Last updated: October 8, 2024
Place
Northern Neck National Heritage Area
Virginia Tourism Corporation
Quick Facts
Location:
Northern Neck Peninsula, Virginia
Significance:
Bounded by the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, the Northern Neck’s geographic location has both isolated and connected communities over time, shaping the social, political, and economic futures of all its inhabitants and the country. The Northern Neck offers a glimpse into Indigenous perspectives of the Rappahannock Tribe, the formation of a nation and early American history, the commercial fishing industry in America, and the agricultural heritage of the region.
Designation:
National Heritage Area
MANAGED BY:
Congress designated the Northern Neck National Heritage Area (NNNHA) in 2023. The Northern Neck Tourism Commission acts as the local coordinating entity for the partner organizations and five counties of the heritage area, King George, Lancaster, Northumberland, Richmond, and Westmoreland. The Northern Neck is conveniently close to major Mid-Atlantic cities, lying between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, extending into the Chesapeake Bay. This region is characterized by tranquil creeks and dense forest landscapes, ideal for wildlife observation at the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, state parks, and natural areas. The Northern Neck of Virginia, including a narrow peninsula that extends 70 miles into the Chesapeake Bay and measures only 20 miles at its widest point, helped shape ideals that are now recognized as distinctively American, and their influence continues within the United States’ political system. The five counties known as the Northern Neck were home to American Indian tribes, early American Presidents and signers of the Declaration of Independence, African Americans, farmers, fishermen, and conservationists. Each of these groups were influenced by and helped create the distinct Northern Neck culture birthed from the connections and isolation experienced on the peninsula.The area is quiet and rural, with small towns and historic districts connected by scenic drives. From fishing and boating to hiking, opportunities for outdoor recreation abound, especially at the three state parks and at historic sites. The temperate climate, rich history, beautiful scenery, waterfront recreation, and peaceful environment are why people are attracted to this area.
Beginning with English settlement in the 18th century, the people of the Northern Neck came to see their land as a “place apart,” with a local dialect and a distinctive landscape. Despite the overwhelming hospitality of the people, while traveling throughout the Northern Neck one can often hear the phrase, “a ‘come here’ or a ‘from here'". This distinction helps to explain the pride of place and the indivisible tie to the land and water resources as sources of economic activity and recreation. The economic impact of waterways as connections to and a separation from the larger Chesapeake Bay region is visible in thedevelopment of the vernacular landscape. From the 17th to early 19th centuries, waterways facilitated transportation to broader markets. Despite shifts to railroads and highways, the Northern Neck's economy remained rural, focused on water and agriculture. In the 20th century, this rural character led to recreational development, including resort areas like Colonial Beach. Today, the Northern Neck is home to museums like the Dahlgren Heritage Museum, which preserves the history of the U.S. Navy in Dahlgren, Virginia. Managed by the Dahlgren Heritage Foundation, they help support local economic development as well as local tourism.
Stratford Hall Historic Preserve
Reedville Fishermen’s Museum
Kinsale Museum
Belle Isle State Park
Northern Neck Loop of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail
Historic Christ Church
Lancaster Virginia Historical Society Museum & Library
Beginning with English settlement in the 18th century, the people of the Northern Neck came to see their land as a “place apart,” with a local dialect and a distinctive landscape. Despite the overwhelming hospitality of the people, while traveling throughout the Northern Neck one can often hear the phrase, “a ‘come here’ or a ‘from here'". This distinction helps to explain the pride of place and the indivisible tie to the land and water resources as sources of economic activity and recreation. The economic impact of waterways as connections to and a separation from the larger Chesapeake Bay region is visible in thedevelopment of the vernacular landscape. From the 17th to early 19th centuries, waterways facilitated transportation to broader markets. Despite shifts to railroads and highways, the Northern Neck's economy remained rural, focused on water and agriculture. In the 20th century, this rural character led to recreational development, including resort areas like Colonial Beach. Today, the Northern Neck is home to museums like the Dahlgren Heritage Museum, which preserves the history of the U.S. Navy in Dahlgren, Virginia. Managed by the Dahlgren Heritage Foundation, they help support local economic development as well as local tourism.
Historic Sites and Points of Interest:
George Washington Birthplace National MonumentStratford Hall Historic Preserve
Reedville Fishermen’s Museum
Kinsale Museum
Belle Isle State Park
Northern Neck Loop of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail
Historic Christ Church
Lancaster Virginia Historical Society Museum & Library
Notable People
- George Washington
- James Madison
- James Monroe
- Captain John Smith
- Rappahannock Tribe
- Armistead S. Nickens
- The Lee Brothers - Richard Henry Lee & Francis Lightfoot Lee
- Northern Neck Chantey Singers