Stuart City Map Poster

About Stuart

The city is also known for its vibrant arts community, with several galleries and the Stuart Heritage Museum. The downtown area features a historic district with many small shops, restaurants and bars. Stuart was founded by Captain William Hobeika Stuart in 1883 as "Stuart's Bluff". It was renamed to honor James Monroe Stuart, who later served as mayor of Staunton (now Augusta), Virginia from 1812-1814. In 1890 it became county seat of newly formed Martin County; at that time it had 1,000 residents. The first post office opened in 1888; the name was changed to "Stuart" on March 31st 1893.[5] In 1900 there were 2 hotels: Bay View House ($10/week) & Hotel Bellview ($8/week). There were 3 churches: Methodist Episcopal Church South (free), Presbyterian Church (free) & Baptist church ($2/year).[6] The population reached 1,500 by 1905 when an influx of settlers came due to the building of Henry Moseley's railroad through town.