National Register of Historic Places listings in Lancaster County, Virginia facts for kids
Welcome to Lancaster County, Virginia! This area is full of history, and many of its special places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of buildings, areas, and objects that are important to American history and culture.
When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of our past. It also helps protect these places for future generations. In Lancaster County, there are 13 different places on this list, and one of them is even a National Historic Landmark – that's a really big deal!
Historic Places in Lancaster County
Lancaster County has many amazing historic sites. Let's explore some of them!
Christ Church: A National Historic Landmark
One of the most important places in Lancaster County is Christ Church. It's located about three miles south of Kilmarnock, near Irvington. This church was built a very long time ago, in 1735, and it's known for its amazing colonial architecture. It's so special that it's been named a National Historic Landmark, which is the highest honor a historic place can receive in the United States. It's a must-see if you're interested in early American history and building styles.
Belle Isle: A Grand Old Home
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Belle Isle is another fascinating historic spot. It's a large estate located on the southwest side of Route 683, near Somers. This beautiful property was added to the National Register in 1973. It gives us a peek into what life was like in the past for families in this area.
Fox Hill Plantation: A Glimpse into the Past
Near Lively, you'll find Fox Hill Plantation. This historic plantation was listed in 1978. Plantations like Fox Hill played a big role in the history of Virginia, showing us how people lived and worked centuries ago.
Historic Districts: Whole Towns Preserved
Sometimes, it's not just one building that's historic, but a whole area or town! These are called Historic Districts.
Irvington Historic District
The town of Irvington itself is a historic district! The area around King Carter Drive and Irvington Road was recognized in 2000. This means that the charm and history of the whole town center are protected.
Lancaster Court House Historic District
The area around the Lancaster Court House, on Route 3, is also a historic district. It was listed in 1983. This district includes buildings that were important for local government and community life long ago.
Village of Morattico Historic District
The Village of Morattico Historic District was added to the list in 2011. This district includes parts of Morattico Road, Riverside Drive, and other nearby streets. It helps preserve the unique history and feel of this waterside village.
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Other Notable Historic Places
Lancaster County is home to many other important sites:
Corotoman
Corotoman is a very old and important site near Weems. It was added to the National Register in 1970. The exact location is kept private to help protect it.
Locustville
Locustville is located near Ottoman. This historic place, found east of the junction of Routes 354 and 625, was listed in 1994.
Pop Castle
Pop Castle is a historic site near White Stone, right on the Rappahannock River. It was recognized in 1989.
SIELE (motor yacht)
Did you know a boat can be historic? The motor yacht SIELE, also known as USS Aquamarine (PYc-7), is listed! It's located at the Tides Inn in Irvington and was added to the register in 1998. This shows that history isn't just about old buildings, but also about important vehicles and objects.
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St. Mary's, Whitechapel
St. Mary's, Whitechapel is another historic church, located northwest of the junction of Routes 354 and 201 near Lively. It was listed in 1969. Like Christ Church, it's a significant example of early religious architecture.
Verville
Verville is a historic property near Merry Point, on Route 611. It was added to the National Register in 1987.
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These places help tell the story of Lancaster County and the wider history of Virginia and the United States!
