Fincastle, Virginia, is one of those places that quietly weaves history into everyday life. With a population of just under 400 residents, it’s the seat of Botetourt County and a town that feels rooted in time without ever feeling stuck. Originally established in the late 1700s, it still wears its colonial past on its sleeve with preserved architecture, cobbled sidewalks, and a courthouse that’s been in service since 1773. The entire downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and walking through it feels more like a stroll through a living museum than a typical small-town experience.
But Fincastle isn’t just about looking backward. There’s a sense here that community matters. Events unfold at a pace that lets people appreciate them. The Fourth of July Parade is a local staple, drawing families, handmade floats, and community pride into one colorful procession. The annual Fincastle Festival brings artisans, antique dealers, food vendors, and history buffs to town, transforming the main streets into a patchwork of booths, music, and conversation. It's one of those events where you can pick up a handmade quilt, taste fresh apple butter, and learn a bit about Revolutionary War reenactments all in the same afternoon.
For such a small place, Fincastle is close to a surprisingly thoughtful food scene. One great example of a local favorite, Pie Shoppe, is just a short drive from the town center—technically in Troutville but frequented by locals—is legendary for its pecan pie and buttermilk chess, served in generous slices that taste like they came from someone’s grandmother’s kitchen.
Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate that Fincastle sits close to the Appalachian Trail and is surrounded by rolling hills and forested trails. There’s Carvins Cove, about twenty minutes away, offering over 12,000 acres of hiking, mountain biking, and paddling. Locals often take to the woods in the fall, not just for hunting but to admire the canopy of color that drapes the region in reds and golds.
One of the lesser-known facts about Fincastle is its connection to Lewis and Clark. William Clark’s older brother, General George Rogers Clark, once lived here, and a marker in town pays quiet tribute to that legacy. Local folklore hints at Civil War-era tunnels beneath some of the historic buildings, though their purpose—whether for escape, storage, or storytelling—remains up for debate.
Even the local customs have a personal touch. The town square becomes a gathering spot during the winter holidays, when lights are strung along the eaves of old buildings, and neighbors exchange handmade ornaments during the tree lighting ceremony. Summer means concerts in the park, where bluegrass bands set up on flatbed trailers and families bring folding chairs and coolers, ready to spend the evening together under the stars.
Living in Fincastle often means living in homes with some age, and with that age can come energy inefficiency, drafty walls, or insulation that just doesn’t do the job anymore. At Star City Home Services, we understand how crucial proper insulation is—especially in homes that carry history within their walls. Whether it's upgrading outdated materials, sealing up crawlspaces, or tackling attic repairs, we're here to help improve comfort and reduce energy costs without compromising the integrity of your home. If you’re in or around Fincastle and your insulation needs a second look,
contact us today. Let’s work together to make your space as efficient and comfortable as it should be.