Rockbridge County, Virginia (Howe)

ROCKBRIDGE derives its name from the celebrated natural bridge: it was formed in 1778, from Augusta and Botetourt. It s mean length is 31, mean breadth 22 miles. This county is principally watered by North River – a branch of James River – and its tributaries. It flows diagonally through the county, and joins the main branch of James River at the foot of the Blue Ridge, where their united waters force a passage through. Much of the soil is of a superior quality, and highly cultivated. It is one of the most wealthy agricultural counties in the state. Pop. in 1840, whites 10,448, slaves 3,510, free colored 326; total, 14,284.