Come And Take A Walk With Me

About the Trail

The Ted Caplow Nature Trail was dedicated on June 4, 2017. Peggy Caplow spoke about her husband, Ted, his dedication to Emmanuel, and his wishes to preserve the natural beauty of the church. Thanks to Barbara and Bob Fuhrman, Sandy von Thelen and Kathleen Capshaw for all their work in creating this beautiful addition to our grounds. Trail elements/activities currently include:
  • A 0.6 mile loop around church grounds, with the addition of a boulder, gravel, and rock dust trail through wooded portion of the property
  • A trailhead kiosk displaying a large trail map on the front and an “interactive” board on the back holding information, small trail maps, photos, etc.
  • Six white numbered crosses used as trail markers designating historical aspects of the church property
  • Ten wooden stakes used as tree identification markers
  • Two benches at stream overlook areas
  • A mailbox for inspirational scripture, poems, messages, etc.
  • A new bluebird box set into a reclaimed garden bed

About Ted Caplow

May 1, 1920 - July 4, 2015
Celebrated scholar, professor, author, and sportsman, Ted Caplow’s enthusiasm for life was boundless!  Accompanied by family and friends, Ted loved sailing, flying, horseback riding, and many other sports. Whether sailing the Penobscot Bay near the family’s summer residence in Maine or exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains close to their home in Virginia, Ted was a true outdoorsman, always enjoying the magnificence of God’s Creation.  

Ted loved Emmanuel Church. A faithful congregant from 1970 until his death in 2015, Ted served as a trustee, Eucharistic minister, Senior Warden, and was the creator of the first endowment fund.  

Ted’s interest in trees led to his service on the Arboretum Committee at UVA. He loved trees, especially the great oaks of Emmanuel. One of his bequests was to create a nature trail to celebrate and preserve the beauty of the natural areas surrounding the church. The Caplow Nature Trail is a fitting tribute to Ted’s love for his family and friends, as well as a living memorial of his spirit and vision.

Come And Take A Walk With Me

A Prayerful Reflection by Barbara Fuhrman
Come and take a walk with me,
Emmanuel wonders you will see.
A remarkable 400-year-old White Oak tree,
Brick colonnades, bell tower, architectural beauty,
​The first service held Christmas Day, 1863.
Now all a part of Virginia's historic registry. 

Come and take a walk with me, 
Through the hallowed grounds of our cemetery.
Faithful members of our church family, 
Blessed souls peacefully rest in eternity.

Come and take a walk with me, 
Bread Fund, mission partners, an elder tea,
Linked hands build outreach ministry.
A sharing, caring community.

Come and take a walk with me, 
Teachers and priests guide carefully, 
Through lessons designed most prayerfully.
Christian formation strengthens spirituality.

​Come and take a walk with me, 
Look through the eyes of diversity.
Differing ages, cultures and ethnicity, 
All are welcome to join in unity.

As we walk, take time, and reflect with me,
Our past, our present, and our destiny,
​God and man in harmony.