Mecklenburg County, Virginia

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Mecklenburg_County_Courthouse

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Mecklenburg County, Virginia is a county located in the southern part of the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 30,319. The county seat is Boydton.

History

Mecklenburg County was established in 1765 from Lunenburg County. It was named for Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the queen consort of King George III of the United Kingdom. The county has a rich history, including its role in the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 679 square miles (1,760 km²), of which 625 square miles (1,620 km²) is land and 54 square miles (140 km²) (8.0%) is water. The county is bordered by the Roanoke River and includes several large lakes, including Kerr Lake and Lake Gaston.

Adjacent Counties

• Lunenburg County (north)
• Charlotte County (northwest)
• Halifax County (west)
• Brunswick County (east)
• Granville County, North Carolina (south)
• Vance County, North Carolina (south)
• Warren County, North Carolina (southwest)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 30,319 people, 12,000 households, and 8,000 families residing in the county. The population density was 48 people per square mile (19/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 60% White, 35% Black or African American, 1% Native American, 1% Asian, and 3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2% of the population.

Economy

The economy of Mecklenburg County is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county's lakes and natural resources attract visitors for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Education

Mecklenburg County is served by the Mecklenburg County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also home to the Southside Virginia Community College.

Communities

Towns

• Boydton
• Chase City
• Clarksville
• La Crosse
• South Hill

Unincorporated Communities

• Baskerville
• Bracey
• Buffalo Junction
• Skipwith

Notable People

• Patrick Henry, a Founding Father and the first Governor of Virginia, practiced law in Mecklenburg County.
• Nathaniel Macon, a prominent politician and Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, was born in Mecklenburg County.

See Also

• List of counties in Virginia
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Mecklenburg County, Virginia