Threads of History: Exploring the Hoge Family's Heritage in Giles County, Virginia

Wheatland Model

In the picturesque landscapes of Virginia, where history whispers through the rustling leaves and murmurs in the flowing streams, the Hoge family's story weaves a tale of migration, opportunity, and enduring familial bonds. Rooted in Montgomery County, which emerged into Pulaski County and branched out to Giles County, the Hoges epitomize the pioneering spirit that shaped the region's history.

A Family's Journey: From Pulaski to Giles County

The story of the Hoge family takes place in the midst of Virginia's stunning natural scenery. It all began with General James Hoge, a well-known figure in Pulaski County, who laid the foundation for the family's lasting heritage through his determination and vision. His wife, Eleanor Howe, affectionately called him Jamie. The general constructed a gorgeous brick structure now known as Belle-Hampton.

Joseph Haven Hoge and Susan Sayers Crockett Hoge

His son, Joseph Haven Hoge, emerges as a central figure among his descendants, poised to leave an indelible mark on Giles County. Joseph Haven Hoge's journey to Giles County was not merely a geographic shift but a testament to familial ties and the promise of new beginnings. Upon his marriage to Susan Crockett Sayers in 1843, General James Hoge gave his son a generous wedding gift: thousands of acres of land in the fertile valleys of what is known as Hoges Store (now Hoges Chapel). Joseph embarked on a new chapter with this inheritance, bringing with him the Hoge family's tradition of resilience, stewardship, community spirit, and many artifacts from the Belle-Hampton home.

In the latter part of 1840, he built an impressive house named Wheatland. The mansion had a front colonial portico lined with boxwoods and another on the entrance on the east side. The grand eight-room residence boasted a winding staircase that led to a spacious central hallway on the second level. This wood-paneled hallway was divided into four rooms on the upper floor and opened onto a central porch above the house's front entrance. The rooms were adorned with beautiful furniture from previous generations. The family's burial grounds were located nearby.

During the Civil War era, this home in Giles County was famously known as "The Hoge Mansion" to the Union army. In 1864, General Crook, the leader of the Federal forces, was leading his troops back into newly formed West Virginia through the Salt Sulfur turnpike. This route led them from Montgomery County, through Newport, and across the mountains by Mountain Lake. As they reached the end of Salt Pond Mountain, they placed a brass cannon on a point overlooking the valley and attempted to shell the Hoge Mansion. However, the valley was covered in a heavy fog, which made it difficult for the gunners to get the correct range, and thus, the mansion escaped any serious damage. Although one cannonball did hit the chimney and caused some harm, the house remained intact for now.

Civil War Cannon Ball that hit Wheatland

The Legacy of Joseph Haven Hoge

Joseph and Susan had a total of 11 children. Unfortunately, only half of their children survived into adulthood. One of their daughters, Senah, married Abram Reynolds, whose brother was R.J. Reynolds. Abram's social status was believed to improve after his marriage to Senah, as the Hoges were considered a prominent family. Despite being associated with the tobacco business, Abram distanced himself from it due to religious reasons that were encouraged by his wife. However, Abram and his son started Reynolds Wrap, which is now a well-known brand.

Joseph Hoge was a prominent member of Giles County, and his farmland was rich and flourishing. It was noted that a vein of black marble considered the best in America, ran through his property. He eventually sold that portion of the property for $20,000 so it could be turned into a quarry.

The Abandoned Cemetery

Joseph Haven Hoge and Susan Crockett Sayers Hoge

Today, the echoes of the Hoge family can still be heard throughout the hills and valleys of Giles County, just off the highway. Though the house was destroyed by vandalism in 1988 and the bricks have been repurposed for the new Eco Park entrance, the silo remains as the only visible reminder of the estate. The stately tombstones of the proprietors of a time long ago have been resurrected to honor those of the past. While we have been told that the bodies were moved to Birchlawn cemetery, the memories of what once was live on only through the stories passed down through the generations.

Wheatland Silo

From the fertile fields nurtured by generations of Hoge's hands to the enduring values of integrity, hard work, and kinship, their legacy inspires all who call Giles County home. As we reflect on the journey of the Hoge family, we are reminded of the power of resilience, familial bonds, and the timeless connection to the land. In honoring their legacy, we pay tribute to the pioneers whose courage and vision laid the groundwork for the vibrant community that thrives in Giles County today.