Louisa County, Virginia

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Louisa County, Virginia is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 37,596. The county seat is Louisa. Louisa County is part of the Charlottesville Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Louisa County was established in 1742 from Hanover County. It was named for Louisa of Great Britain, the youngest daughter of King George II and Queen Caroline of Ansbach. The county has a rich history, including its role in the American Civil War, where it was the site of the Battle of Trevilian Station, the largest all-cavalry battle of the war.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 511 square miles (1,320 km²), of which 496 square miles (1,280 km²) is land and 15 square miles (39 km²) (2.9%) is water. The county is characterized by its rolling hills and numerous lakes and rivers, including Lake Anna.

Demographics

As of the census of 2020, there were 37,596 people, 14,673 households, and 10,276 families residing in the county. The population density was 75 people per square mile (29/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 75.6% White, 18.2% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 2.4% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.8% of the population.

Economy

The economy of Louisa County is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county is also home to the North Anna Nuclear Generating Station, which provides a substantial number of jobs and contributes to the local economy.

Education

Louisa County Public Schools operates several schools in the county, including Louisa County High School. The county is also served by the Piedmont Virginia Community College.

Transportation

Major highways in Louisa County include Interstate 64, U.S. Route 33, and U.S. Route 522. The county is also served by the Buckingham Branch Railroad.

Communities

Towns

• Louisa
• Mineral

Unincorporated communities

• Bumpass
• Cuckoo
• Gordonsville (partially in Orange County)

Notable People

• Thomas Walker, explorer and physician
• James Madison, fourth President of the United States, was born in nearby Port Conway but had family ties to Louisa County.

See Also

• Battle of Trevilian Station
• Lake Anna
• North Anna Nuclear Generating Station
• Charlottesville, Virginia