Natural Bridge

By Ernst H. Kastning PhD

Natural Bridge, located in the historic Shenandoah Valley, is one of the most recognized and visited geologic landmarks in the country. The massive 90-foot-wide arch spans Cedar Creek, which runs 200 feet below. Legend says that George Washington, as a young land surveyor, carved his initials on its wall. In 1774, King George III granted ownership to Thomas Jefferson. Natural Bridge was often regarded as the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World during the 19th and 20th centuries. The site became a popular venue for events, ranging from conventions to the annual Easter Sunrise Service. Hotels, inns, and cottages were built to accommodate travelers, and on-site attractions including a show cave, a wax museum, and a Monacan Indian village broadened visitor appeal. Natural Bridge remained privately owned until 2014, when the title was transferred, allowing it to become a state park; the bridge will now truly belong to the people, a concept that would have made Jefferson proud.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Arcadia Publishing
• Release date: Oct 13, 2014
• ISBN: 9781439647776

Ernst H. Kastning PhD

Ernst H. Kastning, PhD, is a consulting geologist and historian. During his 48-year career as a hydrogeologist and engineer, he taught at universities in Kentucky, Connecticut, and Virginia. He has explored, mapped, and studied caves in over 40 states, primarily Virginia, Texas, New York, and in New England. Kastning writes and lectures extensively on geology, speleology, and history.

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