Cheapside, Virginia facts for kids
Cheapside is a small, quiet place located in Northampton County, Virginia, in the United States. It's known as an "unincorporated community," which means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a town or city with its own local government. Instead, it's part of the larger county.
Cheapside is situated on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, a peninsula that separates the Chesapeake Bay from the Atlantic Ocean. This area is known for its natural beauty and historical sites.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community like Cheapside is a place where people live close together, but it doesn't have its own mayor or town council. Instead, the county government, in this case, Northampton County, provides services like roads, police, and fire protection. Many small communities across the United States are unincorporated.
The Historic Custis Tombs
Near Cheapside, you can find the Custis Tombs. These tombs are a very important historical site. They belong to the Custis family, who were early and influential settlers in Virginia.
Who Were the Custis Family?
The Custis family played a big role in the early history of Virginia. One of the most famous members was Daniel Parke Custis, whose wife, Martha Dandridge Custis, later married George Washington, who became the first President of the United States. The tombs are a reminder of these important historical connections.
Why Are the Tombs Important?
The Custis Tombs were officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. This means they are recognized by the United States government as a place worth preserving because of its historical significance. Places on this register help us learn about the past and understand how communities like Cheapside developed over time.
