Emma Lee Swaitzers, a Rockingham, VA-based entrepreneur and blogger.
Emma Lee Switzer was conceived December 12, 1866 in Rockingham, Virginia. Emma’s father, a blacksmith, and her mother, a housewife, were both employed. Emma was the youngest of four siblings. She also had three brothers.
The family struggled to survive and was often living in poverty. Emma’s parents ensured Emma and her siblings a good education, despite their poverty. She attended the local school until her sixteenth birthday.
In the years that followed, she attended the Rockingham Female Institute. After graduating, Emma was a teacher. Emma worked as a teacher for many decades before she married John Switzer, 1892. They had three children together.
John Switzer, a successful entrepreneur, and his family lived comfortably. Emma supported them in raising their children at home. In 1910, the family moved to Staunton to receive a better education. Emma died in 1948. They lived happily in Rockingham. They continued to live in Staunton and continue to work.
History and Rockingham
English colonists settled Rockingham, Virginia in 1727. It was originally named Winchester, an English town. It was later renamed Rockingham in honor of the Earl Rockingham. Rockingham was a major centre of commerce and trade during the 18th and 19th century.
Rockingham, a small town of just over 4000 people, is still relevant today. Hernando, about 100 miles west from Washington, D.C., can be found in the Shenandoah Valley. It is a charming, historic town.
Rockingham
Rockingham, Virginia is home to approximately 25,000 people. Shenandoah Valley is located approximately 60 miles west from Charlottesville. Rockingham was founded in 1749. Rockingham is home many historic landmarks, such as the Rockingham Courthouse (1780 Rockingham Courthouse).
Rockingham offers both the charm of a small town and all the conveniences of big city living. Downtown Rockingham has many shops, restaurants and a movie theater. There is also a bowling alley. There are also community centers and libraries. Rockingham is an excellent place to call home if your goal is to see all of Virginia.
Schools in Rockingham
Rockingham, Virginia has many schools. She was a Rockingham Elementary School and Rockingham Middle School graduate. Spotswood High School is where she’s currently enrolled.
Rockingham Elementary School serves students in grades K-5. The school has approximately 500 students. The school offers extracurricular and academic programs.
Rockingham Middle School offers education for students in grades 6-8. The school has approximately 600 students. There are many extracurricular and academic activities offered by the school.
Students in grades 9-12 attend Spotswood High school. There are approximately 1,200 students at the school. The school offers both academic and extracurricular activities.
What are You Doing in Rockingham?
Rockingham, Virginia is home to just over 5,000 people. Rockingham is a small community with many amenities despite its small size.
Rockingham boasts a large park with picnic tables, a playground, and walking trails. There are also public swimming pools during the summer.
Rockingham has several restaurants and a movie theater. There are a few shops in Rockingham, along with a grocery store and clothing shop.
Rockingham is a wonderful place to call home if you’re looking for a small town with lots of activities. Rockingham is full of friendly and welcoming people, offering many activities.
How do I get there?
Rockingham can be found in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. From Washington, D.C., it takes about two hours to reach this location, while Richmond, Virginia takes three hours. There is an airport about an hour from Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO).
Rockingham is easily reached via I-81 North from Washington, D.C., Richmond, or Virginia Beach. The VA-279 East exit 257A will lead you toward Harrisonburg/Rockingham. Follow VA-279 East to Rockingham, which is approximately 17 miles.
The Conclusion
Emma Lee Switzer’s example shows how one person can make such a difference in their community. Emma would love to have you meet her if you are in the area.