Getting To Know Virginia

Considered the “Mother of Presidents”, Virginia is the place of birth of eight (8) Presidents of the United States of America. These U.S. Presidents are George Washington – the first US President, Thomas Jefferson – third, James Madison –  

fourth, James Monroe – fifth, William Harrison – ninth, John Tyler – tenth, Zachary Taylor – twelfth, and Woodrow Wilson – twenty eighth president.

Virginia is a southeastern US state located in the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It ranks as the 12^th most populated state in the US with a population of 7.7 million as of 2007 estimates. Virginia also ranks 35^th in terms of the territorial area with its population scattered in a population density of 69.4 per square kilometer.

Named after the Queen Elizabeth I – the Virgin Queen of England, Virginia was founded in 1607 as first English colony in the new world. Considered as one of the most historic states in the US, Virginia was one of American Revolution’s thirteen colonies and part of the American Civil War’s Confederacy. Richmond is Virginia’s capital city.

Virginia’s typical weather is sub-tropical, mostly humid and with temperate rainfall all year round. During summer months, the average temperature rarely exceeds 32 degrees centigrade – considerably pleasant and with mild, snowy winter.

Gifted with rich history and famous people, Virginia is also a great historical and tourist destination.
Here are the must-see places in Virginia.

• Arlington National Cemetery – with the burning eternal flame at John F. Kennedy’s grave site.
• Iwo Jima Marine Memorial – a symbol for the heroes of U.S. Marine Corps who died for America during the Second World War.
• Mount Vernon Estate – is the Mansion house of the first U.S. President – George Washington. Its garden is famous for its beauty overlooking Potomac River.
• Edgar Allan Poe Museum – located in Richmond and houses the relics and writings of the famous writer. It also contains many of Poe’s personal belongings and a center for his fans.
• Monticello, Ash Lawn, Montpelier – beautiful mansions owned by other U.S. Presidents – Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and James Madison respectively. 
• Potomac River – a very scenic and historical river in the U.S. with views of Alexandria, Mount Vernon, and Washington DC captivated the tourist cruising on the river.
• Norfolk – considered the largest among the world’s naval bases. USS Wisconsin – the last battleship made by the US navy is stationed here.
• Blue-Ridge Mountains – the scenic mountain crest where most tourists enjoy canoeing along the Shenandoah Park, hiking, horse riding, and many other activities.

Aside from its historical importance, Virginia has many interesting, colorful facts and trivia.
Here are some quick facts and trivia on Virginia.

• The state dictum is “Sic Semper Tyrannis”.
• The first peanut in the U.S. was grown in Virginia.
• Virginia’s major crop is tobacco and its industry is the main livelihood for many of Virginia’s people.
• Richmond is Virginia’s capital but its most populated city is Virginia Beach.
• Jamestown is the earliest settlement of the English and is also Virginia’s first capital.
• Seven US Presidents were laid to rest in Virginia: Washington, Madison, Jefferson, Monroe, Taft, Tyler, and Kennedy.
• Aside from eight (8) US Presidents born in Virginia, six (6) President’s wives were also born in Virginia: Martha Washington, Rachel Jackson, Martha Jefferson, Letitia Tyler, Edith Wilson, and Ellen Arthur.
• The City of Richmond – its capital was also the Confederacy’s capital.
• Virginia hosted the end of American Revolution with Cornwallis’ surrender and the site of its final victory.
• Virginia is the center of American Civil War with more than half of battles fought here.
• The Virginia is the site of the North Americas first Thanksgiving.
• Virginia is the home of the only museum for Oyster in the world and the biggest bridge-tunnel.
• Virginia is the home of NATO’s headquarters for the Atlantic.
• Virginia is considered the World’s Internet Capital.
• The Pentagon is situated in Arlington, Virginia.
• Virginia’s airport Dulles is one of the world’s busiest airports.
• Virginia is nicknamed the “Old Dominion” by the King of England Charles II for its loyalty during the time of “The Restoration”.
• The world’s largest Shipyard is located in Virginia.