Greensville County was formed in 1781 and may have been named for Sir Richard Greensville, leader of the Roanoke Island settlement in 1585; or General Nathaniel Green, who marched through the County after the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. The historical record is not clear as to who founded Greensville County. The area was first explored in 1670, but not settled until around 1710. Military incidents occurring in the county since its formation include General Cornwaillis and his army marching through in May 1781, and General Tarleton raiding throughout the region with small skirmishes. During the War Between the States, Confederate General Wade Hampton spent much time defending the railroad and railroad bridge that crossed through the county. A skirmish at the bridge across the Meherrin is known as the Belfield Skirmish. The famous and historically prominent persons generally associated with the county are John Y. Mason, legislator, twice Secretary of the Navy, Attorney General and Minister to France; William McKendree, first American- born bishop of the Methodist Church; Henry Tazwell, United States Senator; and John R Chambliss, a general in the Army of the Confederacy. Visit Greensville Countys Official Website!