National Register Listing

Monterey High School

a.k.a. Highland High School; Monterey Elementary School; Highland Elementary School; Highland Center; VDHR 262-0082

Spruce St., 0.5 mi. S of US 250, Monterey, VA
Local significance of the building:
Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

education
Jamestown, Virginia, was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. It was founded in 1607 and served as the capital of Virginia until 1699.
Virginia random facts
Highland County, Virginia, located in the Allegheny Mountains, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Cherokee and Shawnee. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with Scotch-Irish and German immigrants establishing homesteads and farms during the expansion of the frontier.

In 1847, Highland County was officially formed from parts of Bath and Pendleton counties, becoming Virginia's newest county. The name "Highland" was chosen due to the elevated terrain and mountainous landscape that characterizes the region. The county's population grew steadily in the following decades, with agriculture and timber becoming major industries.

During the American Civil War, Highland County found itself divided between Confederate sympathizers and Union loyalists, causing tensions and conflicts within the community. However, the county ultimately had a minor role in the war due to its isolated location.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the arrival of the railroad brought economic development to Highland County. The timber industry flourished, with vast quantities of lumber being transported to nearby mills. Rail transportation also allowed for the growth of tourism, as visitors discovered the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the county has to offer.

Today, Highland County is a small, rural community with a population deeply connected to its agricultural roots. It is known for its pastoral landscapes, picturesque towns, and outdoor recreation such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The county's history is honored and preserved through various museums, historical sites, and events, providing visitors with a glimpse into its rich past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Highland County, Virginia.

  • 1738 - Highland County was formed as a part of Augusta County, Virginia.
  • 1774 - Augusta County was divided, and Highland County became a part of Botetourt County.
  • 1821 - Highland County was officially established as an independent county in Virginia.
  • 1835 - The first courthouse was built in the town of Monterey, which became the county seat.
  • 1850 - The population of Highland County reached its peak at around 6,500.
  • 1861-1865 - Highland County residents participated in the American Civil War on both the Union and Confederate sides.
  • 1893 - The Highland Inn, a historic hotel, was built in Monterey and became a popular tourist destination.
  • 1901 - The Highland Recorder, a local newspaper, began publication in Monterey.
  • 1940s - The construction of the Monterey Fish Hatchery brought industry and jobs to the area.
  • 1979 - Highland County was designated as "Virginia's Little Switzerland" due to its mountainous terrain and scenic beauty.
  • 1995 - The Highland County Historical Society was founded to preserve and promote the county's history.