Wythe County was formed from Montgomery County in 1790. It was named after George Wythe, the first Virginian signer of the Declaration of Independence. During the Civil War the Battle of Cove Mountain was fought in the county.
From the lead mines to militia leaders, this region played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. The Fincastle Resolution of 1775 echoed the same sentiment as the declaration of Independence; both striving for political liberties. Local leaders such as William Campbell and Walter Crockett and their Virginian Overmountain men defeated British officer Patrick Ferguson and his Tory forces at the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780. In addition to hostilities between the crown and colonists, there were hostilities between colonists. Tories, loyal to England, were at odds with those who were not. This animosity was reciprocal and led to conflicts between fellow colonists; sometimes resulting in vigilante justice at the end of a rope.
The Revolutionary Roots of Southwest Virginia Project
Exhibit
This exhibit will focus on the events that took place locally and the locals whose actions had an impact globally.
Educational programs
In service programs at the schools and on-site field trips to the homestead museum site focusing on students in Wythe, Pulaski, and Smyth counties.
Events
Reenactment of the Fincastle Resolution
Revolutionary war, Overmountain men reenacting camp life as part of our educational programs for students and the public.
While there are currently no events listed specifically for Wythe County, search the VA250 Statewide Calendar of Events for a comprehensive listing of programs across the state.
