Falls Mills, Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Falls Mills, Virginia
|
|
|---|---|
Location in the Commonwealth of Virginia
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Virginia |
| County | Tazewell |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.89 sq mi (2.3 km2) |
| • Land | 0.878 sq mi (2.27 km2) |
| • Water | 0.012 sq mi (0.03 km2) 1.348% |
| Elevation | 2,858 ft (871.118 m) |
| Population
(2020)
|
|
| • Total | 305 |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP code |
24613
|
| Area code(s) | 276 |
Falls Mills is a small community located in Tazewell County, Virginia, United States. It is known as an unincorporated community and a census-designated place. This means it's a recognized place but doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Falls Mills is found where the Mud Fork creek valley opens up. It is also part of the larger Bluefield, West Virginia-Virginia area.
Contents
History of Falls Mills
How Falls Mills Got Its Name
Falls Mills got its name from a special mill that was once located there. This mill was built near a natural dam in the Bluestone River. The area also has another important dam. This dam was built by the Norfolk and Western Railroad across Mud Fork creek. It stands about 20 feet high and stretches for hundreds of feet. This created a lake that is more than a mile long.
The Lake and Its Fun Activities
From the mid-1900s to the late 1900s, this lake was a popular summer spot. People would come to enjoy boating, fishing, and staying in cabins. Even today, local residents still love to fish in the lake. The Falls Mills Fishing Club helps to keep the lake healthy and stocked with fish.
A Moment in History: The Engagement at Falls Mills
One of the most important events in Falls Mills' history happened during the American Civil War. It is called the "Engagement at Falls Mills." On July 20, 1863, early in the morning, a group of Confederate cavalry soldiers, led by Major Andrew J. May, surprised a Union raiding party. The Union soldiers, led by Lt. Col Freeman E. Franklin, were getting ready to burn the Falls Mill.
The Confederate cavalry chased the Union soldiers from their camp in a nearby area called Brown's Meadow. The Union group then fled north towards Abbs Valley. As they were leaving, Brigadier General John Stuart Williams' Confederate cavalry attacked them. This caused the Union raiders to leave behind captured supplies and animals they had taken.
Population Over Time
In 1940, the population of Falls Mills was around 300 people.
