Lexington, Buena Vista, & Rockbridge County
In the late 1700s, what is now Rockbridge County, Virginia, played a quiet yet formative role in the shaping of early American identity. Officially formed in 1778 during the Revolutionary War, Rockbridge County was carved from parts of Augusta and Botetourt counties and named for the Natural Bridge, a striking geological formation later owned by Thomas Jefferson. Settlers of Scots-Irish and German descent brought with them a strong sense of independence and Presbyterian religious traditions, establishing institutions and farms that would shape the county’s character for generations.
Lexington, founded in 1778, quickly became a regional hub. Its early churches, including Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church and the historic Lexington Presbyterian Church, stood at the heart of both spiritual and civic life. These congregations were not only religious centers but also gathering places for political discourse during and after the Revolution. Lexington became home to Augusta Academy, founded in 1749. Throughout its history, the institution has been known by several names – Liberty Hall Academy (1776), Washington Academy (1796), Washington College (1813), and finally Washington and Lee University (1870). W&L’s roots are tied to the post-Revolutionary ideals of education and leadership.
Buena Vista, though not formally established until later, shares in the region’s Revolutionary legacy through its connection to the Maury River and early transportation routes that supported local economies and militia movement.
Today, Rockbridge County honors its Revolutionary past through a rich array of historical sites and museums, such as the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Museum, Stonewall Jackson House, and the Rockbridge Historical Society. These sites preserve artifacts and stories from the 18th century onward.
As part of the VA250 commemoration, local organizers are planning a series of events leading up to 2026 and 2027. These include public lectures, a community history fair, and the “Bikecentennial” — highlighting both 18th-century trails and 20th-century celebrations. Steering and planning committees are actively forming, bringing together voices from tourism, education, recreation, and the arts to create inclusive, engaging programs that reflect the spirit of 1776 and the unique legacy of Rockbridge County.
This commemoration offers an opportunity not only to revisit the area’s Revolutionary roots, but to celebrate its ongoing commitment to civic life, culture, and community.
Thomas Jefferson's Birthday CelebrationJoin a community celebration of all things Jefferson and Natural Bridge with family-friendly activities along Cedar Creek trail. Natural Bridge State ... Read More
Double-Featuring Jefferson: RHS Series, "REVOLUTIONARY FILMS, 1776-2026"Free screening and discussion in the Rockbridge Historical Society's series, "Revolutionary Films, 1776-2026," focusing on Thomas Jefferson. Selected... Read More
Jefferson, Power, and America at 250Free lecture and rare book display by W&L Politics Professor Brian Alexander. Co-sponsored by the Rockbridge Historical Society, W&L University Librar... Read More
Freedom Food FestivalOn July 3, Main Street in downtown Lexington is converted into a community street and music festival featuring live music, beer/wine sales, desserts, ... Read More
Balloons Over RockbridgeJOIN US FOR AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY! Bring a chair or blanket to sit on and enjoy great bands, a variety of food and merchandise vendors, beer, ch... Read More
While there are currently no events listed specifically for , search the VA250 Statewide Calendar of Events for a comprehensive listing of programs across the state.
