This is one of the most intimate of all the sites along the trail. Although the cache is located on the edge of the Hatfield Family Cemetery, please take a moment to stroll among the graves to the knoll to the grave of Preacher Anderson Hatfield (the magistrate in the Hog trial).
Here you will find the Hatfield family washstand.
Carved from solid blocks of sandstone, this outdoor washstand is one of two which were made by Robert (Uncle Bob) Hatfield, older brother of Ransom Hatfield, and son of Elder Anderson Hatfield.
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The source of the sandstone is most likely the quarry which is located on the right side of Hatfield Branch just West of the Anderson Hatfield Cabin some 500 foot over the hill from the washstand.
The washstand, shaded by large cedar trees, was situated near the well in the front yard of the Homeplace. It's principal purpose was as a place for the farmworkers to wash and prepare themselves for dinner prepared by Mrs Polly Hatfield, wife of Preacher Anse. Weary travelers passing by were welcomed to stop and have a drink or wash their hands in the washstand.
Place your hand on the top of the stone and imagine that Preacher Anderson, His Wife and children must have touched the same spot some 120 years ago.
As you feel the rough surface of the aged sandstone, know that each of the members of the Hatfield Family and no doubt some of the McCoy clan have all placed their hands in this very spot. |
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