Historical Markers in
Northampton County, Virginia

A Good Start Arlington Bacon's Rebellion Cape Charles Cape Charles Colored School Cape Charles to Little Creek Cauldron Chesapeake Bay Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Concrete Ships Confederate Monument - Eastville, VA Debdeavon Edward Franklin and Dorothy "Dot" Wise Gibb Elijah Baker Eyre Hall Farm to Market Fisherman Island NWR Gingaskin Indian Reservation Grace and William Eyre Gristmill Grindstones Hampton Roads U.S. Navy Armada Historic Northampton County Court Bell Home of First Settler Home of the First Settler Indians Mansion Site Maritime Highway Northampton County Almshouse At Machipongo Northampton County Court Green Northampton County High School Northampton County Veteran's Memorial Old Courthouse Peter Jacob Carter Rails Overlooking the Chesapeake Bay Relic from Spanish Steamship Salem Methodist Church Site of the Almshouse Farm at Machipongo Site of Tidewater Institute Slavery on the Eastern Shore Stratton Manor The African American Almshouse The Barrier Islands Center The Chesapeake Bay Impact Crater The Custis Tombs The Dunes The Old Willis Wharf Storehouse The Quarter Kitchen Three Northampton Landmarks Towne Fields Wooden Remnant You are standing at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay,
Jamestown, Virginia, was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. It was founded in 1607 and served as the capital of Virginia until 1699.
Virginia random facts
Northampton County, located on the eastern coast of Virginia's Delmarva Peninsula, has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Established in 1634, it was one of the original eight shires created by the Virginia General Assembly. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Accomack and the Northampton Indians.

During the early years of settlement, Northampton County thrived as an agricultural and trading center. Tobacco quickly became the primary cash crop, which led to the establishment of large plantations and the importation of enslaved Africans as laborers. The county also saw the rise of a thriving shipbuilding industry, with many vessels constructed and launched from its shores.

Northampton County played a significant role in the American Revolution. Its residents actively fought against British rule and supported the cause of independence. Notable patriots, such as Governor Benjamin Guerard, Thomas Joynes, and Edward Outlaw, hailed from the county and contributed to the fight for liberty.

In the 19th century, Northampton County's economy experienced a decline due to changes in agricultural practices and the aftereffects of the Civil War. The once prosperous plantations struggled to recover, and many residents shifted to other forms of livelihood, such as fishing and shellfish harvesting. Today, Northampton County is known for its natural beauty, charming small towns, and preservation of its historical heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into Virginia's past.

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

  • 1632 - Northampton County was established as one of the original eight shires of Virginia.
  • 1642 - The county became an independent entity, separate from Accomac County.
  • 1670s - European settlers began to establish extensive plantations in Northampton County.
  • 1690s - Northampton became an important center for trade and commerce, with numerous wharves and warehouses.
  • 1774 - Northampton County citizens supported the American Revolution, forming committees and participating in local militias.
  • 1800s - The county's economy shifted from tobacco to the production of cash crops such as corn, wheat, and vegetables.
  • 1865 - The Civil War came to an end, leaving Northampton County devastated and in economic decline.
  • 1884 - The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel was completed, connecting Northampton County to the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
  • 20th century - Northampton County experienced significant changes with the rise of tourism and the decline of agriculture.