Before Lewis & Clark (Augusta County)

 

Pocahontas County was once a part of Augusta County

Dr. Thomas Walker's Exploration for the Loyal Land Company (1749-50)

Dr. Thomas Walker embarked on an expedition westward in 1749-50, employed by the Loyal Land Company to locate a suitable area for settlement. His journey, documented in his journal, provides valuable insights into the geography and early exploration of what is now Southwest Virginia.

Here are some key aspects and significance of Walker's journey:

• Route: Walker's expedition began on March 6, 1750. He and his companions traveled on horseback, carrying supplies and equipment. His journal entries meticulously detail the paths they took, often mentioning landmarks like rivers, creeks, mountains, and even specific trees. For example, on March 13th, he notes taking the "mam wagon road leading to Wood's or the New River", and later mentions notable landmarks like Inglis' Ferry and the settlements of Samuel Stalnaker. The journal entries show a progression of their exploration, highlighting the challenges they faced in navigating the terrain and the significance of certain locations.

 Dr. Thomas Walker does mention the Greenbrier River in his journal.

Walker's journal provides detailed accounts of his travels through the region now known as West Virginia. In his entries, he describes his journey along the Greenbrier River, noting the river's characteristics, the surrounding landscape, and his observations of the area.  

If you're interested in learning more about Walker's journey and his experiences with the Greenbrier River, you can find excerpts from his journal online or in historical texts.

 

• Encountering Stalnaker's Settlement (March 26th): Walker's journal notes reaching Samuel Stalnaker's settlement on March 26th, which marked the "frontiers of civilization" at that time. This encounter underscores the gradual westward expansion of settlers and the role of individuals like Stalnaker in establishing a foothold in new territories.

 

• Identifying the Western Boundary of Augusta County: While Walker's primary objective was to find a suitable location for settlement, his journey unintentionally served to further delineate the western boundary of Augusta County, Virginia. Augusta County at the time encompassed a vast territory that stretched westward to include parts of present-day West Virginia, Kentucky, and beyond. Walker's explorations contributed to a more accurate understanding of the geographical features and potential boundaries within this vast area.

 

• Significance of the Journal: Walker's detailed journal, beyond its geographical and historical significance, also reveals glimpses into the natural environment of the region in the mid-18th century. He records observations about the abundance of buffalo (bison), noting their presence even west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. He mentions various fish species they encountered in rivers and describes the challenges posed by dense laurel thickets. These details provide a valuable ecological snapshot of the region before widespread European settlement significantly altered the landscape.

It is important to note that the sources provided do not explicitly state that Walker was tasked with mapping the territory. His role primarily involved locating a promising area for the Loyal Land Company's settlement. However, his detailed journal and observations undoubtedly contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of the region west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, aiding in the broader efforts of exploration and eventual mapping during this era.

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Key Figures in Augusta County's Founding

The sources highlight several pivotal figures involved in the establishment of Augusta County, Virginia:

• John Lewis: Described as the "first settler in Augusta", John Lewis arrived in the region by 1732 and is credited with playing a significant role in shaping the early colony. He emigrated from Ireland, eventually making his way to the Shenandoah Valley. His decision to settle in the area, along with his family, marks the beginning of organized European settlement in what would become Augusta County. The sources portray him as a man of influence, respected for his wisdom and resilience, particularly for his resistance against tyranny in Ireland. His descendants went on to hold prominent positions in various states, further solidifying the Lewis family's lasting impact on the region.

• Isaac Vanmeter: While not directly involved in governing or settling, Isaac Vanmeter played a crucial role in opening up the Shenandoah Valley for settlement. In 1730, he secured a substantial land grant of 40,000 acres from the Governor of Virginia. This grant, located in the heart of the valley, attracted pioneers like Joist Hite and John Lewis, laying the groundwork for the influx of settlers that led to Augusta County's formation in 1738.

• Joist Hite: Arriving in 1732 with a group of pioneers, Joist Hite played a direct role in settling Vanmeter's 40,000-acre grant. His expedition, which included John Lewis, represents a significant step in the organized settlement of the Shenandoah Valley, ultimately contributing to the critical mass of inhabitants needed to establish Augusta County a few years later.

• Colonial Governors and Council: The establishment of Augusta County cannot be attributed solely to the actions of individuals. The sources emphasize the role of the Colonial Governors and Council in encouraging and shaping settlement patterns west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They issued land grants, organized counties, and appointed key officials, all of which were instrumental in establishing a formal governing structure in the region. The sources note, for instance, that the Governor and Council were responsible for formally establishing Augusta County from the western portion of Orange County in 1738.

• Early Pioneers and Settlers: While the sources single out specific individuals, it's crucial to acknowledge the collective contributions of the many unnamed pioneers and settlers who braved the challenges of frontier life to establish homes and communities west of the Blue Ridge. Their determination to build a life in this new territory was essential in creating the population density and social structures needed to formally establish Augusta County.

It is important to note that the sources primarily focus on individuals of European descent. They do not provide insights into the potential roles or contributions of Native Americans who inhabited the region before the arrival of Europeans. You may wish to consult additional historical resources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this aspect.

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Reasons for Scotch-Irish Migration to the Valley of Virginia

The sources point to several interconnected reasons behind the Scotch-Irish migration to the Valley of Virginia, primarily between the early 18th century and the mid-18th century:

• Religious Freedom: The sources highlight that dissenters from the Church of England, particularly Scotch-Irish Presbyterians, faced considerable pressure and limited religious freedom in their homelands. They sought refuge in the colonies, where they hoped to practice their faith without persecution. The Virginia colonial government, eager to populate the western territories, adopted a more lenient approach toward enforcing the rules of the Established Church on Presbyterians and other dissenters in the Valley. This relative tolerance attracted a "flood of settlers" from Scotland and Ireland, who saw the Valley as a place where they could freely practice their Presbyterian faith.

• Economic Opportunity: The sources describe the Valley of Virginia as a land of exceptional beauty and fertility, qualities that made it highly appealing to those seeking new beginnings and economic prospects. The availability of land, combined with the lenient approach to religious regulations, presented a compelling opportunity for the Scotch-Irish, who were often seeking better economic circumstances.

• Land Grants and Encouragement from Proprietors: The sources emphasize the role of large land grants in attracting settlers to the Valley. Individuals like Isaac Vanmeter, who secured a 40,000-acre grant in 1730, and Benjamin Borden, who obtained an 100,000-acre grant in 1734, actively sought settlers for their lands. These proprietors offered incentives and advertised the region's advantages, enticing those like the Scotch-Irish who were looking for a fresh start and a chance to own land.

• Established Migration Routes: By the early 18th century, patterns of Scotch-Irish migration to America had already formed. Many initially arrived in Pennsylvania before moving south into the Shenandoah Valley. This established route, likely influenced by factors like existing communities and kinship ties, facilitated the movement of the Scotch-Irish into the Valley of Virginia. The sources note that these migrants "passed into and settled in the Valley," indicating a flow of people along a familiar path.

It's essential to consider the broader context of this migration. The sources primarily focus on the perspective of the arriving Scotch-Irish and the Virginia colonial government's role in encouraging settlement. However, this influx of people occurred alongside the continued presence and eventual displacement of Native American populations who had long inhabited the Valley. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this historical period, it's crucial to examine the experiences and perspectives of Native American communities impacted by the arrival and expansion of European settlers.

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The Impact of Early Explorers on Augusta County's Development

The actions of early explorers, particularly those venturing west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, had a profound influence on the later development of Augusta County. While explorers like Dr. Thomas Walker were not always specifically tasked with mapping the territory, their journeys and accounts proved crucial for several reasons:

• Stimulating Settlement: Explorers' accounts, often emphasizing the fertile lands and abundant game west of the Blue Ridge, enticed settlers from eastern Virginia and beyond. The sources describe this westward migration as "rapid" and considerable, noting that by 1738, enough people had settled west of the mountains to warrant the formation of Augusta County from the western portion of Orange County. Dr. Walker's 1749-50 expedition, commissioned by the Loyal Land Company to locate a suitable settlement area, further exemplifies this trend. His detailed journal entries, describing the route, natural features, and even encounters with early settlers like Samuel Stalnaker, provided valuable information for those considering a move westward.
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• Defining Boundaries: The initial boundaries of Augusta County, established in 1738, encompassed an expansive and largely uncharted territory stretching westward. Explorers like Walker, through their journeys, contributed to a more accurate understanding of the geographical features within this vast area, which helped refine the county's boundaries over time. Augusta County was eventually reduced to its present size in 1790.
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• Opening Communication and Trade Routes: Explorers were often the first to establish routes through the wilderness, which later evolved into roads and pathways for trade and communication. For instance, the sources mention the "Great Road" leading to the New River (now known as the New River Trail), highlighting its use by early explorers and settlers. This route facilitated the movement of people and goods, contributing to the economic and social development of Augusta County and surrounding areas.

The sources provided focus primarily on the role of English explorers and settlers. They do not offer details about potential interactions or influences stemming from the exploration efforts of other European powers, such as the French, in the region that would become Augusta County. You may wish to consult additional historical resources for a more comprehensive perspective on this aspect.

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 Motivations for Encouraging Settlement on the Mississippi

The sources, primarily focused on the history of settlements in what is now Southwest Virginia, offer glimpses into the English government's motivations for encouraging settlement along the Mississippi River during the 18th century. These motivations stemmed from a combination of economic, political, and strategic considerations:

• Strengthening Territorial Claims: The sources portray a sense of competition between the English government and other European powers, particularly the French, for control of the vast lands west of the Allegheny Mountains. Establishing a presence on the waters of the Mississippi was seen as crucial for asserting English dominance and solidifying their claim to the region in the face of French expansion.

• Expanding Frontiers and Resources: The English government recognized the economic potential of the lands bordering the Mississippi River. By encouraging settlement in these areas, they aimed to expand their territorial boundaries and gain access to valuable resources. This drive aligns with the economic motivations behind many of the early explorers and settlers, who were drawn to the region by promises of fertile land and abundant game, as highlighted in our previous conversations about Augusta County's development.

• Creating a Buffer Zone and Enhancing Security: Establishing a string of English settlements along the Mississippi River served a strategic purpose by creating a buffer zone against potential threats from rival European powers and Native American tribes. The sources note the English government's concern over French activities in the region and their efforts to counter them through settlement. A more populated frontier would bolster defenses and provide a sense of security for the English colonies further east.

• Promoting Trade and Economic Growth: The Mississippi River represented a vital artery for trade and communication, connecting the interior regions with the established colonies along the Atlantic coast and potentially opening up new markets. Encouraging settlement along its banks would facilitate trade, stimulate economic growth, and provide the English government with a means to exert greater economic control over the region.

It is important to acknowledge that the sources offer a limited perspective on this complex historical period. While they provide valuable insights into English motivations, they primarily reflect the experiences and perspectives of English explorers, settlers, and colonial officials. To fully comprehend the multifaceted dynamics at play, it is crucial to consider additional historical resources that explore the perspectives and experiences of Native American communities who were impacted by the English push for westward expansion and control of the Mississippi River.

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Thomas Walker's Journey Along the Greenbrier River

Dr. Thomas Walker, a prominent figure in the exploration of the American frontier, played a significant role in the early history of the Greenbrier River region. His journey through this area in 1750 provided valuable insights into the natural resources, geography, and potential for settlement in the region.  

Key points from Walker's journey:

• Exploration and Discovery: Walker's expedition was primarily focused on exploring the lands granted to the Loyal Company of Virginia. This exploration took him along the Greenbrier River, where he made observations about the river's course, the surrounding landscape, and the potential for agricultural development.  
• Natural Resources: Walker noted the abundance of natural resources in the region, including timber, fertile land, and potential for mineral wealth. These discoveries helped to attract settlers to the area in the years to come.
• Historical Significance: Walker's journey is considered a significant milestone in the exploration of the American frontier. His observations and descriptions of the Greenbrier River region contributed to a growing understanding of the area's potential and helped to shape its future development.

To learn more about Walker's journey and his experiences with the Greenbrier River, you can explore these resources:

• Online Journals and Articles: There are various online sources that provide excerpts from Walker's journal and articles discussing his expedition.
• Historical Societies and Libraries: Local historical societies and libraries in West Virginia often have collections related to early exploration and settlement in the region.
• Academic Studies: Scholars have conducted research on Walker's journey and its impact on the history of the Greenbrier River Valley.

By delving deeper into these resources, you can gain a richer understanding of Walker's contributions to the exploration and development of this region.