Somerton Historic District facts for kids
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Somerton Historic District
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I-house at Arthur and Pittmantown
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | Arthur Dr., Pittmantown Rd., Boonetown Rd, Suffolk, Virginia |
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| Area | 236.4 acres (95.7 ha) |
| Built | c. 1800 |
| Architectural style | Georgian, Federal |
| NRHP reference No. | 08001272 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | December 31, 2008 |
The Somerton Historic District is a special area in Suffolk, Virginia. It is recognized as a national historic district. This means it has important buildings and places that show what life was like in the past.
Before 1974, Somerton was part of Nansemond County. This county no longer exists. The district covers about 236 acres. It includes 15 important buildings and 2 historic sites. These are all found in the quiet village of Somerton.
Contents
What is a Historic District?
A historic district is a group of buildings, structures, or sites that are important because of their history or architecture. They are often protected to keep their special look and feel. The Somerton Historic District helps us remember the past of this area.
Somerton's Early History
Somerton's land was first given out in the 1600s. Sir Thomas Jernigan, a settler from England, received a large piece of land here. He came from a place called Somerleyton in Suffolk County, England. This is how Somerton got its name.
Buildings in the District
The Somerton Historic District has many old buildings. Some of these date back to the 1700s. You can find an old "ordinary" from the 18th century. An ordinary was like a small inn or tavern where travelers could eat and stay.
There is also a church from the 1800s. Many homes from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries are here too. These buildings are surrounded by large farm fields, showing the area's farming past.
Architectural Styles
The buildings in Somerton show different styles of architecture. These include:
- Federal architecture: This style was popular in the United States from about 1780 to 1830. Buildings often have simple, elegant designs.
- Folk Victorian: This style adds decorative details to simpler, traditional homes. You might see fancy porches or decorative trim.
Important Buildings to See
Some of the most well-known buildings in the district are:
- Somerton United Methodist Church and cemetery: This church was built around 1880. It is an important part of the community's history.
- Washington Smith Ordinary: This building dates back to about 1800. It gives us a look into how people traveled and lived long ago.
- Ellis General Store: This store was a central place for people to buy goods and meet.
National Recognition
The Somerton Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. This is a list of places in the United States that are important to our history. Being on this list helps protect the district and its unique heritage for future generations.
