Fort Lewis, Virginia facts for kids
Fort Lewis is a special historic place in Bath County, Virginia. It includes an old manor house, a farm, and a lodge for visitors. This area was first settled a very long time ago, even before the American Civil War.
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What is Fort Lewis?
Fort Lewis is a historic estate, which means it's a large property with old buildings and land. It has a beautiful manor house that was built before the Civil War, a working farm, and a lodge where people can stay. It's a great example of history that you can still visit today.
Early History of Fort Lewis
The story of Fort Lewis began with a man named Charles Lewis. He was the son of a famous early settler named Colonel John Lewis. Charles Lewis settled in this part of Virginia, which was then the western frontier.
Building the Stockade
In 1756, Charles Lewis built a small fort called a "stockade" at Fort Lewis. A stockade was a simple fort made of strong wooden posts. Its main job was to protect the settlers and the important western end of the Shenandoah Mountain pass. This area was a key route, and the stockade helped keep people safe from attacks during a time when the frontier could be dangerous.
Fort Lewis During the French & Indian War
The stockade at Fort Lewis was part of a bigger plan. The Virginia Colonial General Assembly, which was the government at the time, decided to build many forts along the frontier. This was during the French & Indian War (1754-1763). These forts helped protect the colonists living in the western parts of Virginia. Even though the original wooden stockade is gone, the main house, farm, and a rebuilt gristmill (a mill that grinds grain) are still there as part of the "Fort Lewis Lodge."
Fort Lewis Today
Fort Lewis is recognized as an important historical site. In 2019, it was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a place that the United States government considers worthy of preserving because of its historical importance. Today, Fort Lewis Lodge welcomes visitors who want to experience its history and the beauty of the Virginia mountains.
