Back a long time ago, a fellow named Donald Lemmon used to lead Wheelmen rides to the Palace of Gold. Back then, my perception was that most of the riders who rode with the group were racers. Since I wasn’t, I never joined them. But making time to see the place was on my bucket list, so today I finally checked it off.
From the Western Pennsylvania Wheelmen newsletter, called the "Cycling Circular," is a listing for Donald Lemmon's ride to the Palace of Gold. The date is October 1989.
All day rain was the forecast, as late as yesterday afternoon. A strong thunderstorm, with tornado warnings, rolled through in the early evening. By morning, the rain subsided, the sun came out, and I decided to go for it. Turned out to be a dry ride and a good decision. From Wheeling, I headed South on the National Road.
The National Road rolls on ahead, out of Wheeling.
At Elm Grove, the main road (SR-88/US-250) is crossed and the name changed to Kruger. Shortly thereafter, the first of several Wheeling Creek crossings began the quieting down that is always appreciated during a ride. The road changed names a few times, each change continued the progression to a peaceful country road called Big Wheeling Creek. It happened to be running alongside a stream with the same name.
BWCR left the stream bed and began to climb. Most of it was gradual. The palace and the community complex is on the top of a hill called McCreary’s Ridge. So, the climbing becomes more challenging as one gets closer to it.
A few words about the little compound. It was established by the Hari Krishnas around 1968. Since that time, impressive structures have been built, including a temple, the Palace of Gold, and a community of worshippers with housing, gardening, and farming. The area is called New Vrindaban.
Upon arriving, I checked in at the visitor center, was welcomed, and had very few (if any) restrictions placed on my presence. Although it is Memorial Day, there were quite a few people of Indian descent visiting. I suppose it makes sense. Memorial Day is a 3-day weekend, there is time to travel to this place of comfort and familiarity. I saw license plates from several states that are within a day’s drive from here. Some photos of my self-guided tour follow.
Albino Peacock. The sounds these birds make is quite distinctive. A fellow touring the place told me it reminds him of his home in India, where the birds and the sounds are commonplace .
I returned to Wheeling by the same route, except that I used the Heritage Trail, instead of the now busy National Road, for the final few miles. Some additional photos follow.
Neat abandoned railroad bridge near the intersection of BWCR and Caldwell Hill Road.
This was a good ride. The visit to the site was enhanced by some friendly folks who took the time to explain some things to me. Tomorrow, I’ll tackle another Donald Lemmon destination.
Today's ride: 27 miles (43 km) Total: 440 miles (708 km)
