History of Bedford County, Virginia

Bedford County, Virginia, is a region with a rich historical legacy that dates back to colonial times. Situated in the western part of the state, the county is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and is steeped in both early American history and the natural beauty of Virginia’s landscapes. Bedford played a significant role during the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the westward expansion of the United States. Known for its agricultural roots, Bedford has maintained its historic charm and offers a wealth of historical sites and landmarks for visitors to explore today.

History of Bedford County, Virginia

Origins and Early History

Native American Inhabitants

Before European settlers arrived, the area that is now Bedford County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Monacan and Powhatan peoples. These Indigenous groups lived in the fertile valleys and along the rivers of Virginia, where they hunted, fished, and gathered wild foods. The Monacan people, part of the larger Siouan-speaking group, lived in what is now central Virginia and occupied lands stretching along the James River and its tributaries.

The Monacans and Powhatans had long-established villages and were skilled in agriculture, hunting, and craftsmanship. They traded goods and interacted with other tribes across Virginia, but their lives were disrupted after the arrival of English settlers in the early 1600s. European colonization led to conflict, displacement, and a decline in the native population, particularly after the establishment of Jamestown in 1607 and subsequent land settlements in Virginia.

Colonial Settlement and Formation of Bedford County

English settlers began to move into what is now Bedford County in the 1700s, attracted by the fertile land and favorable climate for agriculture. The early settlers were primarily English, Scots-Irish, and Germans, and they established farms, homesteads, and small communities in the region. The county was originally part of the larger Albemarle County before it was established as Bedford County in 1754.

Bedford County was named in honor of the Duke of Bedford, a British statesman and member of the royal family. The area became a significant site for agriculture, primarily growing tobacco and later shifting to wheat, corn, and livestock. As settlers moved westward, Bedford’s location on the frontier made it an important center for trade, commerce, and military defense.

The American Revolution

During the American Revolution, Bedford County played a crucial role as a supply center and a recruiting ground for soldiers. The county was home to several patriots who contributed to the war effort, including John Lynch, a notable Revolutionary War figure who went on to become a founding father of the state. The county’s proximity to the western frontier made it a strategic area for the movement of troops and supplies, particularly as Virginia’s western settlements were threatened by Native American attacks and British forces during the war.

Bedford was also significant as a location for militia training and recruitment. With the increasing demand for troops, many of Bedford’s men enlisted to fight for the Continental Army, serving in various campaigns in Virginia and beyond. The county’s commitment to the revolution earned it a lasting place in Virginia’s Revolutionary history.

Key Historical Events

The War of 1812

The War of 1812 had a profound impact on Bedford County, though it did not witness significant military action. The county’s residents, like much of the early United States, were divided in their support of the war. Many, particularly those with strong agrarian interests, opposed the conflict, believing it would damage trade and hurt agricultural production. However, some of Bedford’s men fought alongside the American forces in various battles, contributing to the eventual defeat of the British.

In the aftermath of the War of 1812, Bedford County’s economy began to shift more toward industrialization. It saw the rise of mills and small factories along the rivers, and the demand for agricultural goods continued to grow. The expansion of the nation’s infrastructure, including the construction of roads and canals, further enhanced Bedford’s role as a commercial hub in southwestern Virginia.

The Civil War (1861-1865)

The Civil War was perhaps the most defining event in Bedford County’s history. Virginia was a divided state, and Bedford was no exception. While the county was predominantly pro-Confederate, it contained a significant Unionist sentiment, especially in its mountainous regions. Bedford’s geographical location made it a key site for both Union and Confederate forces as they maneuvered in western Virginia. The county was home to several skirmishes and saw the deployment of troops on both sides.

One of the most notable events was the Battle of Lynchburg, fought in June 1864, which took place just east of Bedford. This battle was part of the larger Union campaign to cut off the Confederate supply lines. Although the battle ended in a Confederate victory, the larger effects of the war were felt deeply in Bedford County, with the loss of life and the devastation of its agricultural economy. Bedford’s residents were split in their loyalties, leading to tensions in the community.

Another significant contribution of Bedford County during the Civil War was the involvement of the Bedford Boys, a group of young men from the county who fought in World War I. They became emblematic of the sacrifices made by small towns across America during the conflict, and their bravery was later memorialized in various monuments.

Post-Civil War Development

In the aftermath of the Civil War, Bedford County, like much of the South, faced immense challenges in rebuilding its economy and society. The destruction of infrastructure, loss of enslaved labor, and the shift to a more diversified economy made the postwar period difficult for many residents. However, the county slowly began to recover through the expansion of its agricultural base, including the cultivation of tobacco, corn, and small grains.

The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped to stimulate economic growth and increase Bedford’s role in regional commerce. The construction of the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad through the county helped transport goods and agricultural products to larger markets. By the early 20th century, Bedford was becoming a hub for regional trade and industry.

Historical Sites

1. National D-Day Memorial

Overview and Location

Located in Bedford, the National D-Day Memorial commemorates the courageous actions of the “Bedford Boys” and all those who participated in the D-Day invasion during World War II. The memorial honors the soldiers who stormed the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944, including the 19 men from Bedford who died that day. The memorial features a large series of exhibits, statues, and historical markers, making it one of the most significant landmarks in Bedford County.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

  • Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12, free for children under 6
  • Parking: Free parking is available on-site.

2. Bedford County Courthouse

Overview and Location

The Bedford County Courthouse, built in 1840, is a prime example of early American architecture and a significant historical landmark in the town of Bedford. The courthouse has seen numerous important legal proceedings over the years and stands as a symbol of the county’s enduring heritage. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Free parking is available in public lots near the courthouse.

3. The Peaks of Otter

Overview and Location

The Peaks of Otter, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a stunning natural site that has been historically significant to the Native Americans and early settlers of Bedford County. It served as a key location for travelers along the Appalachian Trail and offers beautiful views, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Peaks of Otter is also home to the historic Johnson Farm, which is now preserved as a museum.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

  • Admission: Free
  • Parking: Free parking is available at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center.

4. Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

Overview and Location

While not located within Bedford County, Appomattox Court House is close enough to be a key historical site for residents of the area. This is the site where General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant of the Union Army, marking the end of the Civil War. Visitors can explore the preserved courthouse, the McLean House, and various other buildings that played a pivotal role in the conclusion of the conflict.

Ticket Price and Parking Information

  • Admission: $5 for adults, free for children under 16
  • Parking: Free parking available on-site.

County Facts

Geography and Climate

Bedford County is located in the western part of Virginia, nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Piedmont Plateau. The county has a diverse geography, with rugged mountain terrain, fertile valleys, and river systems, including the James River and its tributaries. The county’s abundant forests and waterways provide rich natural resources and offer residents and visitors alike plenty of recreational opportunities.

The climate of Bedford County is classified as humid subtropical, with warm summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C), while winter temperatures can dip into the low 30s°F (0°C to 5°C), with occasional snowfall.

Key County Facts

  • Year Founded: 1754
  • County Seat: Bedford
  • Population: Approximately 68,000 (2020 Census)
  • Population Density: 111.6 people per square mile
  • Largest Cities: Bedford, Forest, Montvale, Big Island
  • Major Highways: U.S. Route 460, U.S. Route 29, State Route 122
  • Adjacent Counties: Campbell County, Franklin County, Pittsylvania County, Amherst County, Botetourt County