Western Virginia is the most distinctive geological feature in the state. Two rows of mountains, part of the great Appalachian chain, extend in a northeasterly to southwesterly direction, divided by a wide valley. The area has incredible beauty. The Indians worshipped the Shenandoah Valley as "the daughter of the stars." The Blue Ridge Mountains have a distinctive haze that inspired their unusual name, and there are spectacular physical features--Natural Bridge, Natural Chimneys, Goshen Pass, and many caverns.
Western Virginia was settled earlier than might have been expected. As soon as the Jamestown settlement matured, inquisitive men wondered what lay beyond the forests to the west, and they explored the mountains and settled in the valley. Tidewater men reached the valley first, but they were soon joined by settlers from Pennsylvania (Scotch-Irish Presbyterians and German Lutherans) who differed in thoughts and desires from the Tidewater Anglicans. All of them were equal to the hard life imposed on them by nature and the Indians alike.
Western Virginia can be divided into two sections: the mountains and valley and the Great Southwest. The scenery and utility of both have attracted a new breed of immigrants--tourists--who are interested in the outdoor experience, but appreciate the historic significance of the area. Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway afford a stunning view of the mountains and the valley, and the Appalachian Trail offers a much slower version of the same experience. Visitors can relax in the peaceful setting of the George Washington National Forest or Shenandoah National Park, enjoy the spa at the Homestead at Hot Springs, or take advantage of the ski resorts made possible by snow-making machines.
|
Tidewater Virginia
