In 1903, the Grayson Real Estate Company was formed, land was purchased, and the community of Galax became a reality. The advantage of having the Norfolk and Western Railroad passing through town gave the young southern community the opportunity to grow and expand during the 20th century. Located on a high valley-like plateau in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, its downtown district is listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. The town is surrounded by rolling swells of grassy hills and well-kept farms, while the Chestnut Creek meanders slowly through the heart of the town with the New River and the Blue Ridge Parkway nearby. A collection of old, treasured photographs provide a glimpse of the town's first 50 years and of its citizens, their lives, homes, stores, and activities.