Mother Nature Is Reclaiming These Abandoned Kilns In Virginia And It's Eerily Fascinating
By Beth|Published July 24, 2023
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
What is it about abandoned structures that have a way of immediately capturing our attention and imagination? Perhaps it’s a glimpse into the past: a remnant of an industry, idea, or building that’s been forgotten by time but hasn’t completely disappeared yet. There are several abandoned places in Virginia, and each one is equal parts eerie and fascinating. Today’s feature destination is no exception. If you’re driving through Eagle Rock, Virginia, you might just happen upon a series of tall, crumbling structures. They’re known as the Eagle Rock Lime Kilns, and their story dates back over 100 years.
Between 1878 and 1954, the lime kilns that are now entirely abandoned were once owned and operated by Eagle Rock Co-Operational Association No. 325 as part of major lime production.
The lime was produced and sold to several iron furnaces throughout the area as well as local farmers. The lime was transported via wagon or packet boats along the James River and Kanawa Canal.
In 1880, a bridge was constructed over the nearby James River that would help transport the limestone from nearby quarries to the kilns. Before the bridge was built, this was accomplished by cables.
By 1954, the lime kilns at Eagle Rock had ceased production and, although the town wasn't completely abandoned, many of the nearby buildings as well as the kilns themselves have been left behind.
Visit today and you'll agree that it's a fascinating, almost fairytale-like scene. It's also indicative of a once-thriving industry in a small Virginia town.
Have you ever noticed the abandoned lime kilns in Eagle Rock, Virginia? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
