The Old Potomac Path began as an Indian trail used by early settlers, later became the first coach and post road between the Northern and Southern Colonies, and was known as The King’s Highway. General Washington often stopped here to visit Colonel Blackburn. Colonial and French officers and troops also passed this way at the time of the Battle of Yorktown. The old road extends for about three miles through Rippon Lodge, where it has been preserved by Wade H. Ellis, present owner of the property.