According to itypetravel, Big Stone Gap, Virginia lies in the Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia. The town is nestled in a valley of the Appalachians and is surrounded by rolling hills. The area is known for its beautiful views of the mountains and provides great opportunities for outdoor activities. The town itself has a population of just over 5,000 people, making it a small but vibrant community. Big Stone Gap offers plenty of historical attractions such as the Harry W. Meador Coal Museum, which documents the history of coal mining in the area, as well as many other interesting sites like Natural Tunnel State Park and Powell Valley Overlook. There are also numerous hiking trails nearby that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Big Stone Gap also boasts an abundance of natural beauty with its lush forests and mountain streams. With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Big Stone Gap is an ideal destination for those looking to explore all that Southwest Virginia has to offer.
History of Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Big Stone Gap, Virginia has a long and rich history. The town was originally settled by Scottish-Irish immigrants in the late 1700s and was a major hub for the coal mining industry in the late 19th century. During this time, Big Stone Gap grew to become one of the largest towns in Southwest Virginia. In 1891, the town incorporated and became officially known as Big Stone Gap.
Throughout the 20th century, Big Stone Gap continued to be an important center for coal mining and other industries such as lumbering and manufacturing. The town also served as a major cultural hub with many theaters, churches and schools being established over time. In recent years, Big Stone Gap has seen a resurgence of interest in its history thanks to its many historical sites like the Harry W. Meador Coal Museum which documents the area’s coal mining past.
Today, Big Stone Gap is still home to many of its original buildings that were constructed during its heyday as well as newer additions like Natural Tunnel State Park which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also explore downtown Big Stone Gap which still retains much of its old-world charm from when it served as an important economic center for Southwest Virginia’s coal industry. With its unique history, culture and natural beauty, Big Stone Gap is an ideal destination for those looking to explore all that Southwest Virginia has to offer.
Economy of Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Big Stone Gap, Virginia has a long and diverse economic history. The town was originally settled by Scottish-Irish immigrants in the late 1700s and was a major hub for the coal mining industry in the late 19th century. During this time, Big Stone Gap grew to become one of the largest towns in Southwest Virginia and its economy was heavily reliant on coal mining.
Throughout the 20th century, Big Stone Gap continued to be an important center for coal mining and other industries such as lumbering and manufacturing. The town also served as a major cultural hub with many theaters, churches and schools being established over time. These businesses helped provide jobs for many of Big Stone Gap’s citizens.
In recent years, Big Stone Gap has seen a shift away from its traditional industries towards more modern businesses such as tourism, retail, healthcare, education and technology. The town is home to several tourist attractions such as Natural Tunnel State Park which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as well as several historical sites like the Harry W. Meador Coal Museum which documents the area’s coal mining past.
Today, Big Stone Gap is still home to many of its original businesses that were established during its heyday as well as newer additions like retail stores, restaurants, hotels and hospitals that serve both locals and visitors alike. With its diverse economy and rich cultural heritage, Big Stone Gap is an ideal destination for those looking to explore all that Southwest Virginia has to offer.
Politics in Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Big Stone Gap, Virginia is a small town located in the Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia. It is part of Wise County, which is a predominantly rural area with a strong tradition of voting Democratic. The town itself has long been a bastion of Democratic support and its citizens have consistently voted for Democratic candidates in local, state and national elections.
At the local level, Big Stone Gap residents elect a mayor and four council members who serve for four-year terms. The town also has an elected school board that oversees the public schools in the area. Big Stone Gap is part of Virginia’s 9th Congressional District which is represented by Republican Morgan Griffith in the US House of Representatives.
At the state level, Big Stone Gap is part of Virginia’s 38th Senate District which covers much of Southwest Virginia and is represented by Democrat John Edwards. In addition, Big Stone Gap falls within Virginia’s 6th House District which includes parts of Wise County, Lee County and Scott County and is represented by Republican Charles Poindexter.
In addition to its representatives at the state and federal levels, Big Stone Gap also has two representatives on the Wise County Board of Supervisors who are elected every four years to oversee county government operations such as road maintenance and public safety services.
Big Stone Gap residents take pride in their political participation and are actively engaged in local politics through various civic organizations like churches or community groups that promote voter education or voter registration drives ahead of each election cycle. With its long history as an important cultural center for Southwest Virginia, Big Stone Gap continues to be an important political hub for this region today.
