History

History

The name Shenandoah is believed derived from that of an Indian tribe, the Senedos, of Shawnee-Algonquian extraction.  They lived in beautiful bottom-land called "Meems Bottoms" between Smith Creek and the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, just north of present-day New Market. Varying translations of the word Shenandoah also confirm "daughter of the stars" as encompassed in its meaning.

Important to the Shenandoah Valley is its prominent role in U.S. history.  During the Civil War, the Valley was caught in the struggle between Federals and Confederates in many important battles.  Valley Pike was recognized by Generals Robert E. Lee (left), "Stonewall" Jackson and J.E.B. Stuart as an extremely important transportation resource.  May 15, 1864 saw one example of many military operations in the Valley, a bloody day-long battle at New Market.  In this battle and throughout the War, the nearby village of Mt Pleasant, later called Mt Jackson in honor of General Andrew Jackson, was an important hospital town with its historic Union Church often used as a hospital.  Many other very Civil War operations left their marks on the Valley's roads and the hearts of the survivors and their descendants.

Take advantage of your stay in the Shenandoah Valley to explore the many museums and historical sites.  A wonderful starting point is the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (above) in nearby Winchester.

Learn about this and other historical attractions at the Shenandoah Valley Travel Association web site.