Charles City County, Colonial county in Tidewater Virginia, US
Charles City County sits between Richmond and Jamestown, with the James River forming its southern boundary and the Chickahominy River along its eastern side. The land consists of river valleys and rural fields dotted with colonial-era plantation homes and historic roadways.
The Virginia Company founded Charles Cittie in 1619 as one of the first four boroughs and named it after Prince Charles before it became a royal colony in 1624. The settlement experienced major transformations over the following centuries, including conflicts and shifts in the colonial economy.
The Chickahominy, Paspahegh, and Weanoc peoples lived here for centuries before English arrival, and their descendants continue to maintain cultural traditions in the region today. Walking through the area, you can find museums and community events that honor these connections.
The area is accessible via Route 5 and the Virginia Capital Trail, which connect different sites throughout the county. Planning ahead helps when visiting multiple plantations and museums, as they are spread out and have varying hours.
Two U.S. presidents were born in plantation homes that still stand in this county: William Henry Harrison was born at Berkeley Plantation and John Tyler at Greenway Plantation. These two houses are unusual survivors and open to the public for tours.
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