James River Hikers Expands From Solo Walks To 5,000 Member Organization

Dennis Bussey sought a hiking companion and eventually built a 5,000 member organization.

Bussey, who resides in Lexington, Virginia, established James River Hikers after walking the river alone for 18 months. The group describes its mission as hiking with history. He searched online for partners, and the initial gathering four years ago attracted approximately seven participants. The membership has grown since then to include thousands of individuals across the region.

The organization engages members in multiple activities beyond trail walking. Bussey stated that the group participates in hikes, historical tours, and social events. These varied programming options help maintain engagement among the large membership base.

A central operational focus for the group involves volunteer labor at Shockoe Hill Cemetery in Richmond. The site serves as the burial ground for notable Virginia figures, including James Marshall, the nation’s fourth chief justice. It is also the final resting place for Elizabeth Van Lew, a Civil War Union spy and abolitionist, and Dr. William Foushee, the city’s first mayor. The group received permission from the city to begin maintenance work on the grounds.

Financial sustainability relies on external funding streams. Volunteers meet at the cemetery twice a month to scrub headstones. Bussey noted that the project requires substantial capital. Without donations and grants, the organization could not cover the costs of the restoration work. He emphasized the need to honor the deceased properly, describing the effort as a mutual benefit for all parties involved.

The restoration process has addressed long neglected stones. When the group began operations, many markers were illegible. Bussey pointed out that Foushee’s headstone, placed 201 years ago, was completely black before cleaning. The team has conducted 65 cleaning sessions at the site. They estimate that they have restored approximately 70 percent of all stones in the cemetery.