Port Royal Cross Roads, Virginia facts for kids
Port Royal Cross Roads is a small place in Caroline County, Virginia. It's called an unincorporated community, which means it's a group of homes and businesses that don't have their own local government like a city or town does. Instead, it's part of the larger county government.
This community is special because it's where two important roads meet: U.S. Route 301 and U.S. Route 17. These roads help people travel across Virginia and beyond. Port Royal Cross Roads is also known for being the home of the very last Horne's restaurant.
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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 city council. Instead, the county government takes care of things like roads, police, and schools for everyone in the area.
How are Unincorporated Communities Different?
- No Local Government: They don't have their own city hall or local laws separate from the county.
- County Services: Services like fire protection and trash collection come from the county.
- Community Feel: Even without a formal government, these places often have a strong community spirit. People might know their neighbors well and share local traditions.
Roads That Meet Here
Port Royal Cross Roads is a key spot because it's where two major U.S. Routes cross paths.
U.S. Route 301
U.S. Route 301 is a long road that goes from Florida all the way up to Delaware. In Virginia, it's an important route for both local travel and people driving long distances.
U.S. Route 17
U.S. Route 17 is another significant road, running along the Atlantic coast from Florida to Virginia. It's often called the "Coastal Highway" in some parts.
The Last Horne's Restaurant
Horne's was once a popular chain of restaurants, especially known for its unique buildings with tall, pointed roofs. Many of these restaurants were built along major highways to serve travelers.
A Piece of History
Over time, most Horne's restaurants closed down. The one in Port Royal Cross Roads is the very last one still open. It's like a living piece of history, showing what roadside dining used to be like for families on road trips.
