Wilderness, Virginia facts for kids
Wilderness is a small place, or an "unincorporated community," located right on the edge where two counties meet in Virginia, USA. These counties are Orange County and Spotsylvania County. You can find Wilderness mainly around the spot where two important roads, Virginia State Route 20 and Virginia State Route 3, cross paths.
Contents
What is Wilderness?
Wilderness is not a city or a town with its own local government. Instead, it's a group of homes and businesses that are part of the larger Orange and Spotsylvania counties. This type of community is called "unincorporated" because it doesn't have its own separate city hall or mayor.
Where is Wilderness Located?
Wilderness is in the state of Virginia, which is on the east coast of the United States. It sits right on the border between Orange County and Spotsylvania County. This location is important because it's close to a famous forest and historical sites. The official mailing address for people living in Wilderness is usually Locust Grove, which is another nearby community in Orange County.
Why is it Called Wilderness?
The name "Wilderness" likely comes from a very thick forest nearby. This forest was known simply as "The Wilderness Forest." During the American Civil War, a very important and fierce battle took place in this area. It was called the Battle of the Wilderness. The dense trees and difficult terrain of the forest played a big part in how the battle unfolded.
A Glimpse into History
The area around Wilderness has a rich history, especially because of the Civil War. The Battle of the Wilderness happened in May 1864. It was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, fought between the Union Army, led by General Ulysses S. Grant, and the Confederate Army, led by General Robert E. Lee. The thick forest made it hard for soldiers to see and move, leading to chaotic fighting. Even today, you can find historical markers and parks that tell the story of this important time.
