Old Dominion, Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Old Dominion
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 Old Dominion
Location in Virginia
Old Dominion
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Virginia |
| County | Albemarle |
| Time zone | UTC−5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−4 (EDT) |
| GNIS feature ID | 1499819 |
Old Dominion is a small, unincorporated community located in Albemarle County, Virginia, in the United States. An unincorporated community is a place that doesn't have its own local government, like a city or town. Instead, it's part of a larger county. This community sits at an elevation of about 535 feet (163 meters) above sea level.
While Old Dominion is a specific place, the name "Old Dominion" is much more famous as a long-standing nickname for the entire state of Virginia.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a group of homes or businesses that are not officially organized as a city or town. They don't have their own mayor or town council. Instead, they are governed directly by the county they are in.
This means that services like roads, police, and fire departments are provided by Albemarle County. Many small communities across the United States are unincorporated.
The "Old Dominion" Nickname for Virginia
The name "Old Dominion" is most famously known as a nickname for the state of Virginia itself. This nickname has a long and interesting history that dates back to the 17th century. It tells a story about Virginia's special relationship with England.
Why is Virginia Called "Old Dominion"?
The nickname "Old Dominion" was given to Virginia by King Charles II of England. This happened during a time when England was going through a lot of political changes.
During the English Civil War (1642-1651), many people in England supported the Parliament against the King. However, the Colony of Virginia remained loyal to the English Crown. Even when King Charles I was executed and his son, Charles II, was exiled, Virginia continued to recognize him as their rightful ruler.
When Charles II was finally restored to the throne in 1660, he was very grateful for Virginia's loyalty. As a special thank you, he supposedly called Virginia his "Old Dominion." This meant it was like an old, loyal territory or kingdom that had stayed true to him.
The nickname stuck, and Virginia has been known as the "Old Dominion" ever since. It's a proud reminder of the state's early history and its strong ties to the English monarchy.
Where is Old Dominion Located?
The unincorporated community of Old Dominion is found in the central part of Virginia. It is specifically within Albemarle County. This county is known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites, including Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson.
The community's exact location is marked by its geographic coordinates: 37 degrees, 49 minutes, 40 seconds North latitude and 78 degrees, 39 minutes, 58 seconds West longitude. These coordinates help pinpoint its precise spot on a map.
