HANOVER COUNTY

Hanover County is located 12 miles north of Richmond between the Chickahominy and Pamunkey Rivers. The county's 471 square miles include one incorporated town, the Town of Ashland. Ashland is an authentic railroad town and home to Randolph-Macon College, the oldest Methodist College in the United States.

Prior to the arrival of the first English settlers, Hanover County was a hunting ground for the Pamunkey and Chickahominy Indians. In the late 1600s, the area was settled by plantation owners and others involved in growing tobacco. The county was officially formed in 1720 and named for King George I of England, who was Elector of Hannover in Germany when he came to the British throne.

Patrick Henry, the first Governor of Virginia, was born in Hanover County and began his law career at the Hanover Courthouse. "Scotchtown," Henry's family home while Governor, has been preserved and remains open to the public. Henry also had a connection to the Hanover Tavern, an 18th-century tavern once owned by his in-laws. In 2005, it was renovated and reopened to the public and now includes a restaurant and theater.

Other historic attractions in Hanover include the Hanover Courthouse Complex, where Patrick Henry successfully argued the 1763 Parson's Cause Case against the British crown; the Black Heritage Society Museum with its exhibit about Ashland's African American Heritage Trail; the Ashland train depot, which reflects the segregation of early 20th century America; and Richmond National Battlefield, which has four sites commemorating Civil War battles.

If you're looking for adrenaline-pumping fun from March through October, don't miss Paramount's Kings Dominion, a 400-acre amusement park with one of the largest roller coaster collections on the East Coast, two children's areas and a 19-acre water park. Whatever the season, children of all ages will enjoy Ashland Berry Farm, where you can pick your own strawberries and pumpkins or enjoy a hayride. If you're looking for a more grown-up activity, visit Hanover's own winery, James River Wine Cellars. Memorial Day brings Hanover County Heritage Day, and visitors of all ages won't want to miss the annual Hanover Tomato Festival, which honors the county's most famous crop each July.

Approximately 86,000 residents call Hanover County home. One of the fastest-growing counties in Virginia, Hanover offers rural living with easy access to city life. Formerly a summer resort area, the town of Ashland's locally-owned shops and restaurants and quaint town center provide true small-town appeal. The Pebble Creek neighborhood mixes historic charm with modern living while River Run at Country Club Hills features luxury brick homes with riverfront and golf-course views. Active adults, ages 55 and up, enjoy Legacy Park's social center, pool and one-level homes.

For a complete listing of Hanover County attractions, search below or click here to visit the Hanover County website.