White House, Virginia facts for kids

White House Landing, 1862

White House is a small, unincorporated community located in New Kent County, Virginia, United States. It sits on the south bank of the Pamunkey River. This area is famous for its history, especially its connection to the first First Lady of the United States, Martha Washington.

What is White House, Virginia?

White House is named after the historic White House Plantation. This plantation was the home of Martha Dandridge Custis in the 1700s. She was a widow when she met and courted her future husband, Colonel George Washington, at this very place. They got married in 1759.

White House Landing: A Key Spot During the Civil War

White House, Virginia in 1861, as seen by Frank Leslie

Close to the community, White House Landing on the Pamunkey River became a very important location during the American Civil War.

• In 1862, it was a major supply base for the Union Army during the Peninsula Campaign.
• It was used again in 1864 for supplies during the Overland Campaign.

This landing helped the Union Army get food, weapons, and other necessary items to their soldiers.

The Railroad Connection

At White House, the Richmond and York River Railroad crosses the Pamunkey River. This railroad was finished in 1861. It connected Richmond to West Point. Today, this railroad is part of the Norfolk Southern rail system. It continues to be an important transportation route.