Altavista was founded in 1905 by brothers John Edward and Henry Lee Lane, who were awarded a contract to connect the Virginian and Southern Railroad systems at the Staunton River. Recognizing the significance of this river crossing, they purchased 2000 acres to establish and build a town. The first settlers arrived in 1907. Originally called Lane Siding, the town was renamed Altavista and incorporated in 1912. On October 17, 2010, Founders Square was dedicated in honor of all citizens of Altavista’s past, present, and future.