Henrico County

Henrico County is an administrative area in Virginia that wraps around the state capital Richmond on three sides. The territory extends from the James River to the northern suburbs and includes both urban neighborhoods and rural areas.

The area was established in 1634 as one of Virginia's eight original administrative divisions. The geographic relationship with the capital city Richmond took shape in 1842, when the city officially separated from the surrounding territory.

The county's name comes from the early settlement of Henricus, founded in 1611 along the James River. Today, residents organize their lives around several community centers spread across the area, each with its own shops, parks, and gathering places.

Visitors can reach different parts of the county via Interstate 64, which runs east to west, and Interstate 95, which runs north to south. Richmond International Airport sits in the eastern portion and offers regular connections to major cities.

The unusual border wrapping around Richmond came about when the city chose to split off from the surrounding county in 1842. This separation means both areas now maintain their own administrations, schools, and public services.

Location: Virginia

Inception: 1634

Capital city: Laurel

Shares border with: Hanover County, Richmond, Charles City County, New Kent County, Chesterfield County, Powhatan County, Goochland County

Website: http://henrico.us

GPS coordinates: 37.55000,-77.40000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:31