Bedford

Bedford is a town in Virginia serving as the county seat and situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The surrounding area features rolling terrain where the Peaks of Otter rise above the northern horizon.

The town was founded in 1782 as Liberty and renamed Bedford City in 1890 before reverting to town status in 2013. These changes reflect the shifting development and role of the settlement across more than two centuries.

The National D-Day Memorial here honors nineteen local soldiers who died during the 1944 Normandy invasion. The site carries deep meaning for residents who maintain this connection to World War II history and share it with visitors.

The town sits between Roanoke and Lynchburg, accessible via U.S. Route 221 and Route 460 for easy travel connections. Visitors will find straightforward road access to nearby larger cities.

The town has operated its own electrical utility since the late 1800s, a system that originated during the region's industrial expansion. This independent power company continues to serve residents today.

Location: Bedford County

Inception: 1782

Elevation above the sea: 306 m

Website: http://bedfordva.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.33459,-79.52278

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:05