The logo of overflowing apple baskets surrounding a wagon reminds us of the pioneers who carried apple seeds in their pockets to begin new settlements in the valley and the importance of the Great Philadelphia Wagon Road, the migration route which brought settlers to this area and beyond. Both symbols also relate to important industries in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Groves of apple trees line the country roads of Frederick County for miles. Winchester, the center of the apple industry in the valley, is home to the annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in May and the Apple Harvest Festival in September. From the 1790s to the 1850s Stephensburg (Stephens City) was the center of the wagon making trade in Virginia.

Hear the stories of early pioneers, the Civil War soldiers from both North and South, and the citizens of today. Catch the footsteps of folks walking through the valley and the sounds of wagon wheels rolling along the ruts in the road. Be open to the spirits in the slave kitchen of the Wayside Inn. Listen to the music of Patsy Cline. Taste the delicacies of southern cooking. Imagine the beauty of the apple blossoms in spring and savor the fall colors in September. Join us for Echoes of the Shenandoah!

In addition to registration information and a tentative schedule, this section of the web site provides context-setting reports related to this celebration. Historical and genealogical reports provide background for the gathering. These were previously printed in Volumes 13 and 14 of the Journal of Clan Ewing and are available online by clicking here. Other reports showcase places of interest which guests may want to include in their visit to Virginia and the Frederick County area. There are Tidbits to enhance your knowledge of the area and practical Things to Know Before You Go to the Gathering.