Lots to see for the whole family
Historic Smithfield Plantation
William Preston, a leader of westward expansion and a prominent Southwestern Virginia Revolutionary War patriot came to settle at the eastern continental divide and established Smithfield as his home. In a land of log cabins and physical hardship, Smithfield, in its sophisticated elegance, became the political and social center of Fincastle County, Virginia (1772). Of course, the newly-formed County included all of Southwest Virginia and all of what is now the Commonwealth of Kentucky, a rather large area indeed.
Completed in 1774, Smithfield became not only the county's political and social center, it was a beacon, a destination, for thousands of settlers moving west to seek new land and opportunity. Smithfield became a place of resting and storing new provisions before the next leg of the westward passage.
Travel back to the 18th century. Experience life in the home of a colonial leader with the guidance of a costumed interpreter who knows the culture as well as the artifacts.
Alexander Black House & Cultural Center Gift Shop
204 Draper Rd SW
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Discover Blacksburg's art, history, & culture at the Alexander Black House & Cultural Center. The restored Queen Anne Victorian home features a gift shop with locally made arts, crafts, books music & more.
Alexander Black House & Cultural Foundation
204 Draper Rd
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Visitors will enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and elegant surroundings of this historic venue; thought provoking exhibitions of art and history; meeting and special event accommodations; lovely gardens; and cultural heritage programs for all ages and interests.
Historic Smithfield Plantation
1000 Smithfield Plantation Road
Blacksburg, VA 24060
The Smithfield-Preston Foundation serves to (1) preserve and protect Smithfield, the region’s most important historic site and property and (2) to interpret the heritage of the region through Smithfield.
Seek. Education.Explore.DiScover. SEEDS
107 Wharton Street, S.E.
P.O. Box 824
Blacksburg, VA 24063
Founded in 1995, SEEDS has a mission to inspire a natural curiosity and love for the environment in children and the young at heart through discovery learning, nature education, teacher support, and civic awareness.