Botetourt County


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About

Botetourt County is one of Virginia’s most scenic and historically significant counties. It is filled with rolling hills, miles of hiking trails including the Appalachian Trail, scenic rivers and streams, historic towns and beautiful countryside all within majestic mountain backdrops.

Established in 1770, Botetourt County in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is rich with history and heritage. During the early days of American history, the county line extended all the way to the Mississippi River and included all or part of seven present-day states! The Town of Fincastle was incorporated in 1772 and is still the county seat and home to the county courthouse, which remains a popular spot for visitors in search of genealogical information.

The Town of Fincastle features many structures that date back to the late 1770s and you can learn more about these classic buildings by taking part in the self-guided and guided tour options provided by Historic Fincastle, Inc. The tour includes information about how Fincastle is a nationally recognized Lewis & Clark Community, as well as the opportunity to see documents signed by Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other historical figures.

Botetourt County also includes the Town of Buchanan, which served as a major crossroads with its iconic Swinging Bridge and canal & locks system for navigating the James River. The town’s charming Main Street includes a historic movie theater, town park, classic soda fountain, local shops and outdoor outfitter.

The Town of Troutville also served as an important shipping center in the 1890s and thrived with an active farming community, canneries, and factories.
Visit the Botetourt County Historical Museum to learn more about the history of the county. You can also learn more at https://www.botetourtva.gov/333/History

Local Events

Free Community Concert - KINNFOLKFree Community Concert - KINNFOLK
February 26, 2026 - February 26, 2026
Botetourt County

Fincastle Presbyterian Church invites the community to enjoy an evening of beautiful music on Thursday, February 26, 7 - 9 PM. Music will be provided ... Read More

Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912
March 03, 2026 - March 03, 2026
Botetourt County

Learn how to locate a date of death between 1896 - 1912 in this genealogy workshop. Presented by Rena Worthen, Library Genealogist.... Read More

Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912
March 03, 2026 - March 03, 2026
Botetourt County

Learn how to locate a date of death between 1896 - 1912 in this genealogy workshop. Presented by Rena Worthen, Library Genealogist.... Read More

VA250 Book Club: West of Santillane Book Discussion and Author VisitVA250 Book Club: West of Santillane Book Discussion and Author Visit
March 16, 2026 - February 16, 2026
Botetourt County

Celebrate the founding of our nation with stories of the Revolutionary War. Join author Brook Allen for a 30-minute presentation followed by discussio... Read More

Deciphering Codes in Death CertificatesDeciphering Codes in Death Certificates
March 19, 2026 - March 19, 2026
Botetourt County

Learn how to read death certificates, from red number codes to doctors' handwriting, as you explore your family's history. Presented by Rena Worthen, ... Read More

" Native Medicinal Plants of the Shenandoah Valley"" Native Medicinal Plants of the Shenandoah Valley"
March 23, 2026 - March 23, 2026
Botetourt County

Local author Rebecca Boone, a descendant of pioneer Daniel Boone, discusses various medicinal plants and how they were used by native peoples and earl... Read More

"American Girl Tea Party I""American Girl Tea Party I"
March 27, 2026 - February 27, 2026
Botetourt County

"Discuss American Girl stories and how they socialized through tea parties, then do a craft. Participants are welcome to bring a doll or an American G... Read More

A Night in the American RevolutionA Night in the American Revolution
March 28, 2026 - March 28, 2026
Botetourt County

Mobile Museum Hours 6:00 - 8:00 pm The historic Wilson Warehouse will be transformed into a Revolutionary War era tavern w... Read More

EvaEva's Story: WWII Veteran
April 11, 2026 - April 11, 2026
Botetourt County

Learn about Eva Aegon, a local veteran from Buchanan who served in the Army Nurse Corps during WWII and was the first of 12 women from Virginia who di... Read More

"Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912""Determining Death Dates, 1896 - 1912"
April 16, 2026 - April 16, 2026
Botetourt County

Learn how to locate a date of death between 1896-1912 in this genealogy workshop. Presented by Rena Worthen, Library Genealogist.... Read More

VA250 Commission

Contact

Sarah Rodgers
540-928-2703