A History of Rockbridge County, Virginia. Oren F. Morton. Paperback, (1920, 2007), 2020, 5½x8½, index, 608 pp.

This well-written and extremely detailed book contains everything you would ever want to know about Rockbridge County! Both the historical and the genealogical sections contain a wealth of material which is as interesting as it is informative. Part One is a general history beginning with the local geography and scenic features, including the beautiful natural bridge for which the county is named. Particular attention is given to the Scotch-Irish settlement of the area and the early pioneer days. Indian wars and captivities are also described, as are the effects of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars on the citizens of Rockbridge County. Cyrus McCormick, of McCormick Reaper fame, invented and constructed his machine at the forge on his father's farm in Rockbridge County. Family sketches round out this section. Part Two, the genealogical section, does not contain actual genealogies, but rather comprises many lists of names which will be of major interest to family researchers. These lists include land conveyances from 1741-1780, early patents, tithables of 1778, taxpayers of 1782 and 1841, militia officers prior to 1810, soldiers of the Revolution (with notes as to place and cause of death, rank, value of pension, etc.) and soldiers of the Civil War, including lists of casualties. All lists are in alphabetical order. The original index includes subjects and places. Illustrated with scenic photographs, portraits and historic homes. Originally published in 1920 and reprinted here in 1998, Illus., Index, as new, 574 pp.

Book #: M1026
ISBN: 9780788410260