The bridge across time
Natural Bridge has played a curious role in America’s history and pre-history. From the Monacan Indians to American romantic painters, Thomas Jefferson to present-day state politicians, the bridge has been a symbol of salvation, inspiration and cultural identity.
Natural Bridge: 10,000 years of human history
The bridge has undergone a series of remarkable changes in its long evolution. It has influenced storytellers, artists and writers across the centuries. This timeline traces the owners who left their marks at the site, and offers some historical tidbits and stories of accidents and misadventures.
A changing landscape
The rock walls of Natural Bridge have weathered 500 million years of change. This interactive map details what has happened, what is happening and what new owner Tom Clarke expects to happen at and around the bridge.
Monacans hope to renew their place
The chief of the Monacan Indian nation is frustrated that tribe members have to pay to see the Natural Bridge. They say the bridge was a sacred site to them long before the first European set foot in the New World. But with Natural Bridge under new management and destined to become a state park, the Monacans hope to renew their ancestral presence there.
Virginia tribes seek federal recognition
None of the six Virginia tribes is recognized by the federal government. There is legislation pending in Congress that would change that. Without federal recognition, the Monacans and other tribes do not have access to education, housing and health benefits afforded other Native American nations.