In Virginia, forsaken businesses across the state illustrate the changing face of its economy, from rural agricultural shifts to urban industrial decline. These empty spaces, which once housed thriving enterprises, now stand as poignant indicators of the state’s efforts to navigate through economic transformations and embrace new industries.
In Virginia, forsaken businesses across the state illustrate the changing face of its economy, from rural agricultural shifts to urban industrial decline. These empty spaces, which once housed thriving enterprises, now stand as poignant indicators of the state’s efforts to navigate through economic transformations and embrace new industries.
Craig County
Blue Healing Springs
The Blue Healing Springs Company was incorporated in June 1911 to capitalize upon the healing waters of four mineral springs in western Virginia. 4 At its height, the location consisted of 100 acres of land and several buildings. 3 The property was listed for sale for $25,000 in 1929. 3
By 2022, the only building remaining was the ballroom which had later served as a hunting lodge. 1
Blue Healing Springs’s ballroom can be seen in the movie “In a Shallow Grave” starring Patrick Dempsey. 2 The abandoned building was used as a dance hall where Garnet finds an old Victrola and dances with his memories. The building was reportedly so enshrouded with trees it took four attempts to find it.
Highland County
Lee County
Ewing Theatre
The Ewing Theatre in Ewing, Virginia, closed circa 1983.
Other
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Sources
- Cohen, Stan. Historic Springs of the Virginias: A Pictorial History. Pictorial Histories Pub. Co., 1997.
- Kass, Carole. “Virginia provided perfect location for film.” Richmond Times-Dispatch, 30 Aug. 1987, pp. K1-K14.
- “Business Opportunities.” Daily Press [Newport News], 12 Jun. 1929, p. 13.
- “List of Charters and Amendments of Charters.” Annual Report of the Secretary of the Commonwealth to the Governor and General Assembly of Virginia, 1911. p. 256.
