One of the questions we occasionally get from guests over breakfast is, “Where can we find something local to take home?”
It’s a good question. When you’ve spent a few days exploring Appomattox, visiting historic sites, wandering downtown, and enjoying a little time away, it’s nice to bring home something that reminds you of your visit. And while there’s certainly a place for the traditional souvenir, we think there’s something especially nice about finding something made right here in our community.
If you’re staying at Babcock House, here’s one local discovery worth making.
A Piece of Appomattox Pottery
Have you heard of Cub Creek Foundation?
Located right here in Appomattox County, Cub Creek Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports ceramic artists through its artist-in-residence program. Artists come to work, experiment, develop their skills, and create new pieces in a setting dedicated to the ceramic arts.
The foundation’s work includes wood firing, and artists have access to local clay found on the property. It’s a fascinating connection between the land, the creative process, and the finished pieces that eventually make their way into people’s homes.
And here’s the part that makes this especially relevant to visitors: you don’t have to be a pottery collector to appreciate what these artists create.
A handmade mug, a pitcher, a bowl, or another everyday piece can become a favorite long after your trip is over. Unlike a souvenir that ends up tucked away in a drawer, pottery can become part of your daily routine. Every time you reach for that morning coffee mug, you have a little reminder of your time in Central Virginia.
Where to Find Cub Creek Pottery
One of our favorite downtown stops is Baine’s Books & Coffee on Main Street in Appomattox.
Baine’s is much more than a bookstore. Along with books and coffee, the shop carries vinyl records, musical items, and pottery made by artists connected with Cub Creek Foundation. Its longstanding relationship with the foundation means visitors can find an assortment of handmade ceramic pieces while browsing the shelves.
You might find a mug for your morning coffee, a bowl for your kitchen, or a pitcher that catches your eye. The selection can vary, which is part of the fun of shopping for handmade work.
And don’t be surprised if you end up staying awhile. Grab a coffee, browse the books, and take your time looking around. That’s one of the pleasures of exploring a small town without a packed itinerary.
Souvenirs with a Story
We think there’s something special about bringing home an item that connects you to the place you visited and the people who make it unique.
Maybe it’s a piece of pottery made by an artist developing their craft in Appomattox County. Maybe it’s a book you discovered while wandering through a local shop. Maybe it’s something else entirely that caught your attention along the way.
The best souvenirs don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. Sometimes they’re simply useful things that remind us of a good trip, a conversation, or a place we enjoyed discovering.
And shopping locally means you’re also supporting the people and organizations that make our community interesting.
Make Time to Explore Appomattox
When you stay at Babcock House, we always encourage you to leave a little room in your plans for exploring beyond the major historic attractions. Walk downtown, stop for coffee, browse the shops, and see what catches your eye.
Appomattox has its own creative community, local businesses, and unexpected discoveries. You might arrive looking for a souvenir and leave with a handmade mug, a new book, and a story to tell about where you found them.
And if you find something especially good, tell us about it over breakfast. We’re always happy to hear what our guests discover around town.
Planning a visit to Appomattox? Stay at Babcock House, explore the local community, and take home a little piece of the place with you.