Mearsville, Virginia facts for kids

Mearsville is a small, quiet place in Accomack County, Virginia. It's known as an unincorporated community, which means it's a group of homes and businesses that doesn't have its own local government like a city or town does. Instead, it's part of the larger county government.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community is a place where people live close together, but it's not officially a city or town. It doesn't have its own mayor or town council. Instead, the county government takes care of things like roads, schools, and police services for everyone living there. Many small communities across the United States are unincorporated.

How are Unincorporated Communities Governed?

In places like Mearsville, the county government makes the rules and provides services. For example, the Accomack County Board of Supervisors would be in charge of decisions that affect Mearsville. This is different from a city, which has its own local government to handle these tasks.

Exploring Accomack County, Virginia

Mearsville is located in Accomack County, which is part of the Eastern Shore of Virginia. This area is a peninsula, meaning it's surrounded by water on three sides. It's known for its beautiful coastline, rich history, and important role in farming and fishing.

Geography and Nature in Accomack

Accomack County is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. This unique location means it has many different natural habitats. You can find sandy beaches, salt marshes, and thick forests. These areas are home to many types of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other animals.

Important Waterways

The county's many bays, creeks, and inlets are very important. They support a lot of marine life and are used for fishing and boating. The water also helps shape the local weather and environment.

History of Accomack County

Accomack County has a long and interesting history. It was one of the original eight shires (counties) of the Virginia Colony, created in 1634. The area was settled by English colonists, and its economy was built on farming and seafood. Over the centuries, it has remained an important agricultural and fishing region.

Early Settlements

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1600s. They found a land rich in resources and inhabited by Native American tribes. The county's name, "Accomack," comes from a Native American word, possibly meaning "on the other side" or "across the water."

Economy and Life in Accomack

Today, Accomack County's economy still relies heavily on agriculture and seafood. Farmers grow crops like corn, soybeans, and vegetables. The seafood industry harvests crabs, oysters, and various fish from the surrounding waters. Tourism is also growing, with visitors coming to enjoy the natural beauty and quiet charm of the Eastern Shore.

Local Industries

Besides farming and fishing, there are also small businesses and services that support the local communities. Many people work in schools, healthcare, and retail. The county aims to balance its traditional industries with new opportunities for growth.

Virginia: The Old Dominion

Mearsville and Accomack County are part of the great state of Virginia. Virginia is one of the original thirteen colonies and has played a huge role in American history. It's often called "The Old Dominion" because of its loyalty to the British Crown during the English Civil War.

Virginia's Historical Significance

Virginia is where the first permanent English settlement in North America was established at Jamestown in 1607. It was also the birthplace of many Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Key events of the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War took place here.

Important Historical Sites

Virginia is home to many famous historical sites. These include Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon (George Washington's home), and the battlefields of the Civil War. These places help us understand how the United States was formed and developed.

Virginia's Diverse Geography

Virginia has a very diverse landscape. From the sandy beaches of the Eastern Shore to the towering Blue Ridge Mountains in the west, the state offers many different environments. In between, you'll find rolling hills, fertile valleys, and major rivers like the James River and the Potomac River.

Natural Wonders

The Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying nature. The state's many rivers and bays also provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Government and Education in Virginia

Virginia's state capital is Richmond. The state government is led by a governor and has a legislature that makes laws. Virginia is also known for its strong education system, with many well-known universities and colleges.

Public Services

The state government works to provide services like public education, transportation, and healthcare to its citizens. Local governments, like the one in Accomack County, then help deliver these services to specific communities like Mearsville.

Images for kids

• Example Image 1.jpg

  A scenic view of the Eastern Shore coastline.

• Example Image 2.jpg

  A typical farm field in Accomack County.

• Example Image 3.jpg

  A boat on the Chesapeake Bay, important for fishing.