On the morning of Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, several dozen Poolesville Seniors joined with American Legion Post 247 and British allies to successfully complete the annual Operation River Crossing. Approximately 58 hardy folks of all ages assembled at Calleva Farm for insightful historical background on White’s Ford, the site of Civil War troop river crossings, provided by historians Jon Wolz and Jim Poole.
The large group trekked downhill through fields and forest, and along the C&O Tow Path to the Potomac River at White’s Ford. The river water was clear with a refreshing temperature for a warm day and the water level was recorded at 2.8 feet. The less rocky riverbed from the Maryland shore to Mason Island made an easier crossing. A plethora of feathery river bottom aquatic plants, possibly myriophyllum spicatum, dictated some high stepping in the water. Larger slippery rocks and a very strong current between Mason Island and the Virginia shore made that segment more challenging.
With a little help from friends and new acquaintances, all 58 participants completed the crossing and returned safely to the Maryland shore. After a few minutes of respite and a change to dry shoes, the hike back up the hill through forest and field was a bit more challenging than the downhill portion.
Back at the Calleva Saloon home base, the group was generously rewarded with a catered lunch from Wawa provided by American Legion Daniel-Jeffers Post 247, the event sponsors.
It was a great experience and something to tick off of your bucket list! Be sure to watch for next year’s river crossing operation.