Historical Marker

History of the Banks House

Historical marker location:
Petersburg, Virginia
( Marker can be reached from Hofheimer Way, on the left when traveling south.)

The Banks House

architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Virginia.
The first Thanksgiving in North America was celebrated in Virginia in 1619, a year before the Pilgrims celebrated their first Thanksgiving in Massachusetts.
Virginia random facts
Dinwiddie County, Virginia has a rich history that spans back to the colonial era. The area was originally inhabited by the indigenous Appomattoc tribe until English settlers arrived in the early 17th century. In 1642, Charles City County was established, which included the land that would later become Dinwiddie County. The county was officially formed in 1752 and named after then Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, Robert Dinwiddie.

During the American Revolution, Dinwiddie County played a significant role. It was home to several notable patriots, including American Revolutionary War hero, Peter Francisco. The Battle of Five Forks, a critical engagement in the Siege of Petersburg, also took place in Dinwiddie in 1865. This battle marked a turning point in the Civil War, leading to the fall of the Confederate defenses and ultimately, the end of the war.

Following the war, Dinwiddie County experienced a period of growth and development. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became the primary industry in the county, and the construction of railroads further spurred economic growth. The county's natural resources, such as timber and clay, contributed to the establishment of industries like logging and brickmaking.

In more recent times, Dinwiddie County has continued to evolve. The county has made efforts to preserve its historical heritage, with several buildings and landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the county has embraced modern development, attracting businesses and industries while maintaining its rural charm. Today, Dinwiddie County stands as a testament to the rich history and resilience of its past, while looking towards a promising future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dinwiddie County, Virginia.

  • 1752 - Dinwiddie County, Virginia, is established from parts of Prince George County and Brunswick County.
  • 1754 - The county is named in honor of Robert Dinwiddie, the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.
  • 1755-1763 - Dinwiddie County is affected by the French and Indian War, with various skirmishes and conflicts taking place in the region.
  • 1775-1783 - The county experiences the American Revolutionary War, with residents actively involved in the struggle for independence.
  • 1803 - Dinwiddie County is enlarged by adding territory from neighboring counties.
  • 1830s - The Southside Railroad reaches Dinwiddie County, facilitating transportation and economic growth in the area.
  • 1861-1865 - Dinwiddie County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War, with several battles and a significant military presence in the area.
  • 1890s - The county experiences a decline in agricultural productivity, leading some residents to seek opportunities elsewhere.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression brings hardships to Dinwiddie County as unemployment rates rise and the economy struggles.
  • 1940s-1970s - Dinwiddie County sees a gradual shift toward a more diversified economy, with increased industrial development and improved infrastructure.
  • Present - Dinwiddie County continues to develop and grow, with a focus on preserving its history while also embracing new opportunities for economic prosperity.