YORK COUNTY VIRGINIA....BETWEEN THE YORK AND JAMES RIVERS
By Elaine VonCannon, ABR, SRES, REALTOR, Notary, Team Manager
York County is located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia between the James and the York Rivers, and contains the unincorporated town of Yorktown. It lies within an hour drive of Richmond and a 45 minute drive of Virginia Beach. It is serviced by I-64, as well as Norfolk International Airport. With over 200 miles of coastline shared by parks, industry, and private waterfront residences, York County enjoys a strong connection to the sea. Its prominent industries include seafood, shipbuilding and ship repair, the same trades that have been crucial to the economy of Yorktown for over 350 years.
Established in 1633, Yorktown is part of what is now referred to as the "Historic Triangle" including Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg, all located within a 15 minute drive of each other on and around the James River. Yorktown was the location of the British surrender following the last battle of the American Revolution on October 9, 1781, as well as a major port during the Civil War, serving both the Union and the Confederacy, changing hands during the War. This proud history is celebrated today through the National Historical Park, which encompasses both Yorktown and Jamestown settlements, and allows visitors a chance to experience the wildlife, historic sites, and natural beauty along the Colonial Parkway.
Yorktown is home to many original historic homes, including the Cole Digges house, built in 1720, which now serves as a lunch cafŽ and special events location. The Moore house, dated back to the early 18th century, was the site of Lord Cornwallis' surrender on October 18, 1781, ending the American Revolution. Today it has been fully restored, complete with period furniture and a recreation of the room in which the Articles of Capitulation were signed, and is open to visitors. The Nelson House, a Georgian style home constructed in 1711, was the birthplace of Thomas J. Nelson, signer of the Declaration of Independence and the first commander of the Virginia militia. Other historic homes on the tour include Archer Cottage, Ballard House, and Smith House.
The Custom House, built in the 1720s by a customs collector for the Crown, is believed to be the oldest Customs house in the country, and now contains a museum and gift shop. The Waterman's Museum in Yorktown celebrates the long history of the water trades in Virginia with both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visitors can tour recreated Continental army encampments, as well as a recreated 1790 farm, complete with costumed interpreters. The Yorktown Battlefield allows visitors to walk along the siege line in the 1781 battle for the city, as well as providing live artillery demonstrations. This battle will be recreated in full scale for America's Anniversary Weekend, celebrating the 400th anniversary of the founding of Jamestown colony.
Visit my web sites for more information and details on properties, www.voncannonrealestate.com or www.estatesinvirginia.com. Contact me at 757-288-4685.
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