Hillsville, VA

Hillsville is a small town located in southwest Virginia, United States. Its history dates back to the mid-18th century when European settlers began to migrate to the region.

The area where Hillsville is now located was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee. These indigenous peoples used the land for hunting and agriculture.

In the late 1700s, European settlers arrived and began establishing farms in the region. Hillsville was formally established in 1828 as the seat of Carroll County, which was named after Charles Carroll, a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence.

Throughout the 19th century, Hillsville and Carroll County developed as primarily agricultural communities. The town grew slowly, primarily serving as a center for local farming and trading.

One significant historical event that shaped Hillsville's history was the Hillsville Courthouse shootout in 1912. During a court session, a dispute between members of two local families escalated into a gunfight that left several people dead, including the county sheriff. This event gained national attention and resulted in significant changes to the judicial system in Virginia.

In the early 20th century, Hillsville experienced economic growth with the arrival of the railroad, which connected the town to larger cities and allowed for the transportation of goods and people. The expansion of road networks further facilitated the development of Hillsville as a regional hub.

Over the years, Hillsville has seen modernization and diversification of its economy. It has become known for its annual Labor Day Flea Market and Gun Show, attracting visitors from across the region. The town remains a center for agriculture, with farming and livestock playing a vital role in the local economy.

Today, Hillsville continues to preserve its historical charm and character. The town has a small, close-knit community, and its historic downtown district is home to various shops, restaurants, and landmarks that reflect its rich past.

The Old Hillsville Courthouse

This historic courthouse is home to the annual Labor Day Gun Show and Flea Market, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Carroll County Historical Museum

Located in the historic Carroll County Courthouse, this museum showcases the history and heritage of the area through exhibits and artifacts.

Blue Ridge Parkway

This scenic roadway offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.

Southwest Virginia Farmer's Market

This bustling market features locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and a variety of food vendors.

Blue Ridge Music Center

Located just outside of Hillsville, this center celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains with live performances, exhibits, and educational programs.

Twin County Regional Airport

Aviation enthusiasts can visit this airport to watch planes take off and land, or even book a scenic flight over the area.

Beaver Dam Creek Walking Trail

This peaceful trail offers a relaxing stroll through nature, complete with bridges, benches, and beautiful views of the creek.

Town Park

Hillsville's park offers a playground, walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond for outdoor recreation.

Dixie Caverns

Just a short drive from Hillsville, these underground caves offer guided tours to explore the stunning rock formations and learn about the cave's history.

Chestnut Creek Historic District

This district features several restored historic buildings, including the 1913 Paxton Building and the McCarthy Building, offering a glimpse into the town's past.

Hillsville, VA, experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Hillsville are usually warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s°F (around 16°C) at night to the high 80s°F (around 31°C) during the day. It is not uncommon for temperatures to occasionally reach the 90s°F (above 32°C) during hot spells.

Winters in Hillsville are relatively mild, though cold. Average temperatures range from the low 20s°F (around -6°C) at night to the low 40s°F (around 4°C) during the day. Snowfall is common during the winter months, but the amount varies from year to year. The area typically sees around 20-30 inches (50-75 cm) of snow per year.

Spring and fall in Hillsville tend to be mild and pleasant. Spring brings comfortable temperatures, with average highs in the 60s°F (around 16°C) and 70s°F (around 21°C). Fall is cool and crisp, with average highs in the 60s°F (around 16°C) and 70s°F (around 21°C) as well.

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more rainfall occurring during the summer months. On average, Hillsville receives around 40-45 inches (101-114 cm) of precipitation per year. The area is also prone to thunderstorms, particularly during the summer, which can occasionally bring heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds.

Overall, Hillsville, VA, has a climate that experiences distinct seasons, with warm and humid summers, mild winters with occasional snowfall, and pleasant springs and falls.

Hillsville is a small town located in Carroll County, Virginia. While it may not have numerous distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few notable areas within Hillsville:

Downtown Hillsville

The heart of the town, downtown Hillsville is characterized by its historic buildings, charming shops, and restaurants. It is also home to the Carroll County Courthouse and hosts various events, including the famous Hillsville Flea Market and Gun Show.

Laurel Fork

Located just north of downtown Hillsville, Laurel Fork is a community surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. It offers a peaceful rural atmosphere, with many residential properties nestled among the rolling hills.

Fancy Gap

Sitting at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, Fancy Gap is a small mountain community in close proximity to Hillsville. It is renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is often a preferred destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers and nature lovers.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Although not technically a neighborhood within Hillsville, the Blue Ridge Parkway deserves mention as it runs just west of the town. Visitors can access the Parkway from Hillsville and enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and overlooks showcasing the region's natural beauty.

These are just a few of the notable areas within and around Hillsville, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Overall, Hillsville is a close-knit community where residents take pride in their town's history and scenic surroundings.