Explore 5 Historic Landmarks in Washington County, VA

Jay Huron

Virginia is a state with an incredibly rich past – a past that residents have protected and preserved by keeping important historic landmarks in good repair over the years. These landmarks pay homage to those who came before us and capture a glimpse of what it must have been like to live in days gone by. Here are five historic landmarks in Washington County alone that are worth the trip:

The Tavern in Abingdon

Founded: 1779

This building boasts two major accolades: it’s the oldest bar in Virginia – and the eighth oldest in the nation. The building served as both tavern and inn for those traveling by stagecoach, and even had kings and presidents as guests. Though the tavern has housed just about every type of business under the sun, it has now returned to its roots and operates as a bar and restaurant, serving up old-fashioned Virginian hospitality, just as originally intended.

Martha Washington Inn & Spa in Abingdon

Founded: 1832

A breathtakingly beautiful building, the Martha Washington Inn & Spa has served many functions over the year: a family home, a women’s college (Martha Washington College), a hospital and barracks for Civil War soldiers, and even a boarding house for Barter Theatre actors. Today, the building operates as a hotel and spa, welcoming visitors to “The Martha.” (It’s even rumored that some ghosts still haunt this legendary estate!)

Barter Theatre in Abingdon

Founded: 1933

Though the Barter Theatre company was founded in 1933, the building itself was built roughly 100 years before that. It was originally a church, then an opera house, then city hall, the town’s firehouse, a dentist’s office and even the town jail. Finally, in 1933, Barter Theatre was founded and has occupied the space ever since (and has even expanded across the street.) It’s a gorgeous building inside and out with an incredibly varied past. A number of well-known actors performed at the theater early in their careers, including Gregory Peck, Ernest Borgnine, Patricia Neal, Ned Beatty, Hume Cronyn and Frances Fisher.

Emory & Henry University in Emory

Founded: 1836

This private liberal arts university was established well before the Civil War and named for Methodist Bishop John Emory and Patrick Henry, one of the nation’s founding fathers and Virginia’s first post-Colonial governor. During the Civil War, the college closed and actually operated as a hospital and even battleground during that time. Many buildings constructed in that time period are still standing today, making up a historic district on campus which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Old Damascus Mill in Damascus

Built: 1821

Originally a grist mill, the Old Damascus Mill operated as such for over 100 years, albeit with multiple owners. Once mill operations ceased, ownership continued to change hands, with adjustments being made over time until it transformed into what it is today: the Damascus Old Mill Inn and Restaurant. It’s a beautiful spot to stay overnight or grab a delightful meal, enjoying the sound of the mill’s rushing waterfall.