Dublin, Virginia
A Comprehensive Geographic and Economic Profile
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Overview
A Vital Community
Dublin is a town situated in Pulaski County, Virginia, United States. It is an integral part of the Blacksburg-Christiansburg metropolitan area, contributing to the region's economic and social fabric. The town's identity is closely linked to its geographical location and its industrial base.
Naming and Location
The town's name, Dublin, is believed to be derived from Dublin, Ireland, possibly through the New Dublin Presbyterian Church. It is strategically located within the scenic Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia, offering access to natural resources and transportation networks.
Economic Significance
Dublin hosts significant industrial operations, most notably the Volvo Group Trucks Operations New River Valley plant, which stands as the largest Volvo truck manufacturing facility globally. This industrial presence is a cornerstone of the local economy, providing substantial employment opportunities.
Historical Context
Heritage Sites
Dublin's historical significance is marked by several sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include:
- Back Creek Farm
- Belle-Hampton
- Dublin Historic District
- Fairview District Home
- Haven B. Howe House
- New Dublin Presbyterian Church
- Rockwood (Dublin, Virginia)
- Spring Dale (Dublin, Virginia)
These designations underscore the town's rich past and architectural heritage.
Geographic Landscape
Location and Coordinates
Dublin is precisely located at 37ยฐ6โฒ11โณN 80ยฐ41โฒ5โณW (Geohack: 37.10306ยฐN 80.68472ยฐW). This position places it within Pulaski County, Virginia, and contributes to its role within the broader Shenandoah Valley region.
Area and Elevation
The town encompasses a total area of 1.36 square miles (3.52 km2), with 1.35 square miles (3.50 km2) designated as land and a minimal 0.0077 square miles (0.02 km2) as water. Dublin's elevation stands at 2,083 feet (635 meters) above sea level.
Economic Drivers
Industrial Hub
The economy of Dublin is significantly influenced by major industrial operations. The Volvo Trucks North America New River Valley plant is a key employer, recognized as the largest Volvo truck manufacturing facility worldwide. This plant not only produces heavy-duty trucks for the North American market but also began manufacturing battery-powered VNR Electric trucks in early 2021, reflecting a commitment to evolving industry standards.
Employment and Production
The Volvo plant employs close to 3,000 individuals, making it a substantial contributor to local employment. Its production capacity and the introduction of electric vehicle manufacturing highlight Dublin's role in the advanced manufacturing sector.
Demographic Profile
Population Trends
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Dublin had a population of 2,682 residents. Earlier estimates from 2019 placed the population at 2,584. The town has experienced population growth over the decades, reflecting its stability and appeal as a place of residence.
Population Density and Housing
The population density is approximately 1,914.07 people per square mile (739.13/km2). There were 969 housing units recorded, with an average density of 680.6 per square mile (263.5/km2), indicating a mix of residential development.
Societal Composition
The racial makeup of Dublin, as per the 2000 census, was predominantly White (88.85%), with significant African American (8.57%) and smaller percentages of Native American, Asian, and other racial groups. Hispanic or Latino individuals constituted 0.66% of the population. The demographic data reflects the diverse composition of the town.
Household and Family Structures
In 2000, there were 911 households, with 25.8% containing children under 18. Married couples comprised 40.4% of households, while single mothers headed 13.9%. Non-family households accounted for 40.9%. The average household size was 2.13, and the average family size was 2.79.
Age Distribution and Income
The age distribution shows a significant proportion of residents in the prime working and family-forming years (25-44 years at 34.1%). The median age was 34 years. Males outnumbered females slightly (108.8 males per 100 females). The median household income was $27,831, with 18.5% of the population living below the poverty line.
Population Data Table
Historical Population Figures
The following table details the historical population changes in Dublin, Virginia, based on U.S. Decennial Census data:
Notable Individuals
Prominent Figures
Dublin has been home to several notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields:
- Jim Brillheart: A former Major League Baseball pitcher.
- Gary Clark: A four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver in the NFL, playing for teams including the Washington Redskins and Miami Dolphins.
- Shayne Graham: A professional kicker in the NFL, notably with the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Ikey 'Banjo' Robinson: An early jazz banjoist and singer.