Charles City County, Virginia
Charles City County is a small corner of Virginia with a surprisingly big history. Located east of Richmond along the James River, the county dates all the way back to the early 1600s. Yep, it’s that old.
Two U.S. Presidents were born here, which is pretty impressive for a county with only around 7,000 residents. Locals take plenty of pride in their heritage, with stories and traditions passed down through generations.
The historic plantations are a major attraction. Berkeley, Shirley, and Westover offer a glimpse into Virginia’s past and are open for visitors to explore. Beyond the history, the county remains largely rural, with farms, open fields, and plenty of peaceful countryside.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Charles City County |
| County Seat | Charles City |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Charles City, Ruthville, Providence Forge |
| Interstates and Highways | VA-5, VA-106, VA-156 |
| Etymology | Named after King Charles I of England |
| FIPS Code | 51-036 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 204 sq mi (Land: 183 sq mi; Water: 21 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.3435° N, 77.0564° W |
| Major Landmarks | Shirley Plantation, Berkeley Plantation, Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | New Kent County (North), James City County (East), Surry County (Southeast), Prince George County (South), Chesterfield County (Southwest), Henrico County (West) |
| Population | Approximately 7,000 |