A Visit to the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, VA

Dear Henry,

While in Lexington, Virginia, touring the Jackson House Museum, I also visited the Virginia Military Institute. Let me tell you all about it. 

The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) is tucked away in the scenic Shenandoah Valley in Lexington and offers a unique experience to history buffs, military enthusiasts, and curious travelers. Founded in 1839 as the first state-supported military college in the United States, it is more than just an academic institution—it's a living monument to American history, tradition, and leadership.

Spanning over 134 acres, the VMI campus is a mix of Gothic Revival architecture, expansive parade grounds, and modern facilities—yet everywhere you turn, you're reminded of the Institute's deep historical roots. The school's cadets are affectionately (and sometimes begrudgingly) known as "Rats."

One of the most sorrowful chapters in VMI's history is its role in the Battle of New Market in 1864. During the Civil War, 257 cadets, some as young as 15, were called into battle to fight for the Confederacy. Ten gave their lives, and their legacy is honored yearly during the New Market Parade and Roll Call ceremony.

The Institute is not just about military discipline; it's about forging leaders. Approximately 65% of graduates go on to serve in the armed forces, either through active duty or reserve commissions. And those who don't enter military service often lead in business, government, and civil service.

The Institute has produced an impressive roster of leaders, scholars, and public servants. Perhaps the most well-known is General George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. Then there's Jonathan M. Daniels, a civil rights martyr, killed on August 20, 1965, while shielding 17-year-old Ruby Sales in Haynesville, Alabama, and General Ryan McCarthy, former Secretary of the Army. The Institute has also produced 11 Rhodes Scholars.

Despite its relatively small size, the Virginia Military Institute is an NCAA Division I school, competing in the Southern Conference. Sports are central to cadet life and offer a balanced outlet to the rigorous academic and military schedule. VMI fields competitive teams in: Football, basketball, Cross Country, Lacrosse, Rifle, Swimming and Diving, Track and Field, and Wrestling

Over the years, alumni have earned numerous military honors, including seven who earned the Congressional Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military award. Their stories are shared and preserved on campus and through alumni records that honor the bravery and sacrifice of these cadets turned heroes.

A visit to the institute wouldn't be complete without a stop at the VMI Museum in the basement of Memorial Hall (formerly the VMI Chapel). Here, visitors can view personal effects from the Battle of New Market, the school's class rings, and other historical artifacts, including Stonewall Jackson's horse, named "Little Sorrel," which was preserved and is displayed after his natural death in 1886. A rare 800-piece firearms collection, which includes Lewis and Clark's air rifle, used during the legendary 1803 Northwest Expedition, an Artemis Wheeler revolving carbine, an incredibly rare firearm, and a fully engraved Porter rifle, one of only a handful in existence, and stunning examples of scrimshaw, 19th-century sailor carvings made on whale bone and ivory.

A visit to VMI is like stepping into a time capsule that blends honor, service, scholarship, and sacrifice. It's where the past meets the present and tradition guides the future. Whether you're a prospective cadet, a military history buff, or just passing through Lexington, the Virginia Military Institute offers a powerful and moving experience you will never forget.

Until my next adventure!

xoxo a.d. elliott

PS - There's a YouTube!  Find it here: https://youtu.be/Or0xyeEfPbs

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a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller living in Salem, Virginia. 

In addition to her travel writings at www.takethebackroads.com, you can also read her book reviews at www.riteoffancy.com and US military biographies at www.everydaypatriot.com

Her online photography gallery can be found at shop.takethebackroads.com

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