VA-Z255 Bedford County

Marker text: BEDFORD COUNTY

Bedford County was probably named for John Russell, fourth duke of Bedford. Russell, as secretary of state for the Southern Department from 1748 to 1751, had general supervision of colonial affairs. Bedford was formed from Lunenburg County in 1753 and parts of Albemarle and Lunenburg Counties were later added. The county seat is Bedford. The scenic Peaks of Otter as well as Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson's country retreat, are located in this county.

Department of Historic Resources, 1997.