Our History
Steeped in history and heritage, Appomattox County was the scene of General Robert E. Lee’s surrender that ended the War Between the States. On April 9, 1865, in the home of Wilbur McLean in the village of Appomattox Court House, the Confederate Army surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant, thus bringing to a close the Civil War. In the years since that time, Appomattox County has become increasingly famous as the place where the country was reunited. The site of the surrender has been restored and become a national park under the auspices of the National Park Service.

Appomattox County was formed in 1845 from parts of Buckingham, Prince Edward, Charlotte and Campbell counties. The county was named for the Appomattox River, whose name came from the Indian tribe living near the mouth of the river.

Location
Located at the geographical center of Virginia, Appomattox County encompasses 342 square miles of land. Its advantageous location in the center of the state provides the county easy access to many major markets and attractions. Nearby cities include Lynchburg (18 miles), Roanoke (79 miles) and Richmond (80 miles).

Community
Although the area is rural, less than three percent of the population depends totally upon agriculture for a livelihood. Approximately fifty percent of the work force is employed in Lynchburg and surrounding areas. Those persons work in textiles, forestry, furniture production, trucking, electronics, the professions, government and small service businesses. Approximately 13,200 persons reside in Appomattox County and Towns of Appomattox and Pamplin.

Recreation programs are offered by the county town and private sources. Public facilities include a community center, children’s park, ball fields, tennis courts and basketball courts. Additional recreational opportunities are provided at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, Holliday Lake State Park, Paradise Lake and campground, hiking trails and picnic areas. Surrounding areas within driving distance of Appomattox provide opportunities for many recreational activities including golf, tennis, swimming, water skiing, snow skiing, hiking, bowling, theaters and cultural programs.