If you think of Rockbridge County, Virginia, as just another rural enclave, scenic but unimportant in the shaping of national and world history, you are in for a surprise. Many of those who have called Rockbridge home have made significant contributions to our once emerging nation, some that easily could be passed over and forgotten by the continuing march of time. As one reads this collection of narratives, the mind begins to ponder how and why such a seeming backwater can spawn such genius, high character, and heroism. We cannot help but wonder if there is some underlying reason that this valley community produces the kind of personalities and historical impact that seem to be completely out of proportion to its size and proximity to political and economic power centers. Is there truly something in the crystal waters and pure mountain air to cause such an anomaly? Come along as we find out more about the past in this magical place we call Rockbridge County.