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Scientists say it’s hundreds of millions of years old and the product of natural forces. To local Indians, it is the work of their Creator. But the recent sale of the Natural Bridge could be the most significant event to happen to the 200-foot natural arch since Thomas Jefferson bought it from the king of England two years before he signed the Declaration of Independence.

Since then, a string of private owners has overseen the construction of a hotel, a highway over the top of the structure, a massive parking lot, a wax museum, a gift shop, and a foam recreation of Stonehenge. That development has raised concerns about the survival of Natural Bridge’s ecosystems and wildlife.

Now, Natural Bridge and its surrounding 1,500 acres are set to be transferred to public ownership as a Virginia state park. Its future was arranged by a complex series of agreements involving its longtime owner, a health-based nonprofit, historians, conservationists and the state.

The plan has the Natural Bridge staff hurrying to renovate and redefine the property while state officials prepare for a 37th park with high expectations. The changes and national attention on site have local residents taking a new look at the ageless structure.

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