Natural Bridge

Thursday June 25th at 10:00 AM

After the radio show, Len & Barbara picked me up and I had the good surprise to see my friend Linda. They took me to visit Natural Bridge.
The Bridge has been included in several “Seven Natural Wonders of the World” lists, mostly in the 19th and early 20th centuries.Natural Bridge and Niagara Falls were the two wonders of the new world that Europeans visited during the 18th & 19th centuries. Of the two sights, Natural Bridge, without clear explanation of its formation, was the more mysterious.

A very long time ago:  Natural Bridge was formed when a cavern collapsed and left the span that stands today.
A long time ago:  Monacan Indian legend has it that Natural Bridge appeared just as they needed to escape from an advancing enemy.
In 1750:  Young George Washington surveyed the Natural Bridge site for Lord Fairfax. Landmarks remain of the work and on the wall of the bridge where he carved his initials.
In 1754:  Just before the American Revolution and writing of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson purchased 157 acres of land including the Natural Bridge from King George III of England for 20 shillings. It has remained privately owned.
Late 1700’s:  Its development as a retreat began when Jefferson built a two room log cabin – one room was reserved for guests.
Early 1800’s:  In 1833, Jefferson’s heirs sold the site and the new owner erected the Forest Inn to accommodate the increasing number of people.
Late 1800’s:  During the 1880’s Natural Bridge attained resort status under the ownership of Colonel Henry Parsons.
Early 1900’s to now:  Natural Bridge continues to welcome visitors from all over the world.

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Tags: en route, Indian, Jefferson, Lace Waterfalls, Lost River, Monacan, Natural Bridge, Virginia