Chiltons, Virginia facts for kids
Chiltons is a small, unincorporated community in Westmoreland County, Virginia. An "unincorporated community" is a place that doesn't have its own local government, but it's still a recognized area where people live.
Chiltons is located about one mile east of Stratford Hall, a famous historic home. Stratford Hall was the home of the important Lee family, including Robert E. Lee, a well-known general. Chiltons is also about one mile south of the Potomac River. It's connected to the river by a winding waterway called Currioman Creek.
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The Chilton Family Arrives
The story of Chiltons began with an immigrant named John Chilton and his wife, Joan. They likely came from Maidstone, England. They arrived in Lancaster County, Virginia, around 1666 or 1667.
Their first child, also named John, was born in Virginia. He first appeared on official lists in Lancaster County in 1688. These lists helped the government know who could pay taxes.
Moving to Westmoreland County
In the 1690s, John Chilton II moved to Westmoreland County. He first appeared in court records there in 1697. At that time, he was a farmer in an area called Cople Parish. He bought about 280 acres (about 1.1 square kilometers) of land in a forested area called Nominy. This land became the heart of what is now Chiltons, Virginia.
Growing the Estate
John Chilton II bought a lot of land over time. By 1699, his property included the spot where Currioman Creek meets the Potomac River. This large estate became known as Currioman. People started calling him John Chilton of Currioman.
He lived in Westmoreland County for about 30 years. He passed away in July 1726. His grave marker has been saved and can still be seen today. It says he was a merchant and passed away on July 11, 1726, at about 60 years old.
Famous Descendants
Many notable people are descendants of the Chilton family, including:
- Thomas Chilton
- William Parish Chilton
- Robert H. Chilton
- Robert Emmett Bledsoe Baylor
- Robert A. Lovett
