JONESVILLE, Va. — A new trails marker and monument commemorating the Civil War battle of Jonesville will be constructed in Lee County thanks in part to a grant valued up to $1,750 from the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA).
The funds will be used to help finance the construction and installation of the trails marker and monument at 160 Middle School Drive (Bulldog Circle) in Jonesville, according to a written statement.
The funds were awarded through the VCEDA Tourism Capital Improvement Matching Fund.
The Lee County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is involved in the tourism project as part of a collaborative effort among multiple stakeholders.
The project aims to establish a network of historical markers highlighting key Civil War sites in the region, with the initial focus being on the battle of Jonesville and the Dickinson-Milbourn House in Lee County.
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“According to the Lee County EDA application, the initiative will enhance heritage tourism by educating visitors, preserving local history and stimulating economic growth,” said VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher. “Future plans of the initiative include additional signage installations, the integration of digital resources such as QR codes linking to historical narratives and partnerships with local tourism organizations to create guided tours and special events.”
The battle of Jonesville was a significant event in the region’s Civil War history and the nearby Dickinson-Milbourn House is a registered historic site. The Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society is providing a 1:1 match for the VCEDA grant.
The new trail marker will be located on property owned by the Lee County school system and within the Virginia Department of Transportation’s right of way.
The application notes that heritage tourism remains a strong economic driver, particularly for Civil War enthusiasts, history scholars and cultural travelers. The project is expected to cater to those audiences by providing clear, engaging site interpretations.
“We are proud to partner with CWT and the Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society to bring this important chapter of local history to life. This investment not only honors our history but also supports our ongoing efforts to boost heritage tourism and economic development in the region,” said Lee County Community Development Director Leslie Litton.