Dear Henry, While in Lexington, Virginia , touring the Jackson House Museum , I also visited the Virginia Military Institute. Let me tell you all about it.  The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) is tucked away in the scenic Shenandoah Valley in Lexington and offers a unique experience to history buffs, military enthusiasts, and curious travelers. Founded in 1839 as the first state-supported military college in the United States, it is more than just an academic institution—it's a living monument to American history, tradition, and leadership. Spanning over 134 acres, the VMI campus is a mix of Gothic Revival architecture, expansive parade grounds, and modern facilities—yet everywhere you turn, you're reminded of the Institute's deep historical roots. The school's cadets are affectionately (and sometimes begrudgingly) known as "Rats." One of the most sorrowful chapters in VMI's history is its role in the Battle of New Market in 1864. During the Civil War, 2...