Mission

Since 1939, the mission of the Rockbridge Historical Society has been to preserve and to promote these local histories through public programs and educational outreach; through its stewardship of artifacts and archives; and through decades of publications and partnerships in historic preservation.

Browse the resources here to newly discover the evolution of Rockbridge’s social, family, and cultural histories. Appreciate more fully what our Society does to keep that heritage alive.  And learn how your interests in our local history can support our efforts to help the Past educate the Present.

History

Rockbridge has long held a strong sense of place, and a distinct touch of history, for both residents and visitors. Since the earliest settlements along the Valley Road in the mid-1700s, a range of local communities have clustered at the County’s crossroads of agriculture and industry.  Over time, the people of Rockbridge have invested their time and treasure in the growth of education and evolving commercial opportunities.  Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Alleghenies, and anchored by its namesake marvel Natural Bridge, Rockbridge continues to provide meaningful and immediate bridges between its inviting natural terrain, and rich social histories.

Along with the churches and country schools that have served the area through the 19th and 20th centuries, Lexington, Buena Vista, and the County have successively benefitted from the influence of Washington & Lee University, Virginia Military Institute, Southern Seminary, Southern Virginia University, and Dabney S. Lancaster Community College.  Greater Rockbridge’s distinct cultural mix has depended from the start on the traditions, perspectives and skills brought to this crossroads by new regional, national, and international residents. In the 18th century, Scots-Irish immigrants to the Shenandoah Valley settled lands here where indigenous peoples had lived here for millennia. The growth of agricultural and industrial slavery in the 19th century would be replaced by new labor patterns and social habits that evolved through Emancipation, Jim Crow, and the Civil Rights era. The arrival of railroads, broadening commercial networks, and the ‘Boom’ of new cities like Buena Vista paced economic conditions and the rhythms of everyday life into the modern currents of the 20th century

A deep appreciation for local history and genealogy has also been duly sustained by families who’ve continued to live here, or return to their roots, for generations.  Together, they’ve lived and worked in Rockbridge for generations, served in its armies over nearly four centuries of war, cared for its land and its landscapes, and contributed to a remarkable cultural legacy within this neck of the Old Dominion.

For a more extended survey of these local histories, visit our online Shop to purchase a copy of RHS’ well-illustrated landmark County History, “Remarkable Rockbridge,” or some of the historic maps that trace the County’s growth.

RHS Staff & Board

To send a message to the RHS Board, please write RHS@RockbridgeHistory.org

Washington and Lee Special Collections Library

Many of RHS’ rare papers, photographs, genealogical resources, and archives are securely housed, catalogued, and accessible at Washington and Lee University’s Special Collections Library.

For inquiries, call (540) 458-8663 or click HERE to access the online catalogue.

Local and State Partners

Click HERE for a list of links to our partner organizations, museums, and resources committed to the promotion of Rockbridge and Virginia histories.

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