Oakwood Post

Oakwood Post. . , Oakwood post, established in 1835 by Major Joseph R. Brown for the American Fur Company, was an early trading post in Brown County. French explorers called it “place of the scrub oaks,” a landmark used by Indians and Whites alike. Pierre Le Blanc, the first trader, was killed after cruel treatment of a starving Indian gathering corn from the cracks in the Post floor in the severe winter of 1836. The original cabin burned and was rebuilt in 1838 by Major Brown. Francis Raundelle (Rondell) expanded the post during his 9-year tenure (1842-51) as manager. Chief Drifting Goose made this area his camping ground. Following the influx of white settlers in 1879, James Humphrey built a store, and Rondell became a popular spot for picnics, community gatherings and celebrations. Rondell post office opened in 1880 and closed in 1902. The store closed in 1915. In 1933, the Aberdeen Daughters of the American Revolution placed the bronze tablet on a boulder at this memorable spot. It tells the story of the rich fur trade and heritage of the pioneers. , Erected in 1990, by the Rondell Sunshine Circle of the International Order of the Kings Daughters and Sons to rededicate the Oakwood historic area to the memory and spirit of both Indians and homesteaders who loved the Rondell area and the James River.