Buchanan County, Virginia

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County in Virginia, United States

Buchanan County

General Information
Name
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Settlement Type	U.S. county
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Location
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Population
Total	20252
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Standard	UTC
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[[Category:{{{state}}} counties]]

Buchanan County is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,252. Its county seat is Grundy. The county was established in 1858 and named in honor of James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States.

History

Buchanan County was formed in 1858 from parts of Russell and Tazewell counties. The county has a rich history tied to the coal mining industry, which has been a significant part of its economy and culture.

Geography

Buchanan County is located in the southwestern part of Virginia, in the Appalachian region. The county covers a total area of 504 square miles, of which 503 square miles is land and 1.3 square miles is water. The county is characterized by its mountainous terrain and is part of the Appalachian Mountains.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Buchanan County had a population of 20,252. The population density was approximately 40 people per square mile. The county has experienced a decline in population over the years, largely due to the downturn in the coal industry.

Economy

The economy of Buchanan County has historically been dominated by the coal mining industry. However, in recent years, the county has been working to diversify its economy by promoting tourism and other industries.

Education

Buchanan County is served by the Buchanan County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also home to the Appalachian School of Law and the Southwest Virginia Community College.

Transportation

Major highways in Buchanan County include U.S. Route 460 and Virginia State Route 83. The county is also served by several local roads and has access to regional airports.

Communities

Towns

• Grundy

Unincorporated communities

• Big Rock
• Hurley
• Oakwood
• Pilgrim's Knob

Notable People

• George C. Peery, former Governor of Virginia
• Willie Horton (criminal), whose case became a significant issue in the 1988 presidential campaign

See also

• List of counties in Virginia
• Appalachian Mountains
• Coal mining in the United States