Washington and Lee University was founded in the Lexington area in 1749 and was originally named the Augusta Academy. Because of contributions by George Washington and later Robert E Lee, the name of the college was changed to Washington and Lee. It’s interesting to note that this institution is the ninth oldest in the country.
It’s hard to imagine but in Lexington, a small town of 7,100 permanent residents, there is another institution of higher learning. The Virginia Military Institute was founded in 1839 and its curriculum was very specific; to educate military leaders through a rigid lifestyle and discipline. To date VMI has graduated more Army Generals than any other ROTC program in the U.S. The Who’s Who of distinguished alumni is long and impressive.
The town of Lexington’s birth coincided and grew with the colleges and was incorporated in1841.The main source of industry in Lexington has been academia, and in later years tourism. Today Lexington is a thriving town located in the Shenandoah Valley. The down town area is rustic and gives you a sense of history. There are lazy walks along Main Street and carriage rides to tour the town. As with most college towns, Lexington has a huge number of eateries ranging from casual to fine dining as well as outdoor cafes and drinking establishments.
There are many natural wonders within easy reach of Lexington. The Natural Bridge, vineyards, shopping malls, miles of Blue Ridge Mountain roads to enjoy, and two national forests to ease through and relish the sights, smells and sounds are literally minutes away from downtown Lexington.
So, if you have a child that college age or you just want to take a break for a few days or weeks, come to Lexington and see for yourself. The beauty and friendliness is a memory that will last forever.