Bartlett, Virginia facts for kids

Bartlett is a small, unincorporated community located in Isle of Wight County, Virginia, in the United States. It's a place where important roads meet, specifically U.S. Route 17, U.S. Route 258, and State Route 32. Bartlett is found near the James River Bridge, just southeast of the town of Smithfield.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

Have you ever wondered what an "unincorporated community" is? It's a place where people live together, but it doesn't have its own local government like a city or a town. Instead, it's usually governed by the larger county it's a part of. For Bartlett, this means Isle of Wight County, Virginia handles things like police, fire services, and schools.

Why are Some Places Unincorporated?

Many communities start small and grow over time. If a community doesn't have enough people or resources to form its own government, it often remains unincorporated. This can save money because they share services with the county. It also means residents follow county-wide rules and pay county taxes.

How Does Isle of Wight County Govern Bartlett?

Isle of Wight County has a Board of Supervisors. These are elected officials who make decisions for the entire county, including unincorporated areas like Bartlett. They decide on budgets, local laws, and how services are provided to all residents.

Where is Bartlett Located?

Bartlett is in a special spot in Virginia. It's on the eastern side of the state, close to the coast. Its location near the James River is very important. The James River is one of the longest rivers in Virginia and has played a big role in the state's history.

What Major Roads Meet in Bartlett?

Bartlett is a crossroads for several key highways.

• U.S. Route 17: This road runs along the East Coast of the United States. It connects many towns and cities from Florida all the way up to Virginia.
• U.S. Route 258: This route travels through Virginia and North Carolina. It helps connect inland areas to the coast.
• State Route 32: This is a state highway that also runs through Virginia and into North Carolina.

Why is the James River Bridge Important?

The James River Bridge is a very long bridge that crosses the James River. It's a vital link for transportation in the region. For Bartlett, being near the approach to this bridge means it's a gateway for people traveling across the river, connecting different parts of Virginia. This makes Bartlett a place where many travelers pass through.

What is Isle of Wight County Like?

Isle of Wight County is known for its rich history and beautiful natural areas. It's a mix of rural landscapes and growing communities. The county has a long agricultural tradition, especially known for its peanuts and hams.

What is Smithfield, Virginia?

Smithfield is a historic town located very close to Bartlett. It's famous for its "Smithfield Ham," a type of cured ham that has been produced there for centuries. Smithfield has a charming downtown area with old buildings and a strong sense of history. Many people who live in Bartlett might work or shop in Smithfield.

What Kind of History Does the Area Have?

The area around Bartlett and Isle of Wight County has a deep history, dating back to early colonial times in Virginia. It was part of the original English settlements. This region saw many important events during the American Revolution and the Civil War. Learning about these historical events helps us understand how communities like Bartlett developed over time.