About Montgomery County

Since its founding in the eighteenth century, Montgomery County has experienced a rich history in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology with ties to notable historical figures to include George Washington and Daniel Boone. The county has experienced consistent growth throughout the years.

The county provides a full range of services to its nearly 100,000 residents to include: law enforcement; fire and rescue; planning and GIS; economic development; social services; courts; parks and recreation; animal control; libraries; and schools.

Montgomery County — which is home to two of the state’s four largest towns, Blacksburg and Christiansburg — is a high-tech community strategically located on the Interstate 81 corridor. The community is also known for its abundance of outdoor recreation offerings, including cycling and walking the Huckleberry Trail; hiking and exploring Pandapas Pond in the Jefferson National Forest; and floating and fishing on the New River.

Past & Present

Montgomery County traces its origin to 1776 when it was formed and named after General Richard Montgomery, a hero of the American Revolution. The first settlement, Draper’s Meadows, was established in the 1740s but was destroyed by Shawnee Indians during the French and Indian War.

Christiansburg, the county seat, was incorporated in 1792 and named in honor of Colonel William Christian. This community was an important stop on the Wilderness Road, which roughly corresponds to the present day U.S. Route 11. As the retail hub of the county, Christiansburg is host to several shopping centers and restaurants.

Blacksburg was incorporated in 1871. The town originated on tracts of land donated by William Black — for whom it was named — and was established at the same site as the previous settlement of Draper’s Meadows. Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, one of the nation’s leading educational institutions and research universities, which is also known for its accomplishments in athletics as well as cultural and event offerings at the Moss Arts Center.