Much genealogical information is included.
After an illuminating account of the history of Patrick and Henry counties, which occupies the first third of the book, the authors turn their attention to genealogy, providing authoritative histories of no fewer than 110 families. The genealogies generally begin with the first settler in either Patrick or Henry County and proceed to enumerate descendants in several generations, providing incidental detail according to the materials available. In addition to the remarkable collection of genealogies, the book also contains transcriptions of important genealogical source materials, such as the Patrick and Henry land grants and patents registered in the old Land Office in Richmond. As one on the great migration trails of Colonial America, the Shenandoah Valley is rich in genealogical and historical sources for people interested in tracing their ancestors. Within the Valley, however, facilities and services for genealogists vary greatly, and almost without exception, Clerks of Court are unable to conduct genealogical research.