Outside the Town of Mineral in Louisa County, The Lion’s Den restaurant is a must-visit destination for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With a legacy that spans nearly two centuries, the story behind the location of this new eatery includes railroads, community, and good food. From its roots in the age of railroads to its resilience, the “Harris-Poindexter Store” stands as a reminder to the location’s importance to the area.
The Story Begins
The foundation for what would eventually become the “Harris-Poindexter Store” was laid in 1831. Built by Frederick Harris Jr., a key figure in the development of the Louisa Railroad and its first president, the store quickly became a central hub for local life. Farmers, travelers, and townsfolk alike gathered there, making it an essential part of the community. The issuance of its first spirits license in 1839 further cemented its role as a prominent social and cultural meeting place.
Rebuilding After the Civil War
During the Civil War, the Harris-Poindexter Store endured significant hardship. In 1863, Major General George Stoneman led a raid that destroyed the railroad and telegraph lines in Fredericks Hall, disrupting vital communication and transportation networks. The devastation continued in 1864 when Colonel Ulric Dahlgren’s forces set fire to the store, reducing it to ashes. Despite these challenges, the community’s determination shone through, and the property was rebuilt in 1865 under the leadership of Peyton Talley. In the years following the war, the store flourished as a center of commerce, passing through the hands of Nathaniel Harris and later Emmett Poindexter, both of whom played a crucial role in maintaining its significance within the community.
A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
In 2001, the building was lovingly restored by Melody and Kenny Bowers, earning it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. For over two decades, it was operated as “Tavern on the Rail,” a dining and event venue that blended historical ambiance with modern hospitality.
In late 2024, Melody Bowers passed the torch to Rosalino Taormina, and in February 2025, the restaurant was reimagined as “The Lions Den 1837,” blending the rich history of the Harris-Poindexter store with a new culinary vision. (Bowers is now focusing on the adjacent Tavern on the Rail Event Venue & Catering.)
The Story Behind the Name: The Lions Den
The name “The Lions Den” is rooted in a profound personal journey for Taormina—one that intertwines the rich history of the Harris-Poindexter Store with the legacy of the Taormina family. The new owner discovered a deep ancestral connection: five generations of Leos, beginning with his great-grandfather from Italy. And as fate would have it, upon entering the building, he noticed a large lion’s head statue mounted on the wall, as though it had been guarding the space for centuries. It was a sign that history was waiting to be honored in a new way. Thus, “The Lions Den” was born, bridging past and present in an unforgettable dining experience.
More Than Just a Restaurant
Beyond the new restaurant delicious offerings, its location has played a pivotal role in the local community. We invite you to join us in celebrating this new chapter in the Harris-Poindexter Store’s story.