CONTENT WARNING
Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation.
Context
Long associated with coal mining, southwest Virginia has an impressive list of other industries including farming, salt production, timber, and the mining of lead, copper, gypsum, and iron. These industries helped the region become known as the "Mountain Empire” for its industrial and economic history. The rich soil, waterways, and natural resources of southwest Virginia made it a valuable commodity to colonial settlers, the Confederate government, and northern industrialists.
Southwest Virginia includes the area west of Roanoke and north of the New River to the western borders of the Commonwealth. The first of the present-day counties were established in 1776 (Montgomery and Washington). Exploration and sparse settlement pre-dated the county formations by about thirty years, however. The region's independent early settlers came from Ireland, Scotland, Germany, England, and the Netherlands, drawn by a landscape rich in timber, wildlife, and proximity to waterways such as the Holston and New River, as well as the Cumberland Gap.
The investment of capital by northern businessmen following the Civil War, especially in coal mining and the railroads, brought Italians, Poles, Hungarians, Czechs, and African Americans as cheap labor for big industry. After the downturn in large-scale heavy industry in the region, southwest Virginia has turned to light manufacturing and service sector industries to remain a valuable contributor to Virginia's diverse economy.
Citation: Boyd, C.R. South West-Virginia & contiguous territory: mineral resources & railway. Philadelphia: J.L. Smith, 1886. G3882 .V45H1 1886 .B68, Map Collection, Library of Virginia
Standards
Earth Science: ES.6, ES.8
Suggested Questions
Preview Activity
Think About It: The map provides information about the landscape in southwestern Virginia. What natural resources are shown on the map? Why is this information important?
Post Activities
Analyze: How did the coal mining industry affect immigration and migration in the United States, particularly southwestern Virginia? Consider the shifts in demographics and economics.
STEM STAT: Southwest Virginia was and still is rich in minerals and other natural resources. What makes this region such a prime location for natural resources? Use your knowledge of Earth Science and topography when answering this question.
Current Connection: The abundance of natural resources in southwest Virginia is still a factor in economic and public policy decisions today. Identify three competing interests from the perspectives of an environmentalist who wants to protect natural resources and from those in industries seeking to use the natural resources.