Birthplace of Sam Houston, Lexington is a small historical Virginian town not far from the border with West Virginia. It offers many attractions amid fabulous scenery and Civil War attractions, and is known for its unique shops and restaurants.
A walk or a horse-drawn carriage ride around the downtown area is the best way to get a feel for this place. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, downtown is one for the heritage buff, featuring restored, quaint buildings and more than 40 retail shops.
Two of the most prominent figures connected with Lexington, Thomas Jackson and Sam Houston, have left their mark in the form of the Stonewall Jackson House and a huge lump of pink granite. Jackson was a famous Confederate General and his home remains on East Washington street. The statesman/soldier, Sam Houston was governor of both Tennessee and Texas, and the 17-ton Texas pink granite memorial marks his birthplace.
Highlights
Stonewall Jackson House: guided tours provide an insight into Jackson|Jackson’s family life in the restored house.
Clark’s Ole Time Music Center: features live bluegrass on Friday nights in a family-friendly environment.
Wade’s Mill: also on the National Register of Historic Places, this working water-powered flourmill has a shop with Wade’s Mill flours, pottery, basketry and cooking classes.
Buffalo Springs Herb Farm: also near Lexington Virginia, garden tours of this 18th century farmstead are interesting and many products are available for purchase.
VMI Museum: recounts the history of the Virginia Military Institute, which claims to be the single US institute to have sent its entire student population into battle.
George C Marshall Museum: the Nobel Peace Prize winner is remembered for his post WWII plan for the reconstruction of Europe and role as secretary of state.