Edwards crooned his way to the top of the charts in the 1950s, selling millions of records in the U.S. and around the world. The Henrico native appeared on the programs of entertainment icons Ed Sullivan and Dick Clark, and headlined shows in major cities. But fame would prove to be fleeting for HenricoÕs biggest star, who found his career peaking at the same time American popular music was dramatically changing. Join HCTV on a musical journey through TommyÕs life and times, which began and ended in HenricoÕs West End.

Virginia Estelle Randolph was a pioneer educator in Henrico County during the 19th and 20th centuries. Her innovative ideas and vocational curriculum termed "The Henrico Plan" was adopted throughout the south and internationally. Randolph made remarkable strides in African-American education during an unsettled time in our history. Join HCTV as we look inside the life of Virginia Estelle Randolph, and learn how her legacy lives on today.

Virginia is known as the Mother of Presidents for good reason: more United States presidents hail from this great state than any other. Virginia has produced eight U.S. presidents, including Washington, Jefferson, Monroe, Harrison, Tyler, Taylor and Wilson. Each played a vital role in the formation of our country and our democratic form of government. These insightful and experienced leaders guided our country through times of war and peace, and helped shape the United States of America.

For more than two centuries, VirginiaÕs electorate has expanded and become more representative of its people Ñ though not without struggle. Much like the voting ranks have changed over time, so has the process. Changes brought by the Voting Rights Act and other measures inspired by the Civil Rights Movement reverberated throughout the Commonwealth. The unfettered right to vote is available to more Virginians today than at any point in the stateÕs history. That right is not always exercised, however. Join HCTV as we explore the history of voting and the evolution of elections in Virginia.

Henrico's historic Dabbs House has been restored and is now open to the public for an inside look at this significant national landmark. The structure has been used for many diverse purposes through its lifetime, including an antebellum farmhouse, Confederate General Robert E. Lee's headquarters, an alms house, Henrico police headquarters and an office building. Visitors will learn fascinating stories about the Dabbs House, and discover why it has stood the test of time.

The history of the rolling fields and grassy pastures of Meadow Farm is a story of land and people. It stretches over seven generations of the Sheppard family, tracing back to Virginia's earliest days and beyond. Land that was once inhabited by the Monacan Indians has been host to a thriving agricultural farm, an unsuccessful slave revolt by Gabriel Prosser, the doorstep to a 13 mile long Union march to the battle of Yellow Tavern, and eventually a generous gift by the Crump family as a historical museum and park to the residents of Henrico County.

In the near West End of Richmond Ñ not far from the bustle of Willow Lawn Ñ stands a community that speaks to the power of unity, determination and perseverance. The village of Westwood was established by former slaves in the late 19th century in what was then a remote, rural part of Henrico County. Over decades, the community grew to include dozens of humble homes as well as stores, a church and a school. But the community found itself drawn into a fight for its own survival. Facing seemingly impossible odds, the families held firm and discovered just how resilient their village could be.