Treasures in Stone

Ask an Author, with Rick Lambert

Friday, September 5, 10:30 am

Known as the Cyclopean Towers in the 1800s, the Natural Chimneys, near Mount Solon, Virginia, have been a tourist attraction for almost 200 years. In 1845, they were included as “among the greatest curiosities of nature in the Union.” As a result, they have been celebrated in magazine and newspaper articles, poetry, drawings, and photographs.

Treasures in Stone: A History of the Natural Chimneys Mount Solon, Virginia documents much of this history. As a veteran caver, Rick Lambert shares not only the history and activities that maintain the public’s enthusiasm for the site, but also explains the geology of the formations. As a bonus, Lambert collected over 100 images and illustrations, creating a beautiful photo album of the historical destination.

Lambert’s caving enthusiasm began early through family roots in West Virginia’s Germany Valley. He is a Virginia Speleological Survey Director at Large, past member of the Virginia Cave Board, and a regional historian. 

Event recording available on Rocktown History’s YouTube live channel—watch the video below.