Westmoreland County, Virginia

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Westmoreland County, Virginia
County
Location in the state of Virginia
Country	United States
State	Virginia
Founded	1653
County seat	Montross
Area
• Total	253 sq mi (660 km2)
• Land	229 sq mi (590 km2)
• Water	24 sq mi (60 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	18,677
• Density	74/sq mi (29/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (Eastern)

Westmoreland County is a county located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 18,677. Its county seat is Montross.

History

Westmoreland County was established in 1653 from territory that was previously part of Northumberland County. The county is named after the historic Westmorland region in England.

The county is notable for being the birthplace of several prominent figures in American history, including George Washington, the first President of the United States, and James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. Stratford Hall, the birthplace of Robert E. Lee, is also located in Westmoreland County.

Geography

Westmoreland County is situated on the Northern Neck peninsula, bordered by the Potomac River to the north and the Rappahannock River to the south. The county has a total area of 253 square miles, of which 229 square miles is land and 24 square miles is water.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 18,677 people residing in the county. The population density was approximately 81 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant African American and smaller Native American and Asian American populations.

Economy

The economy of Westmoreland County is diverse, with agriculture, tourism, and small businesses playing significant roles. The county's historical sites, such as George Washington Birthplace National Monument and Stratford Hall, attract numerous visitors each year.

Education

Westmoreland County is served by the Westmoreland County Public Schools system, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The county is also home to the Rappahannock Community College.

Notable People

• George Washington - First President of the United States
• James Monroe - Fifth President of the United States
• Robert E. Lee - Confederate General

Related Pages

• George Washington Birthplace National Monument
• Stratford Hall (plantation)
• Montross, Virginia
• Northern Neck
• Northumberland County, Virginia