The Shenandoah Valley, nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Allegheny Mountains to the west, is a region steeped in history and rich in genealogical treasures. This picturesque valley in the heart of Virginia has witnessed centuries of human migration, settlement, and cultural fusion.
Its history as a melting pot of cultures began with its earliest inhabitants. Long before European contact, various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Cherokee, and Iroquois, called this fertile region home. They cultivated crops, and established vibrant communities, leaving a profound cultural imprint on the valley's landscape.The Great Warrior's Road, a historic pathway through the Shenandoah Valley, served as a vital link in the development of the Great Wagon Road. Originally established by Native American tribes for trade and communication, this ancient trail evolved into a significant transportation route. In the 18th century, European immigrants from various countries used this critical thoroughfare to venture into the uncharted territories of the American South. The majority of these early immigrants came from the following regions:
My ancestors were among some of those early immigrants into the valley. My German ancestors, the Hengerers (now Hanger) arrived in the 1750s and eventually settled in Augusta County around 1769. The Scots-Irish side of my family, the McCalls, arrived sometime in the mid to late 1700s and settled in Rockingham County. Indeed, my roots run deep in the Shenandoah Valley, the beautiful backdrop to my childhood and the heart of my family's history. Growing up there gave me a profound appreciation for its ancient mountains and the warmth of its people. The people here are rooted in tradition, kindness, and a strong sense of community. If you share a connection to the Shenandoah Valley, whether through your ancestors or your own life experiences, I invite you to embark on a journey of discovery. Its history is not just a story of the past but of a living tapestry of families, traditions, and legacies waiting to be uncovered. Contact me to get started!
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AuthorMarie has spent 15 years researching her own family origin stories. Archives
October 2023
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