Moneta, Virginia is a small unincorporated community located in Bedford County. Despite its size, there have been many historical events that have taken place in and around the area. Here are seven of the most significant moments in Moneta’s history.

1. Revolutionary War Battle of Point Pleasant
One of the most significant events in Moneta’s history is the Battle of Point Pleasant. It was fought on October 10th, 1774, near the town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, which is just across the state border from Moneta. It was a conflict between Virginia militia and Native American tribes, led by Shawnee Chief Cornstalk. The battle is considered to be the first battle of the American Revolution, and it helped lead to the signing of the Treaty of Camp Charlotte in 1775.

2. Bedford Boys D-Day Invasion
On June 6th, 1944, 22 young soldiers from Bedford County were part of the Allied forces that stormed the beaches of Normandy, France, during World War II. The event, known as D-Day, was the largest seaborne invasion in history and a turning point in the war. Sadly, 19 of the Bedford Boys were killed on the first day of the invasion, and three more died later in the conflict. Today, the National D-Day Memorial is located just a few miles from Moneta, in Bedford.

3. Smith Mountain Lake Development
Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir created by the Smith Mountain Dam on the Roanoke River. It was constructed in the 1960s by Appalachian Power Company and has become a popular destination for recreation and relaxation. The lake covers 20,600 acres and has 500 miles of shoreline. Its development has played a significant role in the local economy, as well as offering numerous recreational opportunities to visitors.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway Construction
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic highway that runs through the Appalachian Mountains, from Virginia to North Carolina. Its construction began in 1935 and was completed in 1987. The parkway passes through Bedford County and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It has become a popular destination for road trips, camping, and hiking.

5. Smith Mountain Lake Plane Crash
In 2015, a small plane crashed into Smith Mountain Lake, killing all three people on board. The accident was a tragic event that shook the community, but it also brought people together in a touching display of support for the families of the victims. A local church held a memorial service for the victims, and the community came together to raise money for their families.

6. Hurricane Camille
In August 1969, Hurricane Camille swept through the southeastern United States and caused severe damage in and around Moneta. The storm dumped over 25 inches of rain in some areas, causing flooding, landslides, and destruction of property. The worst of the damage was concentrated in Nelson County, which is adjacent to Bedford County.

7. Centra Health Incidents
In August 2017, a helicopter from Centra Health crashed near Smith Mountain Lake, killing the pilot and the two nurses on board. It was a tragedy that shocked the community and led to an outpouring of support for the families of the victims. In addition to the crash, a Centra physician, Dr. Michael K. Robinson, was charged with healthcare fraud in 2018. Robinson had worked at Centra for over a decade before his arrest, and the case received widespread media attention.

In conclusion, Moneta may be a small town, but it has a rich and fascinating history. From the Revolutionary War to modern-day incidents, the area has been witness to significant events that have shaped the course of American history.