A Virginia Family with Deep Roots

The Sowder family's story is woven into the history of Virginia and the American frontier, shaped by generations of farmers, pioneers, soldiers, ministers, public servants, and community leaders who made their homes in the mountains and valleys of the Commonwealth.

Our family's Virginia roots reach back to the colonial era and Jacob Sowder (1734–1819), a soldier of the American Revolution who served in Captain John Stith's Company of the 4th Virginia Regiment of the Continental Army. Jacob was present at Valley Forge in 1778, where his regiment served in General Charles Scott's Brigade, part of the division commanded by the Marquis de Lafayette. Surviving military records identify him as an orderly at Valley Forge, connecting our family to one of the defining chapters of American independence.

Family tradition holds that Jacob and a neighbor joined the Continental Army after British soldiers trespassed upon their land. Following the Revolution, Jacob and his descendants established enduring roots in Southwest Virginia.

The Sowder name is believed to have German occupational origins. Over time, its sound has invited associations with soldier and shooter, an interesting coincidence for a family with a history of military service and an appreciation for traditional sporting pursuits. Indeed, a surviving Continental Army equipment return from June 1778 records Jacob's musket, bayonet, and sling, offering a tangible connection to that heritage.

Our heritage also encompasses the Lawson, Taylor, East, West, Lee, and Albert families, whose colonial roots and intertwined histories extend across Virginia and beyond.

Our family's genealogical records also trace a connection to the family of the legendary American frontiersman Daniel Boone. Through the White and Boone families, our ancestry is recorded as descending from Samuel Boone, Daniel's older brother, and his wife, Sarah Day.

The Bilyeu family brings another distinctive chapter to our heritage. Family tradition associates the surname with the older form Bilwulf, interpreted as “Gentle Wolf.” This branch of our family journeyed westward, eventually establishing roots in Oklahoma during the era of the Land Rush.

From Jacob Sowder's Revolutionary War service to later generations who served in the military, public office, ministry, and community leadership, our family history reflects an enduring commitment to service. It is a heritage rooted in the belief that the land, our communities, and the traditions we inherit carry responsibilities as well as privileges.

Today, that inheritance finds expression at Highclere Hall. Our shooting grounds and traditional sporting experiences celebrate the fellowship and customs of the Virginia country estate, while our hospitality, and stewardship of the land reflect values carried forward through generations.

Here in Virginia's Western Highlands, we are grateful to honor that history while welcoming others to share in the beauty, hospitality, and traditions of this remarkable place.

Heritage is not simply what we inherit. It is what we choose to carry forward.

The Sowder Family
Highclere Hall — Virginia's Western Highlands