Wilsons, Virginia facts for kids
Wilsons is a small community in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, United States. It's located along U.S. Route 460, a main road between the cities of Petersburg and Blackstone. Wilsons is known for its history, especially its connection to the Civil War and railroads.
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Discover Wilsons, Virginia
Wilsons is what's called an unincorporated community. This means it's a place where people live together, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town does. Instead, it's part of the larger Dinwiddie County.
Wilsons' Past: A Look Back
Wilsons has a rich history, especially concerning the Civil War and the development of railroads in Virginia.
Civil War Battles Near Wilsons
During the American Civil War, several important battles happened in and around Wilsons. One of the most well-known was the Battle of Five Forks. These battles were key moments in the war, showing how important this area was for military movements.
The Railroad's Role in Wilsons
In the mid-1800s, Wilsons became an important stop on the Southside Railroad. This railroad helped connect different parts of Virginia and move goods and people. Over time, the railroad changed names several times. It became the Atlantic, Mississippi and Ohio Railroad in 1870, then part of the Norfolk and Western Railway, and is now part of the Norfolk Southern Railway.
For many years, from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s, Wilsons was vital for steam engines. It provided water for these trains to keep them running. A large water tower stood as a landmark in the town until the 1990s, reminding everyone of its railroad past.
Wilsons Today
Today, Wilsons is home to a few hundred residents. It still has its own U.S. Post Office, which serves the community. You can find it near where Springston Road and Cox Road (Route 460) meet.
