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Hometown Stories


Jul 26, 2023

The mountains around Eagle Rock, Virginia were the backdrop to the early life of a man you’ve probably never heard of, but whose name a community hopes you now won’t forget. On a July day more than 70 years ago, boxer Norvel Lee made history as Virginia’s first Black Olympic gold medalist. Decades later, the community that raised him is recognizing his achievements. 

In February 2022, we highlighted Norvel's story as researched by local author Ken Conklin.

 In this episode of Hometown Stories, we're stepping back to a summer's day when Botetourt’s most famous son was given his due credit.