Spotsylvania County VA History
Spotsylvania County was created in 1721, named after Alexander Spotswood, lieutenant governor of Virginia. The City of Fredericksburg was formed from the county in 1728. Spotsylvania has a rich history, primarily due to the Civil War. The battles of Chancellorsville, the Wilderness, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania Court House all took place in Spotsylvania. More than 100,000 Union and Confederate troops died here including Stonewall Jackson. The first commercially successful ironworks in North America was based in Spotsylvania. The county also experienced a slave revolt attempt in the 1810s and had one of America's most productive gold mines before 1849.
Spotsylvania County's Vibe
Spotsylvania is a mix of both suburban and country. Near the northern end of the county, there is a city-like feel but in most of the county the neighborhoods are quaint and modest.
Shopping in Spotsylvania County
Spotsylvania has a nice mix of small shops and large shopping centers. The county houses the largest unenclosed mall, Central Park, on the East Coast. It has over 255 businesses and 2 million square feet of retail space. Another shopping venue, Cosner's Corner has over 75 stores for anything you may need to buy. There are also many farmers markets throughout the county where you can buy a wide variety of local foods and goods.
Recreation options in Spotsylvania County VA
Those looking for some fun things to do in Spotsylvania will not have to look very hard. There are many great things to do in the county indoors and out. If you enjoy history you are definitely in luck. Spotsylvania is covered with battlefields. The Courthouse historic district and the town of Fredericksburg can easily give you a full day of entertainment. If you want to keep it inside, there are many bowling alleys and movie theatres to entertain everyone in the family. For the adults, take a trip to one of Spotsylvania's wineries or spirits. Lake Anna Winery, Mattaponi Winery, A. Smith Bowman Distillery, and Blue & Gray Brewing Co. are all highly recommended.
Where do people live in Spotsylvania County?
Spotsylvania residents live in small suburban neighborhoods surrounded by lots of nature. Many people find themselves living very near Civil War battlefields or in the more populated areas close to Fredericksburg.
Spotsylvania County VA Transportation
Spotsylvania is connected by many major roads north to DC and south to Richmond. The Virginia Railway Express and Amtrak trains also run through Fredericksburg.
Spotsylvania County VA Boundaries.
Spotsylvania is bordered by seven counties and cities. To the north are Rappahannock and Rapidan rivers, Fredericksburg, and Stafford and Culpeper Counties. To the south lie the North Anna River and Lake Anna along with Hanover and Louisa Counties. The west border is shared but Orange and Culpeper Counties. Caroline County is the county that borders to the left.
Entertainment and Restaurant options in Spotsylvania County VA
Spotsylvania has a few nice places to get a nice meal. If you want some nice Asian food, Aubergine Thai, China Jade Restaurant, and Pan Asian should be what you're looking for. If you would prefer Italian try either Grioli's Italian Bistro & Pizzeria or Vita Felice Italian Restaurant. For those with a craving for food from south of the border, try out Margarita Bar & Grill or Mexico Restaurant.
Nightlife in Spotsylvania VA
For those looking for some late night fun, you may have to make the trip into Fredericksburg, but there you will find many great bars. Capital Ale House, Park Lane Tavern, and Brocks Riverside Grill are all great places to grab a drink on a weekend night.
Conclusion about Spotsylvania County VA
Spotsylvania is great for lovers of history and the Civil War. It's a suburban county with a nice city close by. The county lies a little over an hour away from both Washington, DC and Richmond, VA making both cities accessible for commuters or for day trips. Spotsylvania is a great place to live and has a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Photo by jimbowen0306
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