Most people ask, “Where in the world is Farmville, Va.?”
It’s a question that most likely won't be asked after the 2016 vice presidential debate occurs.
Farmville is the heart of Virginia and the home to Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College.
“My favorite part about being in Farmville is that it reminds me of home; it’s a small town where everyone knows everyone," Longwood freshman Mary Linn said, "My favorite part about Longwood is meeting new people and making new friendships.”
The Town of Farmville holds 8,216 residents across seven square miles situated within both Prince Edward and Cumberland counties, according to the town's website, while Longwood University consists of 5,096 students, 68 percent female and 32 percent male. The campus itself is 154 acres, and about 68 percent of undergraduate students live on campus or in Longwood managed housing, according to the university’s official website.
The Town of Farmville and Longwood contain many historical aspects and landmarks that make up their characteristics.
The Moton Museum consists of facts and memories of the American Civil Rights Revolution, a place that Longwood puts to good use for its curriculum. Some courses have one or two classes in the museum. Some of the freshmen seminar classes also take a tour of the museum during their first semester, showing the new Lancers how historical their new town is.
Another landmark in Farmville is the Longwood Center of Visual Arts (LCVA). It’s a place where artwork from all over the town is displayed. The LCVA participates in events such as Art After Dark and movie showings, and they show displays such as, “Citizen Leaders: Century of Iconic Presidential Campaign Photography by the Associated Press.” The LCVA is a place for Longwood students, faculty, staff and Farmville residents to enjoy and learn.
As one walks down main street, they will pass little boutiques and restaurants such as Walkers Diner, Charley’s, Uptown Café, The Sleeping Bee, Pairets, Mainly Clay and many more.
However, there is one thing that will stand out most of all when one visits Farmville: the small community feel.
Longwood freshmen photography major Tanya Velasquez said, “(My favorite part of Longwood and Farmville) is the very kind, community feel around me and the great friends I’ve had the chance to meet.”
That being said, as we all know Farmville and Longwood University are hosting one of the most significant events in the area's history - the vice presidential debate. With the multiple store fronts advocating for the success of this event and the student volunteers' assistance, everyone will help make the event run smoothly as Longwood and Farmville welcome all to enjoy everything the small town has to offer.
