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Virginia is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because eight U.S. presidents were born there. Additionally, two more presidents, William Henry Harrison and Zachary Taylor, were born in what is now Virginia before it became a state.
About Augusta County
Augusta County Timeline
Augusta County, located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 18th century. Established in 1738, it was one of the original counties in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Siouan-speaking Monacan people, before European settlers arrived.
During the colonial era, Augusta County was at the forefront of westward expansion. It served as a gateway for settlers moving westward across the Appalachian Mountains into the Ohio Valley and beyond. The county played a significant role in shaping the American frontier, as numerous pioneers, including Daniel Boone, began their journeys from Augusta County to explore and settle new lands.
The county also witnessed the hardships and turmoil of the American Revolution. Many Augusta County residents actively participated in the war, with local militias assisting in the defense of their communities. The Battle of Lexington, one of the first battles of the Revolution, occurred in what is now Rockbridge County but was part of Augusta County at the time.
In the decades that followed, Augusta County continued to grow and evolve. It became a major agricultural center, with farming and livestock production being the primary economic activities. The construction of transportation infrastructure, such as the Valley Turnpike (now U.S. Route 11), further facilitated trade and the movement of people.
Today, Augusta County remains a vibrant and thriving community, blending its historical roots with modern developments. It is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and agricultural traditions. The county is home to diverse industries, including farming, manufacturing, and tourism, attracting visitors from far and wide to explore its historical sites, natural wonders, and charming small towns.
During the colonial era, Augusta County was at the forefront of westward expansion. It served as a gateway for settlers moving westward across the Appalachian Mountains into the Ohio Valley and beyond. The county played a significant role in shaping the American frontier, as numerous pioneers, including Daniel Boone, began their journeys from Augusta County to explore and settle new lands.
The county also witnessed the hardships and turmoil of the American Revolution. Many Augusta County residents actively participated in the war, with local militias assisting in the defense of their communities. The Battle of Lexington, one of the first battles of the Revolution, occurred in what is now Rockbridge County but was part of Augusta County at the time.
In the decades that followed, Augusta County continued to grow and evolve. It became a major agricultural center, with farming and livestock production being the primary economic activities. The construction of transportation infrastructure, such as the Valley Turnpike (now U.S. Route 11), further facilitated trade and the movement of people.
Today, Augusta County remains a vibrant and thriving community, blending its historical roots with modern developments. It is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and agricultural traditions. The county is home to diverse industries, including farming, manufacturing, and tourism, attracting visitors from far and wide to explore its historical sites, natural wonders, and charming small towns.
Augusta County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Augusta County, Virginia.
- 1738 - Augusta County is formed from Orange County.
- 1745 - Court held at Staunton for the first time.
- 1754 - Fort Dinwiddie built to protect settlers during the French and Indian War.
- 1777 - The town of Waynesboro is established.
- 1784 - Augusta Academy, later known as Washington College and now Washington and Lee University, is founded in Lexington.
- 1790 - Augusta County's population reaches over 17,000.
- 1834 - Railroad reaches Staunton, bringing economic growth.
- 1861-1865 - Augusta County is heavily impacted during the American Civil War.
- 1883 - Western State Hospital, a psychiatric hospital, opens in Staunton.
- 1890 - First hydroelectric power station in the world is opened at the Augusta County town of Millboro Springs.
- 1927 - The Natural Bridge is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
- 1962 - Blue Ridge Community College is established in Weyers Cave.