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What is Banshee Reeks?
The name
In the early part of the 19th century, the owner of the farm now called Banshee Reeks was said to be of Irish/Scottish descent. In the Gaelic language, “banshee” is a female spirit and “reeks” refers to hills and dales.
The story goes that one night the farmer went into Leesburg to attend to personal business and also paid a visit to the local saloon.
Arriving back at his farm very late at night with the wind howling and the night animals making their noises, the farmer was in such a state of mind that he claimed he heard a banshee on the reeks.
The phrase was altered over the years and the area became known as Banshee Reeks.
The entity
Banshee Reeks is operated as a nature preserve by the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services. It is supported by the Friends of Banshee Reeks, a volunteer, nonprofit organization.
The preserve strives to protect the natural habitats and wildlife populations of Banshee Reeks; to conduct and coordinate ecological, historical and other scientific research; and to provide the public with an opportunity to enjoy and learn from this unique reserved area.
This property also is kept intrinsically dark and will be managed as a “Dark Sky Facility” for the benefit of both the environment and visitors.
As part of the Piedmont ecosystem, Banshee Reeks protects many different habitats: river bottom lands (riparian zones), successional fields and forests, ponds, mixed hardwood forests of oak and hickory, hedgerows and tree lines, meadows and wetlands.
Residents of the area include beaver, black bear, deer, foxes, bats and numerous species of birds, insects and plants.
The facilities
The Banshee Reeks property includes numerous buildings, both historic and contemporary. The Manor House contains the facility staff offices and is the temporary home of the visitor center and educational center. Also located on the property are a log cabin and bank barn that date to the 1830s.
Goose Creek, designated a State Scenic River, flows for more than two miles along the southern border of the property. Year-round programs and nature walks are offered to the public by members of wildlife organizations, teachers, conservancies and facility staff. A primitive camping area (Leave No Trace) is available for organized groups.
The rules
Take only pictures ... leave only footprints.
All animals and plants are protected at Banshee Reeks. Visitors are asked to follow these guidelines:
Please do not disturb the wildlife.
Walk only on marked trails.
Pets must be leashed at all times.
Bicycles or motorcycles are not permitted on any of the trails.
Banshee Reeks is a trash-free preserve.
Primitive camping (Leave No Trace) is by permit only.
Source: www.bansheereeks.org
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