Virginians & West Virginians, 1607-1870

Virginians & West Virginians, 1607-1870 was compiled by Patrick G. Wardell and published by Heritage Books in 1986. This volume emerged during a period of rising interest in American genealogical research and local history, serving as a reference resource for historians and families tracing lineage through the complex territorial shifts that defined Virginia and the eventual formation of West Virginia. It functions as a biographical dictionary, providing condensed records of individuals who lived in the region during the centuries following the initial settlement at Jamestown.

Heritage Books established itself as a primary publisher for genealogical data, focusing on making rare and regional historical records accessible to a broader audience. The design and layout of the book prioritize utility over aesthetic flourish, utilizing a straightforward, archival-style entry format designed for quick reference. While primarily intended for library collections and academic researchers, it was received as a practical tool for those navigating the historical records of the Mid-Atlantic region.