Botetourt County

Images of America: Virginia

by Debra Alderson McClane

Named for a Colonial governor and created in 1770 from Augusta County, Botetourt County lies in the southern end of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. At the time of its establishment, Botetourt's boundaries stretched westward from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. This area now encompasses 23 counties in Virginia as well as portions of West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Located at the fork of the Great Valley Road and the Wilderness Road, Botetourt served as the last outpost for many settlers moving into the western territories. Settled predominantly by Scots-Irish, German, and English immigrants, the county still reflects the influences of these strong cultures, and many original family names remain prominent. Botetourt is known for its agricultural production, as well as its natural resources: over the centuries, visitors have been drawn to the area's scenic beauty, healing springs, and trout-filled streams. This volume contains images of the towns, farms, homes, industries, people, events, and institutions that have contributed to the rich tapestry of the county's history.

128 pages, Paperback

First published February 7, 2007

Reviews

[Stacy Deyerle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have learned much about my home county, and even had a request from someone for a copy of this for Christmas once they saw my copy.
There was a big resort in Blue Ridge? Wow. Missed that one.
Still, I am disappointed that the focus seems to be on the other side of the county (Fincastle, Buchanan) more than the Blue Ridge area.