Henry County, Virginia

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Henry County
U.S. county
County of Henry
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Coordinates:
Country	United States
Seat	Martinsville
Area
• Total	384 sq mi (990 km2)
• Land	382 sq mi (990 km2)
• Water	2.2 sq mi (6 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	50,081
• Density	130/sq mi (50/km2)

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

Henry County is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 50,081. The county seat is Martinsville. Henry County is part of the Martinsville Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Henry County was established in 1777 from Pittsylvania County. It was named for Patrick Henry, the first Governor of Virginia and a prominent figure in the American Revolution. The county has a rich history, including its role in the Civil War and its development as a center for the textile and furniture industries.

Geography

Henry County is located in the southern part of Virginia, bordering North Carolina. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 384 square miles, of which 382 square miles is land and 2.2 square miles is water. The county is characterized by its rolling hills and the presence of the Smith River.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 50,081 people, 21,000 households, and 14,000 families residing in the county. The population density was 131 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was 75% White, 20% African American, and 5% from other races.

Economy

Historically, Henry County's economy was based on the textile and furniture industries. However, in recent years, the county has diversified its economy to include sectors such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The county is also home to several industrial parks and has made efforts to attract new businesses.

Education

Henry County is served by the Henry County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also home to Patrick & Henry Community College, which offers a range of associate degree programs and workforce training.

Transportation

The county is served by several major highways, including U.S. Route 220 and U.S. Route 58. The Blue Ridge Airport provides general aviation services to the area.

Communities

City

• Martinsville (independent city, county seat)

Towns

• Ridgeway

Unincorporated communities

• Axton
• Bassett
• Collinsville
• Fieldale
• Spencer

Notable People

• Patrick Henry, namesake of the county and prominent figure in the American Revolution.
• Martinsville Seven, a group of African American men executed in 1951, whose case drew national attention.

See Also

• Martinsville, Virginia
• Patrick Henry
• Smith River (Virginia)
• Henry County Public Schools (Virginia)