The Roanoke Valley is as rich in history as it is in natural beauty and has played a vital role in the growth of Virginia. The Wilderness Road migration route, traveled by pioneers in covered wagons on their way to settle the frontier, passed right through the region.
Roanoke is the 10th largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the largest municipality in Southwest Virginia. Formerly known as Big Lick, because of it’s numerous salt marshes (or licks), the city was renamed Roanoke in 1881.
Roanoke became a crossroads for the railroad, which eventually became the Norfolk and Western Railway. Its historic market, which also began in these early years, remains vibrant as one of the oldest in the country and still is an anchor of downtown commerce (http://www.visitroanokeva.com/visitors/history/roanoke-history/).
It was a lovely morning in Roanoke … perfect for a quick stroll around the downtown market area.
The variety of windows caught my eye
Historic Signs and Newer Signs
Old Buildings
And New
Inside the renovated market building
Outside on the market square
Downtown Roanoke has much more to see … restaurants and pubs, museums and historic hotels, renovated buildings and shops. Festivals too! You should come check it out!
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 
You should send this link to folks in charge of Roanoke tourism! I haven’t been in ages but now I want to go see the renovated market and check out the early spring offerings at the market on Saturday mornings!
Good idea, Liz! I’ll send them the link.
I just got back from our big flea market…it sure did make me miss living in a historic town! Loved this post.
Thanks Laurie! I wish more people would think to support our local downtown areas, instead of always running to the same chain restaurants and stores.
I love these photos LB – they are just the type of images I find myself taking when I’m in that environment – Windows, signs etc. The US seems to have a wealth of fantastic subject matter for me – I must come again soon !
And when you do, we’ll go shooting together 🙂 We do have a similar eye!!
What? No photos of pork chunks and fried plantain chips?? Nice shots!
Those were some darned good pork chunks for sure!!
I’m trying to think if I’ve ever been to Roanoke and I don’t believe that I have. Wonderful photos. There is something about a quiet downtown area. Nice job. The fence is my favorite.