Bristol, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

Solar Observatory

Photographed by Mark Parker, October 4, 2024

1. Solar Observatory Marker

Inscription. Along with several locations in eastern America this hill was chosen as an observation point from which astronomers sent from Washington, D.C. could view the great solar eclipse of August 7, 1869. For this reason the area, which had been known as Lancaster's Hill after Thomas C. Lancaster purchased it, soon became known as Solar Hill. Brick from the pillars of the observation platform were used in the foundation of the first house built at the corner of Solar and Cumberland streets.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Events. A significant historical date for this entry is August 7, 1869.

Location. 36° 35.897′ N, 82° 11.147′ W. Marker is in Bristol, Virginia. It is on Solar Street south of Sycamore Street, on the right when traveling south. The marker is at ground level above the retaining wall adjacent to the sidewalk. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 146 Solar St, Bristol VA 24201, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Virginia’s Tri-Cities Area,

in Southwest Virginia,

and in the Blue Ridge Highlands.

It is also in the American

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South,

specifically in the Upper South,

in Appalachia,

and specifically in Southern Appalachia. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture,

one of the original Thirteen Colonies,

one of the Confederate States of America,

and the Antebellum South.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Solar Street (within shouting distance of this marker); King's Alley/Sycamore Street (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Solar Hill/Sycamore Street (about 400 feet away); Solar Hill (about 400 feet away); Emmanuel Episcopal Church (about 500 feet away); The Sunrise House 1895 (about 500 feet away); King/Lancaster/McCoy/Mitchell House (about 500 feet away); Johnson Street (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bristol.

Solar Observatory Marker to the left of the stone staircase image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Mark Parker, October 4, 2024

2. Solar Observatory Marker to the left of the stone staircase

Credits. This page was last revised on October 6, 2024. It was originally submitted on October 5, 2024, by Mark Parker of Hickory, North Carolina. This page has been viewed 173 times since then and 16 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 5, 2024, by Mark Parker of Hickory, North Carolina. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.