History

History and genealogy buffs will love Louisa County.  Established in 1742, the County has a rich history and diverse heritage.

Louisa County is a genealogy goldmine, and people from all across the nation find they have roots here. Our courthouse records alone date back to the County’s founding in 1742.

The county is rich in Revolutionary and Civil War history. Patrick Henry lived in and represented Louisa in state government from 1765 to 1768. The Virginia Central Railroad ran through Louisa County and during the Civil War, it was an important supply line for Confederate armies. Several significant battles took place in the county, including the battle fought at Trevilians in 1864.

The Battle of Trevilian Station was the largest all-cavalry battle of the Civil War. Occurring on June 11-12, 1864, Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant ordered a raid along the Virginia Central Railroad. During the raid, the Union army was ordered to destroy the road at the crucial junction town of Gordonsville, and then march to Charlottesville and destroy the supply depot there. The battle lasted 2 days and ranged over 7,000 acres.

Green Springs Historic District in Louisa County is noted for preservation of rural historic estates and farms and is designated a National Historic Landmark.

To learn more about Louisa County's rich history, check out the Louisa County Historical Society.

Town of Mineral

The historic town of Mineral is also located in Louisa County.  Originally known as Tolersville, this charming town adopted its current name in 1902 from the many mines that supported the local economy. Iron, gold, zinc, lead and pyrite mines were all located in this area. At one time, no fewer than 15 gold mines were located within 2 miles of town. Pyrite is still mined in the county today.