Providence Forge, Virginia facts for kids
Providence Forge is a small community in New Kent County, Virginia, United States. It's called an "unincorporated community" because it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. It was one of the first places settled in the county, which was formed way back in 1654.
This area was once home to an old iron factory called a "forge." This factory made iron products. Sadly, it was destroyed during the American Revolutionary War by a British general named Banastre Tarleton.
The Chickahominy River flows nearby, separating New Kent County from Charles City County. Important roads like U.S. Route 60 and State Route 155 go through Providence Forge. You can also find the Colonial Downs horse-racing track close by, near the Interstate 64 exit for Providence Forge.
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History of Providence Forge
Early Settlement and Iron Works
Providence Forge was an important place very early in Virginia's history. The "forge" part of its name comes from an iron-making factory. This factory was crucial for making tools and other metal items needed by the colonists.
During the American Revolutionary War, this iron forge became a target. British forces, led by General Banastre Tarleton, destroyed it. This was a common tactic during the war to weaken the American colonists.
The Railroad Arrives
In 1881, a new railroad line came to Providence Forge. This was part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway (C&O). The railroad built a station here. This new line was called the Peninsula Subdivision.
The main reason for building this railroad was to move West Virginia bituminous coal. This type of coal was transported to a new city called Newport News. There, special docks were built to load the coal onto large ships called colliers. These ships then carried the coal all over the world.
Railroad's Impact and Legacy
The arrival of the C&O railroad was great news for farmers and businesses in the Virginia Peninsula. It made it much easier to transport goods and people. Providence Forge was a stop for passengers until about 1931. It continued to be a freight stop for goods until at least the late 1960s.
The original railroad station building was taken down in 2006. However, a similar old station building in Lee Hall has been saved. Efforts were made to move it slightly and open it as a museum.
Historic Places
Several historic places in Providence Forge are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are important historical sites that are protected. These include:
- Cedar Grove
- Emmaus Baptist Church
- Olivet Presbyterian Church
- Spring Hill
