 Alexander Spotswood, who reached Elkton, and whose rangers continued and in 1716 likely passed through what is now Harrisonburg.Harrisonburg, previously known as "Rocktown", was named for Thomas Harrison, a son of English settlers.In 1737, Harrison settled in the Shenandoah Valley, eventually laying claim to over situated at the intersection of the Spotswood Trail and the main Native American road through the valley.