Bilder aus Amerika: Virginia Reihe

Highland County, known as "Virginia's Little Switzerland," features a unique history shaped by its high altitude and small population. Officially formed in 1847 from parts of Bath and Pendleton Counties, its early German and Scotch Irish settlers displayed remarkable perseverance in the face of isolation. This book captures the county's identity, blending strong individualism with community spirit, and showcases its rich tradition through captivating photographs spanning the 19th century to the present day, illustrating the evolution of both the rural landscape and its inhabitants.

Richmond's rich history unfolds through captivating stories of settlers, Native Americans, and notable figures like Elvis Presley. The book features several walking tours, including a visit to Capitol Square, showcasing the Thomas Jefferson-designed state capitol, a stroll along Monument Avenue, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, and a peaceful exploration of Hollywood Cemetery, the final resting place of many prominent historical figures. Each tour offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past and cultural significance.

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Deltaville, the narrative explores the region's rich historical significance, from its strategic location between major rivers and the Chesapeake Bay to its role in pivotal events like the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. The community evolved from a hub of wooden boatbuilding, fishing, and oystering into a vibrant waterfront resort, attracting recreational boaters and tourists. This transformation highlights the interplay between local industry and the area's cultural development over time.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, hailed as one of the "Five Wonders of the Modern World," represents a monumental engineering achievement that transformed access between the Eastern Shore and the Virginia mainland. Spearheaded by Lucius J. Kellam Jr., this ambitious project spanned a decade and cost $200 million, featuring a complex of bridges, tunnels, and islands. Its completion in 1964 not only captured global attention but also marked the end of the long-standing ferry service that had been vital for travelers on the New York-to-Florida route.

The history of Falls Church is rich with transformation, from its fertile land and early settlement around a prominent 18th-century church to its proximity to Washington, DC. Witnessing significant events like the War of 1812 and the Civil War, the town evolved from a major farming center to a suburban community post-World War II. The narrative highlights the development of its religious, educational, and civic institutions, reflecting the impact of historical movements, including civil rights, that shaped its unique identity amidst urban expansion.

The transformation of the Roanoke and Blackwater Rivers into Smith Mountain Lake between 1963 and 1966 marked a significant shift from rural farming to a vibrant recreational hub. Initially created for electricity generation, the lake's development led to the establishment of marinas, resorts, and homes, attracting even Hollywood filmmakers. This book captures the evolution of Bedford County, highlighting the blend of modern community growth with remnants of its agricultural past, showcasing the region's rich history and changing identity.

Set against the backdrop of 18th and 19th-century Southampton County, the book explores the complex social fabric shaped by Native Americans, whites, free blacks, and slaves within a cotton and peanut plantation economy. Key historical events, such as the 1818 cotton crop devastation and Nat Turner's 1831 insurrection, significantly influenced the region's culture and U.S. domestic policy. This pictorial history uniquely highlights the county's diverse communities from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, offering a comprehensive visual narrative of its past.