Franklin County, Virginia

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Franklin County
U.S. county
County of Franklin
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Coordinates:
Country	United States
Seat	Rocky Mount
Area
• Total	712 sq mi (1,840 km2)
• Land	690 sq mi (1,800 km2)
• Water	22 sq mi (60 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	54,021
• Density	76/sq mi (29/km2)

[[Category:{{{state}}} counties]]

Franklin County is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 54,021. Its county seat is Rocky Mount. Franklin County is part of the Roanoke Metropolitan Statistical Area and is located in the Blue Ridge foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

History

Franklin County was established in 1786 from parts of Bedford and Henry counties. It was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin. The county has a rich history, including its role in the American Civil War and its reputation as the "Moonshine Capital of the World" during Prohibition.

Geography

Franklin County covers a total area of 712 square miles, of which 690 square miles is land and 22 square miles is water. The county is characterized by its rolling hills, valleys, and the presence of Smith Mountain Lake, a large reservoir that is a popular destination for recreation.

Adjacent counties

• Bedford County - northeast
• Pittsylvania County - southeast
• Henry County - south
• Patrick County - southwest
• Floyd County - west
• Roanoke County - northwest

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Franklin County had a population of 54,021. The county has a diverse population with a mix of urban and rural communities. The largest town and county seat is Rocky Mount.

Economy

The economy of Franklin County is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The presence of Smith Mountain Lake has boosted the local economy through tourism and real estate development.

Education

Franklin County is served by the Franklin County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Franklin County High School.

Transportation

Major highways that run through Franklin County include U.S. Route 220 and Virginia State Route 40. The county is also served by the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Communities

Towns

• Boones Mill
• Rocky Mount

Census-designated places

• Ferrum
• North Shore
• Union Hall
• Westlake Corner

Unincorporated communities

• Callaway
• Glade Hill
• Penhook
• Redwood
• Wirtz

Notable people

• Booker T. Washington, an influential African American educator, author, and advisor to multiple presidents of the United States, was born in Franklin County.

See also

• Smith Mountain Lake
• Blue Ridge Mountains
• Roanoke, Virginia
• American Civil War
• Prohibition in the United States