Wythe County was formed from Montgomery County in 1790. It was named after George Wythe, the first Virginian signer of the Declaration of Independence. During the Civil War the Battle of Cove Mountain was fought in the county.
Wythe County is also home to the Austinville community which was founded by Stephen and his brother Moses Austin, father of the famous Stephen F. Austin. In the 1790's the Austins took over the mines that produced lead and zinc. Lead was mined and shipped throughout the fledgling country. Shot was also produced utilizing the drop process.
Located near Fosters Falls, the old shot tower still stands as a testament to the citizens of Wythe County. Lead was hoisted to the top of the tower using block and tackle and oxen. The lead was melted in a retort and then poured through a sieve at the top of the tower. The droplets of molten lead would become round during the 150 foot descent. The shot would collect in a kettle of water and workers would enter through a 110 foot access tunnel located near the bank of the New River to retrieve the shot from the kettle.
The lead mines closed in 1982 due to new EPA standards and the lack of market for lead. the mines have since filled with water; the main shaft extended in excess of 1100 feet straight down.
Another notable community is Fort Chiswell. A pyramid marker stands along the I-81 and I-77 intersection. The community was named for Colonel Chiswell who helped establish the mines (1757) prior to the Austin's purchase. Wythe County (established in 1790) was once part of Montgomery County, but the courts became so busy that a new county was formed to allow for a smaller jurisdiction.
Wythe County's location, at the confluence of Interstate 81 and Interstate 77 which is, incidentally, a wrong-way concurrency, has led to its growth for industry and tourism. Recently Gatorade and Pepsi manufacturing facilities have located here, primarily due to the ease of access and central location along the Eastern seabord. There are a variety of travel-related businesses including several hundred hotel rooms, several truck stops, and restaurants located in the county.
Tourism takes a variety of different forms in Wythe County. There are numerous opportunities for those that enjoy outdoor activities including a variety of trails, campgrounds, and parks in the area. Its first winery opened in 2006 and a second is due to open in 2008. A dinner theatre is located in the county seat, Wytheville.
Transcribed and submitted by: your host
