The Whitacre family immigrated to the Shenandoah Valley in search of farm land that they could call their own. The homestead home pictured here was built from timbers and stones found right on
the property.
The Whitacre and Braithwaite families opened and operated a tomato cannery on their farm in Whitacre, VA. This cannery was only in operation for a few years prior to a devastating tomato blight that closed it down.
George S. Whitacre and his son Lee started their first apple orchard together in 1903. The stencil pictured here was hand cut out of lead and would have been used to mark barrels of apples that were shipped to markets far and wide.
Shawnee Canning Company Inc. was originally owned and operated by Max and Paul Braithwaite. They manufactured canned tomatoes, beans, and apple butter that were distributed to local grocery store and markets.
After World War II, Winchester Equipment received a Ford 8N and an Allis-Chalmers B. With demand high and supply low, local farmers gathered to draw straws for a chance to purchase one. Our family was lucky enough to win second pick—securing this hardworking Allis-Chalmers B!
Now fully restored, this piece of history stands as a tribute to the past and the farmers who built our community. Stop by or market on Senseny Road where she is proudly held and see it for yourself!
William Lee Whitacre opened his first roadside produce stand at a bustling intersection in Cross Junction, offering fresh farm-grown apples, peaches, pears, plums, sweet corn, and a variety of vegetables.
William Lee and George B. Whitacre purchased Shawnee Canning Co. and relocated their roadside stand to the front of the building, establishing Shawnee Springs Market. The name "Shawnee Springs" honors the deep Native American roots of Cross Junction, VA.
Shawnee Springs became a popular stop along 522 North for families traveling through the area, known for its fresh produce, gourmet canned goods, and apple cider. However, in 1980, plans were announced to expand 522 North, bypassing the small town of Cross Junction, VA.
The new Shawnee Springs Market opened along the expanded 522 North. Around this time, Lisa Whitacre, William Lee’s daughter, returned to the family business to oversee market operations. The storefront also expanded to better serve the community, adding fuel services and a selection of prepared foods.
William Lee and George expanded their fruit-growing operation to several hundred acres. At its peak, they maintained orchards in Winchester, Cross Junction, and Pennsylvania.
Shawnee Springs received a grant from the state of Virginia to expand its manufacturing facility, marking its largest renovation to date. The project included a state-of-the-art manufacturing line and multiple building upgrades.
Shawnee Springs proudly expanded with a second retail location on Senseny Road in Winchester, VA, bringing farm-fresh goodness even closer to the community.