National Register of Historic Places listings in Essex County, Virginia facts for kids
Welcome to Essex County, Virginia! Did you know that this area is home to many special places that are protected because of their history? These places are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. It's like a special club for buildings, sites, and areas that are important to the history of the United States.
In Essex County, there are 17 of these amazing historic spots. They include old houses, churches, and even whole neighborhoods. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized for its unique story and how it helps us understand the past. It also means people try to keep it safe and well-preserved for future generations, like you!
Historic Places in Essex County
Essex County has many cool historic places. Let's explore some of them!
Blandfield: A Grand Old Home
Blandfield is a very large and old house located near Caret. It was built a long time ago, in 1769, and is a great example of the grand homes from that period. Imagine what life was like there centuries ago! It was added to the National Register in 1969.
Brooke's Bank: A Riverside Treasure
Near Loretto, you'll find Brooke's Bank. This historic house has been standing since 1741! It's known for its beautiful architecture and its connection to the early history of Virginia. It joined the National Register in 1971.
Elmwood: Another Loretto Landmark
Elmwood is another significant historic home located near Loretto. Built in 1770, it's a wonderful example of colonial architecture. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, helping to protect its historical value.
Glebe House of St. Anne's Parish: A Church's Home
The Glebe House of St. Anne's Parish, near Champlain, was built around 1769. A "glebe house" was traditionally a home for the minister of a church. This house gives us a peek into the lives of early church leaders in Virginia. It became a protected site in 1975.
Monte Verde: A Historic Farmhouse
Monte Verde, located near Center Cross, is a historic farmhouse that dates back to 1800. It shows us how people lived and farmed in this area many years ago. This site was recognized for its history in 2002.
St. Matthew's Church: A Place of Worship
St. Matthew's Church, near Champlain, is a beautiful church that has been a center for the community for a long time. It was built in 1840. Churches often play a big role in a town's history, and St. Matthew's is no exception. It was listed in 2004.
Tappahannock Historic District: A Whole Town's History
The Tappahannock Historic District is special because it's not just one building, but a whole area in the town of Tappahannock! This district includes many historic buildings and streets that show what the town looked like in the past. It was added to the National Register in 1973, preserving a large piece of history.
Vauter's Church: An Ancient Church Building
Vauter's Church, near Loretto, is one of the oldest churches in Virginia, built in 1719! Imagine all the stories these walls could tell. It's a wonderful example of colonial church architecture and was added to the National Register in 1972.
Other Historic Places
Besides the places with pictures, Essex County has more historic sites on the National Register:
- Cherry Walk: A historic home near Dunbrooke, listed in 1983.
- Edenetta: Located in Chance, this site was added to the list in 2016.
- Glencairn: Another historic spot near Chance, recognized in 1979.
- Linden: Found near Champlain, this site joined the list in 1992.
- Port Micou: Located near Loretto, this historic area was listed in 1992.
- Wheatland: A historic property near Loretto, added in 1990.
- Woodlawn: Found near Miller's Tavern, this site was listed in 1980.
These places are all important parts of Essex County's rich history, helping us remember and learn about the past.