My Virginia

Virginia is located at the very northern tip of the South- or the Southern end of the Mid-Atlantic region, whichever way you look at it. We Virginians are Northern-Southerners. Because of this, Virginia is in a unique position. Her cultural identity was firmly rooted in the Old South, but  with the advent of the jet plane, Virginia is at New York's doorstep! Northern Virginia, close to Washington D.C., is a melting pot of people from all nations and all backgrounds. Spreading out as far as Winchester to the west, and stemming from Fairfax and Loudoun County to the East, and as far south as Fredericksburg. This area with its transient feel, represents a culture far removed from Old Virginia, despite having its old roots left in the plantation homes and historic markers and schools named after Confederate Generals. This is also the most liberal area of Virginia, and pushed Virginia into a "blue state" during both the 2008 and 2012 elections, although by a narrow margin. ...

When I joined the Sons of Confederate Veterans, it was hard to choose which ancestor to use, for I have so many. But I chose John Campbell Hagan of Richmond, who owned a grocery store on Venable Street. He was moved by a speech at St. Paul's Church that the Reverend gave in favor of Virginia and the South defending their homes. So, just a little after April 1861, he joined the Confederate Army and served in the 10th Battalion. While many of my ancestors did have servants and slaves, I think they were not even considering that when defending their right for States of Independence. The War of Northern Aggression left a mark on all of Southern Soil, but most notably Virginia. For it was in Virginia where most all the battles during the entire campaign took place. It is so very much a part of our history and pride. The flag to me is not a symbol of hate, but to honor our ancestors who so bravely fought for their noble cause. And justly doing so, as it is part of our American Constitu...