Virginia

Do you like to visit historical sites and play outside in forests, rivers, or oceans? If you answer, Yes,
then Virginia would be a wonderful place for you to live. Virginia is very historical with several major events in
the history of our county having occurred there. Virginia also has many different regions that contain different
types of natural features. From mountains, to rolling hills, to rivers and oceans, Virginia has everything a nature
lover would want!
Virginia was founded in 1607 by the Virginia Company. They settled in Jamestown. Jamestown is
located near the coast. It was special because it was the first permanent colony that England settled in North
America. Later the colony was named Virginia after Queen Elizabeth I of England. When the states formed and
fought for their independence from England, Virginia played a very important part. The Revolutionary War was
ended when the British surrendered in Yorktown, Virginia. Virginia became a state in 1788 and was the 10th
state. Many years later, the states were divided and fighting the Civil War. The final battle of the war was
fought in Appomattox, Va. This was the sight of the surrender.
Virginia is not just about history. Its also about geography. Virginia is triangle shaped and is separated
into five regions. Each region has its own geographic features. The Appalachian Mountains fill up the western
regions of the state while coastal, swampy areas define the east. The center is special because it has rolling,
green hills. Virginia also has many rivers. The main rivers are the James, Potomac, and Shenandoah. These
rivers attract a lot of people because of the swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing. The eastern shore of
Virginia is next to the Atlantic Ocean. You could go from snowy mountains to a sunny beach all in a days
drive without ever leaving the state!
Virginia goes by a few nicknames. Old Dominion is the most common. IT is also called the Mother of
Presidents because 8 presidents where born there. George Washington has a home called Mt. Vernon and
Thomas Jeffersons Monticello is a very popular tourist attraction. The state flower is the American Dogwood
and the state bird is the Cardinal. Both of these symbols are seen commonly on different Virginia landmarks.
The state flag has the states motto written on it. Sic Semper Tyrannis means Thus Always to Tyrants. The

flag shows the goddess Virtue holding a sword and spear. She has defeated a tyrant. She stands over him. Virtue
symbolizes Virginia while the tyrant is meant to be England.
Virginia has played a very important role in the history of the United States of America. It was the site
of many historical events and the home to many historical people. Virginia is also unique in its geography and
land features. It is a state that many people call home and love. If these facts interest you, it could be your new
home!
Works Cited
Enchanted Learning- Virginia
Kids.gov
Infoplease- Origin of State Names
Factmonster.com- Virginia
Geology.com- US Map Collection, Virginia