Barren Springs, Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Barren Springs, Virginia
|
|
|---|---|
 Barren Springs, Virginia
Location in Virginia
Barren Springs, Virginia
Location in the United States
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Virginia |
| County | Wythe |
| Elevation | 2,047 ft (624 m) |
| Population
(2018)
|
|
| • Total | 1,087 |
| • Density | 152/sq mi (59/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP code |
24313
|
| Area code(s) | 276 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1494823 |
Barren Springs is an unincorporated community in Wythe County, Virginia, United States. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a city or town with its own local government. It is located near Virginia State Route 100. The area is known for the beautiful New River and the mountains and hills around it.
Contents
A Look Back at Barren Springs
Early Days and First Settlers
Long ago, different Native American tribes, like the Catawba and Cherokee, lived in the Barren Springs area. Later, in the late 1700s, European settlers arrived. Most of these new families came from Scotland, Ireland, and Germany.
From Farms to Factories
At first, most people in Barren Springs were farmers. But in the late 1800s and early 1900s, things changed. Lead mines opened, giving many local people jobs. A railroad was built, which helped the area grow even more.
With the railroad, several hotels and a store were built. People also started a local school and churches. The lead mines were very important to the area's economy until the mid-1900s, when they closed down.
Schools in Barren Springs
For a long time, children in the area went to a one-room school. In the early 1900s, a bigger school was built in the Patterson community. This school also closed in the mid-1900s.
After that, Wythe County combined schools for the area. Students went to Jackson Memorial Elementary School, Austinville Elementary and Middle School, and Fort Chiswell High School. In 2001, Fort Chiswell Middle School replaced Austinville Elementary and Middle School.
Barren Springs Today: Economy and Life
What People Do for Work
Barren Springs still has a strong farming industry. Many local farms raise beef cattle and hogs, and grow crops like corn and apples.
In recent years, tourism has become very important. Many visitors come to enjoy the New River for outdoor activities.
Local Businesses
Two local general stores serve the community. They offer gas, groceries, and quick meals. In 2017, Dollar General opened a store in Barren Springs. Family Dollar opened one in 2018. Other stores and restaurants are also thinking about opening businesses there.
Barren Springs has its own post office with the ZIP code 24313. In 2018, about 1,087 people lived in the community.
