Deep Creek, Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Deep Creek, Virginia
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 Deep Creek, Virginia
Location in Virginia
Deep Creek, Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Virginia |
| Independent city | Chesapeake |
| Time zone | UTC−5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−4 (EDT) |
Deep Creek is a community located in the city of Chesapeake, in the southeastern part of Virginia. It used to be a separate, unincorporated town within the old Norfolk County. Since 1963, it has been part of the independent city of Chesapeake.
Deep Creek is found along the original path of U.S. Highway 17, also known as the Ocean Highway. Today, this part is called U.S. Route 17 Business, as newer highways have been built around it.
Contents
Deep Creek's Past
Early Settlement and Travel
Deep Creek began as a small settlement right next to the huge Great Dismal Swamp. In the 1700s and 1800s, it was a very busy stop for stagecoaches. These coaches traveled between the cities of Norfolk and Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
Lumber and Shipping
For many years, Deep Creek was a main shipping spot for the large lumber businesses in the Dismal Swamp. Trees from the swamp were cut down and sent out from here. This continued until the lumbering operations stopped.
The Dismal Swamp Canal
- The northern part of the Dismal Swamp Canal connects to the Southern Branch Elizabeth River at Deep Creek.
- This historic canal runs alongside U.S. Route 17.
- It is recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
- The canal is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A Path to Freedom
The Dismal Swamp Canal and the Great Dismal Swamp itself played a very important role in history. They were known as a safe place for people escaping slavery. This area was part of the Underground Railroad, a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom.
Deep Creek Today
A Mix of Old and New
Today, Deep Creek is a suburban community. This means it has many homes and businesses, but it still keeps some of its original rural feel. This mix of old and new is common throughout the City of Chesapeake.
Natural Beauty
Chesapeake has large suburban areas with shops and houses in its northern parts. However, it also has huge areas of undeveloped forests and wetlands in its southern areas. A big part of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is located within Chesapeake, adding to its natural beauty.
