Lexington, VA

Lexington, Virginia is a historic city located in the Shenandoah Valley region of the state. It was first settled in 1777 and officially established as a town in 1801. Its history is closely intertwined with the development of Virginia and the United States.

One of the most significant events in Lexington's early history was the establishment of Liberty Hall Academy in 1749. This was later renamed Washington College, and eventually became Washington and Lee University. The presence of the college brought intellectual and cultural influence to the town and has been a major part of Lexington's identity.

During the American Civil War, Lexington found itself at the center of several key events. The town was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces during different periods of the war. The most famous incident in Lexington's history occurred in 1864 when Confederate General Robert E. Lee, who was president of Washington College at the time, was approached by Union General Ulysses S. Grant. Grant requested Lee's surrender, which ultimately led to the end of the war.

Another notable aspect of Lexington's history is its connection to notable figures. Besides Robert E. Lee, Cyrus McCormick, the inventor of the mechanical reaper, was born and raised in Lexington. Stonewall Jackson, a Confederate general, also lived and taught at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in Lexington before the Civil War. Jackson’s house, “Stonewall” Jackson House, is now a historic site open to visitors.

Lexington is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The downtown area is particularly charming, featuring brick sidewalks and numerous historic structures. The Virginia Military Institute, founded in 1839, is another prominent institution that has shaped the town's history and culture.

Today, Lexington maintains its historical charm and is also known for its vibrant arts community. The city attracts tourists who are interested in exploring its rich history, visiting the various museums and historic sites, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Overall, the history of Lexington, VA is a testament to its significant role in Virginia and American history.

Virginia Military Institute (VMI)

A historic military college with a museum and campus tours.

Washington and Lee University

A prestigious liberal arts college with beautiful architecture and grounds.

Stonewall Jackson House

The former home of Confederate General Stonewall Jackson, now a museum showcasing his life and exhibits on the Civil War.

Natural Bridge State Park

A natural wonder formed by a limestone gorge, featuring a massive stone archway and hiking trails.

Cyrus McCormick Farm

The birthplace of the inventor of the mechanical reaper, now a museum showcasing his life and agricultural innovations.

Virginia Horse Center

A premier equestrian facility hosting horse shows, rodeos, and other equine events year-round.

George C. Marshall Museum

Dedicated to the life and career of General George C. Marshall, including his leadership during World War II and the Marshall Plan.

Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

A scenic area with a beautiful natural gorge, hiking trails, and opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and fishing.

Hull's Drive-In Theatre

A classic drive-in theater that shows current movies from spring through fall.

Lexington Carriage Company

Offering horse-drawn carriage tours of historic downtown Lexington.

These attractions provide a mix of historical, natural, educational, and cultural experiences for visitors to Lexington, VA.

The climate of Lexington, Virginia is considered to be humid subtropical. It experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.

In spring (March to May), temperatures gradually warm up from the cooler winter months. Average temperatures range from around 40°F (4°C) to 70°F (21°C), with occasional rainfall.

Summer (June to August) in Lexington is characterized by hot and humid weather. Average temperatures range from 60°F (16°C) to 90°F (32°C), with July being the warmest month. Precipitation increases during this season, and thunderstorms are common.

During the fall months (September to November), Lexington enjoys cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Average temperatures range from around 50°F (10°C) to 75°F (24°C), making it a pleasant season for outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February) in Lexington can be quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from 25°F (-4°C) to 45°F (7°C). Snowfall is common, and the region experiences occasional ice storms.

Overall, Lexington, VA has a moderate climate with defined seasonal changes. It offers a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy experiencing all four seasons.

Lexington, Virginia is a small city located in Rockbridge County. While it may not have numerous distinct neighborhoods like larger cities do, there are still a few areas worth noting within Lexington:

Downtown Lexington

The heart of the city, downtown Lexington is known for its historic charm and quaint atmosphere. It is home to many well-preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, local restaurants, and the iconic Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University campuses.

VMI Campus

Lexington is most recognized for being the home of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). VMI's campus, located in the southern part of the city, has a distinct character with its uniformed cadets, parade grounds, and historic buildings. The area surrounding the campus has a strong military influence and a close-knit community feel.

Washington and Lee Campus

Adjacent to VMI, Washington and Lee University (W&L) has its campus extending into Lexington. W&L is a prestigious liberal arts university, and its campus is characterized by beautiful Georgian-style buildings, spacious lawns, and a peaceful, academic atmosphere.

West Lexington

This residential area lies west of downtown Lexington and is known for its quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods. West Lexington is home to a mix of houses, ranging from historic Victorian homes to newer constructions. This area provides a more suburban setting, while still being close to downtown amenities.

East Lexington

Located east of downtown, this area is primarily residential, featuring a mix of apartments and single-family homes. It tends to be slightly more affordable than the west side and attracts families, young professionals, and students.

Maury River Road

Situated south of downtown, Maury River Road follows the Maury River and offers scenic beauty with its riverside homes and wooded areas. This area is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

While these areas may not have official names or distinct boundaries, they provide a general sense of the different parts of Lexington and their unique characteristics. Overall, Lexington is a charming city known for its historic landmarks, vibrant college community, and picturesque surroundings.