WASHINGTON COUNTY

Formed in 1776, Washington County was the first locality in the nation to be named after the then Commander-in-Chief, George Washington (later President). The county encompassed all of Southwest Virginia in 1738. Several counties in Southwest Virginia were formed from Washington County after 1786.

The county has a long record of involvement in the politics and history of the state and nation. Three Washington County citizens have served as governor of Virginia. Many of the men who fought and died in 1780 at the Battle of Kings Mountain, SC — a key battle in the victory and end of the Revolutionary War — were from Washington County, VA. In 1862, a company of Confederate soldiers organized in Abingdon became a part of Company A of the Virginia Volunteers. The county sent more than 2,000 men to fight in the Civil War.

In 1901 the first Virginia –Carolina Steam locomotive reached Damascus making it possible for lumber companies to reap the benefits of the large forests. The lumber industry became a leading factor in the development of Washington County. The train route (which ran from Abingdon into Ashe County, NC) began as a Native American Footpath that was used by Daniel Boone in his early explorations. The railroad ceased operations in 1977. Today the Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail that traverses through some of the most picturesque scenery in the United States. A portion of the trail goes through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, which boasts the two highest peaks in Virginia.

The Appalachian Trail passes through Washington County and the town of Damascus. Washington County also has an abundance of superb outdoor recreational opportunities in addition to the Virginia Creeper Trail. Here you will find South Holston Lake, the Holston River, and some of the best trout fishing streams on the East Coast. There are dozens of hiking trails and horse trails in the area, too.

Washington County is the home of Virginia’s State theatre, the Barter Theatre, located in Abingdon’s historic district. Founded by Robert Porterfield during the Depression, the Barter Theatre’s repertoire covers classic as well as contemporary plays. Many well-known actors and actresses have been on the stage of the Barter Theatre. In addition to the Barter Theatre, there are theatrical productions and musical concerts at Emory & Henry College, regarded as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the United States.

Impromptu jam sessions occur throughout the county at country stores. The Virginia Highlands Festival, the Washington County Fair, the Highlands Jazz Festival, the Summer Concert Series in Abingdon, and other yearly events feature all types of music, from old-time and bluegrass to rock, jazz, and classical.

   History comes alive in Washington County at such places as White’s Mill, a vintage 1740 water-powered grist mill, or at the Fields-Penn 1860 House Museum. In Washington County you experience the true meaning of the word living. Our small towns and communities — such as Damascus, Glade Spring, Abingdon, Meadowview, Emory, Saltville, and Mendota — make up this diverse area. The county is rich in history, culture, art, music and southern hospitality. Visitors and residents can enjoy an array of activities that range from historical districts, unique shops, and numerous parks. Perhaps it’s best said…”We have it all in Washington County!”