Most People In Virginia Don’t Know About Our Old German POW Camp
By Beth|Updated on April 21, 2023(Originally published April 16, 2023)
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
While Virginia is known for its Revolutionary War and Civil War history, few people associate the state with World War II. And yet, as those who lived through those wartime years remember, the war affected residents of Virginia in very tangible ways. In fact, there are a handful of locations throughout the state that once served as prisoner of war (POW) camps. One of the most prominent was Camp Ashby, located in Princess Anne County near Virginia Beach. Aside from historical markers, very little remains of the actual camp. Yet it’s history is fascinating.
If you’re curious to visit the site of the former POW camp, it’s located at the Willis Furniture Store Complex. Have you been to this fascinating piece of history before? If so, let us know in the comments below. We love to hear your firsthand accounts of these unique experiences.