Historical Markers in
Patrick County, Virginia

Blue Ridge Mission School Buffalo Mountain Colonel Abram Penn Elizabeth Stuart's Boxwoods Fairy Stone State Park Finding William Letcher's Home Floyd County / Patrick County Frontier Fort Historic Roadbed House Site Laurel Hill Laurel Hill Laurel Hill Life after William Letcher Meadows of Dan Native Americans At Laurel Hill Patrick County / North Carolina Patrick County Virginia / North Carolina Reynolds Homestead Rock Castle Gorge Stuart Stuart Well Stuart's Birthplace The Dellenback Family The Grave of William Letcher The Letcher Overlook The Reynolds Homestead The Slave Graveyard The Stuart Graveyard The Stuart Kitchen The William Letcher Grave The "Lee" Tree William A. Mitchell Family William Byrd’s Survey of 1728 William Letcher You Buy 'Em, We'll Fly 'Em! "Fields Of Valor" "Flora and Jeb" "Stuart the Commander" "Stuart the Leader" "Stuart the Raider" "Stuart the Scout"
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Patrick County, Virginia, located in the southwestern part of the state, has a rich and varied history that dates back to pre-European settlement. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Cherokee and the Siouan-speaking Saura. The region became known as Patrick County in 1791, named after American Revolutionary War patriot Patrick Henry.

During the colonial era, European settlers began to establish farms and homesteads in Patrick County. The county played an important role during the American Revolution, with many local residents actively participating in the fight for independence. The area also saw its fair share of skirmishes and raids by both British troops and Native American tribes who were aligned with them.

In the 19th century, agriculture became the backbone of Patrick County's economy, with tobacco and corn being the primary crops. The construction of railroads in the late 1800s connected the county to larger markets, stimulating growth and attracting new industries. Textile mills and furniture factories sprang up, providing employment opportunities for the local population.

In the 20th century, Patrick County experienced ups and downs due to economic fluctuations. The decline of the textile industry had a significant impact, but the county adapted and diversified its economy. Today, agriculture remains an important sector, with tobacco, cattle, and poultry farming being prominent. Patrick County has also embraced tourism as a key economic driver, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich history.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Patrick County, Virginia.

  • 1767 - Patrick County, Virginia was formed from parts of Halifax County and Henry County.
  • 1791 - The county's seat was established and named Patrick Courthouse.
  • 1843 - The community of Patrick Courthouse was incorporated and renamed Stuart, in honor of John Stuart, a Revolutionary War officer.
  • 1861-1865 - Patrick County residents served in the American Civil War on both sides.
  • 1890 - The Danville and Western Railway reached Stuart, bringing transportation and economic development to the area.
  • 1932 - Fairy Stone State Park was established, known for its unique "fairy stones" that are believed to bring good luck.
  • 1963 - The Blue Ridge Parkway was completed, passing through Patrick County and attracting tourism to the region.
  • 1998 - The Reynolds Homestead, the former residence of tobacco manufacturer R.J. Reynolds, was donated to Virginia Tech and became a cultural and educational center.