ABOUT CHESTERFIELD COUNTY

The Convergence of History and Natural Beauty in Chesterfield County

Explore the authentic roots of the United States in Chesterfield County, Virginia - where Pocahontas once lived, the first tobacco crops were grown to sell in Europe, and the first American hospital was built. Feel the enduring presence of history from North America's second successful English settlement, the Citie of Henricus, founded in 1611 by Sir Thomas Dale, which serves as the foundation of modern-day Chesterfield, VA. Taking its name from Philip Dormer Stanhope, Fourth Earl of Chesterfield, the county's historical contributions include being the first place in the nation where coal was mined commercially, which led to the first paved road and the first railroad in Virginia.

Today, framed by the James and Appomattox Rivers, with 3,000-acre Lake Chesdin on its southern border and Swift Creek in its western section, Chesterfield County capitalizes upon the abundant beauty of Mother Nature in an area of stirring historical significance. More than 370,000 residents call its 446 square miles home, in the midst of more than 1,000 neighborhoods and 50 public parks - including Pocahontas State Park, a true haven for nature lovers. Discover the authentic Victorian homes of Bon Air, the thoughtfully planned communities of Brandermill and Woodlake and the small-town appeal of Midlothian - recently named to Money Magazine's "Top 100 Places to Live."

Experience a stirring re-creation of 17th-century settlement life in Henricus Historical Park. Visit Magnolia Grange, an 1822 plantation house with distinctive architecture and period furnishings. Marvel at the exhibits of the Chesterfield County Museum, featuring Native American artifacts and displays highlighting 400 years of county history. Or witness the natural wonders of the Dutch Gap Conservation Area - home to fish, deer, groundhogs, waterfowl and tons of birds, including a rare blue heron rookery and bald eagles. Experience the diverse range of attractions here - from the sites of several prominent Civil War battles to a variety of family-friendly events and activities, including the annual Chesterfield County Airshow.