Lee County, Virginia

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Lee_County,_Virginia

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County in Virginia, United States

Lee County

General Information
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Settlement Type	U.S. county
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Population
Total	22773
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Lee County is a county located in the far southwestern part of the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 22,773. Its county seat is Jonesville. The county was formed in 1792 from part of Russell County. It was named for Henry Lee III, also known as "Light-Horse Harry," who was the Governor of Virginia from 1791 to 1794.

History

Lee County was established on October 25, 1792, from a portion of Russell County. The county was named in honor of Henry Lee III, a Revolutionary War hero and the ninth Governor of Virginia. The county has a rich history, including its role in the early settlement of the Appalachian region and its involvement in the Civil War.

Geography

Lee County is located in the southwestern tip of Virginia, bordered by Harlan County, Kentucky to the northwest, Bell County, Kentucky to the west, and Claiborne County, Tennessee to the south. The county covers a total area of 437 square miles, of which 436 square miles is land and 1.3 square miles is water.

The county is characterized by its mountainous terrain, part of the Appalachian Mountains. The Cumberland Gap is a notable geographic feature in the county, historically significant as a key passageway through the mountains.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Lee County had a population of 22,773. The population density was 52 people per square mile. The county has a diverse demographic composition, with a mix of rural and small-town communities.

Economy

The economy of Lee County has traditionally been based on agriculture, coal mining, and timber. In recent years, there has been a shift towards service industries and small manufacturing. The county is also focusing on tourism, leveraging its natural beauty and historical significance.

Education

Lee County is served by the Lee County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also home to the Mountain Empire Community College, which provides higher education opportunities to residents.

Communities

Towns

• Jonesville (county seat)
• Pennington Gap
• St. Charles

Unincorporated communities

• Ben Hur
• Dryden
• Ewing
• Keokee
• Rose Hill

Notable People

• Henry Lee III, namesake of the county and a prominent figure in Virginia's history.

See Also

• List of counties in Virginia
• Appalachian Mountains
• Cumberland Gap
• Mountain Empire Community College

External Links

• Lee County Official Website