The History of Bland County was compiled in 1961 and published to coincide with the 100th Anniversary of the formation of Bland County. Largely comprised of interesting anecdotes concerning early settlers, it is one of the most valuable secondary source available for researchers of Bland County Virginia ancestry. Free to read and download.
In “History of Bland County,” published by the Bland County Centennial Corporation in 1961, readers are invited to embark on a comprehensive journey through the rich tapestry of Bland County, Virginia’s past. This meticulously written manuscript offers an in-depth exploration of the county’s evolution from its earliest days of settlement to the mid-20th century. The opening chapters delve into the era of the white man’s arrival, highlighting significant events such as the Indian Massacre at Drapers Valley, the captivating story of Mrs. Mary Ingles’ capture and escape, and the pioneering spirit of the county’s first European settlers. Through narratives of hardship, resilience, and community building, these sections paint a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by early inhabitants.
Subsequent chapters chronicle the development of Bland County through the lens of its people, land, and culture. The detailed accounts of early explorations, pioneering families, and old homesteads offer readers a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the county’s destiny. Fascinating stories of families such as the Justices, the Wilsons, and the Neels, among others, provide a personal connection to the past, revealing the social fabric and familial lineages that have contributed to the county’s heritage.
The narrative continues with an exploration of Bland County’s civic and social institutions, including its churches, schools, and medical practitioners, highlighting the community’s growth and its commitment to education, healthcare, and spiritual life. The manuscript also pays homage to the county’s military history, detailing its participation in conflicts from the Civil War through to World Wars I and II, and honoring the valor and sacrifice of its veterans.
Further, the book addresses the economic and infrastructural development of Bland County, examining its agricultural history, the establishment of banks, the evolution of transportation and communication networks, and the impact of civic and fraternal organizations on the community’s progress. Each of these aspects is meticulously researched, providing a comprehensive overview of the county’s advancements over the years.
Thank you so much for providing the History of Bland Co, VA – My ancestor Casper Barrier (Barger) was one of the victims at Draper’s Meadow. He immigrated from Germany ca 1730 and ended up in Virginia – Since I don’t drive I can’t get out to do research like I was able to when I started in 1968.
Delores Raines – Salem, OR
Thank you so much for providing the History of Bland Co, VA – My ancestor Casper Barrier (Barger) was one of the victims at Draper’s Meadow. He immigrated from Germany ca 1730 and ended up in Virginia – Since I don’t drive I can’t get out to do research like I was able to when I started in 1968.
Delores Raines – Salem, OR