Westmoreland County: A Cradle of American Leadership
Exploring the historical tapestry and enduring legacy of Virginia's Northern Neck, from its colonial origins to its role in shaping the nation.
Discover History 📜 Notable Figures 👤Historical Significance
Colonial Establishment
Established by the Virginia colony's House of Burgesses in 1653, Westmoreland County was carved from Northumberland County. It was named in honor of the English county of Westmorland, reflecting the coastal similarities of both regions.[3] Initially, its territory was vast, encompassing much of what is now Northern Virginia, including areas that would later form Alexandria, Arlington County, Fairfax County, and Prince William County, until Stafford County was formed in 1664.
Birthplace of Presidents and Generals
Westmoreland County holds a unique place in American history as the birthplace of three pivotal figures: George Washington, the first U.S. President, born at Bridges Creek; James Monroe, the fifth U.S. President; and Robert E. Lee, the esteemed Confederate general. This legacy underscores the county's profound influence on the nation's formative years and its subsequent development.
Colonial Estates and Emancipation
The county was home to prominent colonial figures like Colonel Nicholas Spencer, a President of the Council and acting Governor of Virginia, who resided at his plantation, Nomini. His land patent at Mount Vernon was co-signed with John Washington, an ancestor of George Washington. Later, Robert Carter III, a descendant of Robert "King" Carter, undertook the largest private emancipation in American history at Nomini Hall, freeing nearly 500 enslaved individuals and facilitating their settlement in Ohio Country, a monumental act of manumission prior to the Civil War.[5]
Geographical Context
Location and Area
Situated on the Northern Neck peninsula of Virginia, Westmoreland County spans a total area of 253 square miles (660 km2). Of this, 229 square miles (590 km2) constitute land, with the remaining 24 square miles (62 km2) comprising water, representing approximately 9.3% of the total area.[6] The county is strategically located along the Potomac River, bordering Maryland to the north and northeast.
Viticultural Heritage
The county lies within the Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace AVA (American Viticultural Area), an appellation recognized for its wine-growing potential. This designation highlights the region's agricultural heritage, which continues to be a significant component of its economy.
Natural and Historic Sites
Westmoreland County is home to significant natural and historical landmarks. The George Washington Birthplace National Monument preserves the site of the first U.S. President's birthplace, while Stratford Hall Plantation serves as the ancestral home of the Lee family, including Robert E. Lee. Additionally, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge includes a unit within the county, underscoring its ecological importance.
Demographic Profile
Population Trends
As of the 2020 United States Census, Westmoreland County recorded a population of 18,477, reflecting a steady increase from previous decades. The population density stands at approximately 73 persons per square mile (28 per km2). The county's demographic composition shows a majority White population, followed by a significant Black or African American population, with smaller percentages identifying as Asian, Native American, or of mixed races. The Hispanic or Latino population constitutes a notable segment of the overall populace.
Socioeconomic Indicators
In the year 2000, the median household income was $35,797, with a median family income of $41,357. Male workers reported a median income of $31,333, contrasted with $22,221 for females. The per capita income was $19,473. Approximately 11.2% of families and 14.7% of the total population lived below the poverty line during that period.
Census Data Overview
The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the county's population by race and ethnicity, comparing data from the 2010 and 2020 censuses.
| Race / Ethnicity | Pop 2010[11] | Pop 2020[12] | % 2010 | % 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White alone (NH) | 11,087 | 11,758 | 63.52% | 63.64% |
| Black or African American alone (NH) | 4,855 | 4,470 | 27.82% | 24.19% |
| Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) | 64 | 67 | 0.37% | 0.36% |
| Asian alone (NH) | 91 | 146 | 0.52% | 0.79% |
| Pacific Islander alone (NH) | 3 | 11 | 0.02% | 0.06% |
| Some Other Race alone (NH) | 14 | 68 | 0.08% | 0.37% |
| Mixed Race/Multi-Racial (NH) | 338 | 908 | 1.94% | 4.91% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 1,002 | 1,049 | 5.74% | 5.68% |
| Total | 17,454 | 18,477 | 100.00% | 100.00% |
Note: The U.S. Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category, distinct from race. This table reflects that methodology by excluding Latinos from racial categories and presenting them separately.
Economic Landscape
Agricultural Foundation
The economy of Westmoreland County is significantly anchored in its agricultural sector. The fertile lands of the Northern Neck support a variety of farming activities, contributing to the county's rural character and economic vitality.
Tourism and Heritage
Tourism plays a crucial role in the county's economy, driven by its rich historical sites. Attractions such as the George Washington Birthplace National Monument, Stratford Hall Plantation, and the Westmoreland County Museum draw visitors interested in colonial history and the lives of its prominent figures. Gambling activities in Colonial Beach also contribute to the tourism sector.
Exurban Influence
Westmoreland County also functions as an extended exurb of Washington, D.C. This proximity influences its economy and demographics, attracting residents who commute to the capital region while benefiting from the county's more tranquil, historically rich environment. Local businesses, such as Northern Neck Coca-Cola Bottling Inc. and the weekly Westmoreland News, are integral to the community's economic fabric.
Notable Figures
Founding Era Luminaries
Westmoreland County is distinguished as the birthplace of several figures central to the founding and early history of the United States:
- George Washington: First President of the United States.
- James Monroe: Fifth President of the United States.
- Richard Henry Lee: Signatory of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and sixth President of the Continental Congress.
- Francis Lightfoot Lee: Signatory of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
- Bushrod Washington: Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and nephew of George Washington.
Military and Cultural Icons
The county's historical prominence extends to other influential individuals:
- Robert E. Lee: General of the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
- Nicholas Spencer: President of the Virginia Council and acting Governor of the Colony of Virginia.
- Thomas Lee: A leading political figure in colonial Virginia.
- John Washington: Great-grandfather of George Washington.
- Sloan Wilson: Author of the acclaimed novel The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit.
- Walter Balderson: Emmy Award-winning video engineer.
Communities
Incorporated Towns
Westmoreland County features two primary incorporated towns, each contributing to the county's unique character:
- Colonial Beach: Known for its waterfront location and recreational activities.
- Montross: Serves as the county seat, housing its governmental functions and historical courthouse.
Unincorporated Areas
Beyond its towns, the county is dotted with numerous unincorporated communities, each with its own local history and identity. These include places such as Hague, Kinsale, Leedstown, Machodoc, Nomini, Oak Grove, and Stratford Hall, among many others, forming the broader residential and historical fabric of Westmoreland County.
Political Landscape
Bellwether Status
Westmoreland County is recognized as a significant political bellwether within Virginia. Historically, it has demonstrated a strong tendency to align with the winning presidential candidate, having voted for the victor in nearly every U.S. presidential election since 1928, with notable exceptions in 1948, 1960, and 2020. This pattern highlights the county's role as an indicator of broader electoral trends.
Presidential Election Results
The following table details the historical voting patterns in Westmoreland County for U.S. Presidential elections, illustrating the shifts in political preference over time.
| Year | Republican | Democratic | Third party(ies) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. | % | No. | % | No. | % | |
| 2024 | 6,003 | 56.59% | 4,491 | 42.34% | 113 | 1.07% |
| 2020 | 5,318 | 53.54% | 4,501 | 45.31% | 114 | 1.15% |
| 2016 | 4,448 | 51.88% | 3,836 | 44.74% | 290 | 3.38% |
| 2012 | 3,731 | 45.95% | 4,295 | 52.89% | 94 | 1.16% |
| 2008 | 3,719 | 44.40% | 4,577 | 54.64% | 81 | 0.97% |
| 2004 | 3,433 | 50.13% | 3,370 | 49.21% | 45 | 0.66% |
| 2000 | 2,932 | 48.66% | 2,922 | 48.49% | 172 | 2.85% |
| 1996 | 2,333 | 40.31% | 2,949 | 50.95% | 506 | 8.74% |
| 1992 | 2,554 | 41.04% | 2,758 | 44.32% | 911 | 14.64% |
| 1988 | 2,974 | 55.38% | 2,311 | 43.04% | 85 | 1.58% |
| 1984 | 3,219 | 56.84% | 2,363 | 41.73% | 81 | 1.43% |
| 1980 | 2,510 | 50.31% | 2,271 | 45.52% | 208 | 4.17% |
| 1976 | 1,909 | 41.79% | 2,355 | 51.55% | 304 | 6.65% |
| 1972 | 2,331 | 66.00% | 1,113 | 31.51% | 88 | 2.49% |
| 1968 | 1,402 | 39.99% | 1,156 | 32.97% | 948 | 27.04% |
| 1964 | 1,181 | 47.26% | 1,312 | 52.50% | 6 | 0.24% |
| 1960 | 1,176 | 53.00% | 1,034 | 46.60% | 9 | 0.41% |
| 1956 | 1,033 | 54.45% | 695 | 36.64% | 169 | 8.91% |
| 1952 | 1,117 | 59.51% | 754 | 40.17% | 6 | 0.32% |
| 1948 | 568 | 44.51% | 503 | 39.42% | 205 | 16.07% |
| 1944 | 532 | 39.58% | 808 | 60.12% | 4 | 0.30% |
| 1940 | 357 | 29.68% | 845 | 70.24% | 1 | 0.08% |
| 1936 | 296 | 25.36% | 871 | 74.64% | 0 | 0.00% |
| 1932 | 212 | 24.74% | 641 | 74.80% | 4 | 0.47% |
| 1928 | 554 | 58.50% | 393 | 41.50% | 0 | 0.00% |
| 1924 | 157 | 23.97% | 484 | 73.89% | 14 | 2.14% |
| 1920 | 133 | 25.09% | 396 | 74.72% | 1 | 0.19% |
| 1916 | 126 | 27.10% | 338 | 72.69% | 1 | 0.22% |
| 1912 | 69 | 15.16% | 341 | 74.95% | 45 | 9.89% |
Educational Institutions
School Districts
Educational governance in Westmoreland County is primarily managed by two distinct school districts:
- Westmoreland County Public Schools: This district serves the majority of the county's population, providing K-12 education.
- Colonial Beach Town Public Schools: This district manages educational services for residents within the town limits of Colonial Beach.
These districts are responsible for curriculum development, student services, and the administration of educational facilities throughout their respective jurisdictions.
References
Source Citations
The information presented on this page is derived from publicly available data, with specific citations managed programmatically.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Westmoreland County Virginia" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- Marquis, A.N. Company. Who's Who In America, vol. 1:Historical Volume (1607-1896), revised ed., Marquis, A.N. Company., 1967.
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system, drawing upon publicly sourced data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the information is presented for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation, historical research, or official documentation.
This is not professional advice. The details provided regarding historical events, demographics, or economic factors should be verified through primary sources or expert consultation. The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.