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Roanoke, Virginia

Located in Independent City, Virginia, Roanoke was established in 1852. Roanoke was originally called 'Big Lick' for a salt lick that attracted animals. The Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain is the world's largest freestanding man-made star.
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Founded 1852 | Population 100,000 | Peak 100,000 (2024) | County Independent City

Top 10 Most Important Events for Roanoke, Virginia

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1852Railroad Town: Norfolk & Western Railway hub.
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1882Big Lick to Roanoke: Renamed from Big Lick when railroad arrives.
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1902Economic Development: Roanoke grew through textile manufacturing.
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1907Hotel Roanoke: Tudor-style railroad hotel becomes landmark.
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1987Roanoke Star: World's largest freestanding man-made star on Mill Mountain.
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Latest News in Roanoke

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Complete Historical Timeline

1852 Transport
Railroad Town
1882 Culture
Big Lick to Roanoke
1902 Industry
Economic Development
1907 Architecture
Hotel Roanoke
1987 Culture
Roanoke Star

Did You Know?

1
Roanoke was originally called 'Big Lick' for a salt lick that attracted animals.
2
The Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain is the world's largest freestanding man-made star.
3
Roanoke is the largest city on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
4
Roanoke is located in Independent City, Virginia.
5
Roanoke was founded in 1852.
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