Highland Heights, Virginia facts for kids

Highland Heights is a small place in Northampton County, Virginia, in the United States. It's known as an "unincorporated community." This means it's a group of homes and businesses that aren't officially a town or city. Instead, it's part of the larger county government. People living in Highland Heights are part of the wider Northampton County community.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community is a place where people live close together but don't have their own local government like a city or town. Instead, they rely on the county government for services. These services include things like roads, police, and schools. Think of it as a neighborhood that's part of a bigger area. This is different from a city, which has its own mayor and city council. Unincorporated communities are common in many parts of the United States. They often grow from small settlements.

How They Are Governed

In an unincorporated community, the county government handles most of the important decisions. This includes setting local rules and managing public services. For example, if you live in Highland Heights, your local laws come from Northampton County. The county also takes care of things like trash collection and fire protection. This system helps keep things organized. It also means that resources can be shared across a larger area.

Where is Highland Heights Located?

Highland Heights is found on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. This is a unique part of Virginia. It's a long, narrow peninsula. This land is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the west. To the east, it meets the Atlantic Ocean. The Eastern Shore is known for its beautiful coastlines. It also has many natural areas. Highland Heights is part of this special region.

Northampton County: A Closer Look

Highland Heights is located within Northampton County. This county is at the southern tip of the Eastern Shore. It's a place with a rich history. The county was formed a very long time ago. It was one of the original eight shires of Virginia. These shires were like early counties. Northampton County is mostly rural. It has a lot of farmland. It also has many small towns and communities. The county seat is Eastville. This is where the main county offices are located.

Geography of Northampton County

Northampton County has a flat landscape. It is very close to sea level. This makes it unique. The county is surrounded by water on three sides. This includes the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This location means the county has many marshes and wetlands. These areas are important for wildlife. They also help protect the land from storms. The county's geography makes it a great place for fishing and boating.

Virginia: The Old Dominion

Virginia is a state on the East Coast of the United States. It is often called "The Old Dominion." This nickname comes from its long history. Virginia was one of the first English colonies in North America. It played a big role in the founding of the United States. Many important historical events happened here. The state has diverse landscapes. It ranges from coastal plains to mountains.

Virginia's Natural Beauty

Virginia is home to many different natural environments. The Eastern Shore, where Highland Heights is, is one part. Other areas include the Blue Ridge Mountains. These mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountains range. Virginia also has many rivers and forests. These natural features offer lots of opportunities for outdoor activities. People can go hiking, fishing, or explore state parks.

Life in Highland Heights

Life in an unincorporated community like Highland Heights is often quiet. It can feel very peaceful. Residents usually enjoy a strong sense of community. Neighbors often know each other well. They might help each other out. The pace of life can be slower than in big cities. This allows for a relaxed lifestyle.

Community and Activities

While Highland Heights doesn't have its own city government, residents can still enjoy local activities. They participate in events held in nearby towns. They also use county facilities. These might include parks, libraries, and community centers. Many people in the area enjoy outdoor activities. These include fishing, crabbing, and bird watching. The natural beauty of the Eastern Shore provides many chances for adventure.

Education and Services

Children living in Highland Heights attend schools within the Northampton County Public Schools system. The county provides essential services to all its residents. This includes emergency services like fire and police. It also includes public health services. These services help ensure that everyone in the community is safe and healthy.

Fun Facts About Virginia

• Virginia is home to eight U.S. Presidents. This is more than any other state.
• The first permanent English settlement in North America was Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607.
• Virginia is famous for its delicious peanuts. It is one of the top peanut-producing states.
• The state flower of Virginia is the American Dogwood. Its beautiful white or pink blossoms appear in spring.
• Virginia has many historical battlefields. These include sites from the American Civil War.