The History of Virginia Beach

The unique history of Virginia Beach can be found as far back as around 400 years. This is when the first English colonists came to America. The ships Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery stopped at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay on April 26, 1607. These colonists stayed in the area for three days and while they were there, they erected a cross and named the area Cape Henry. From there they ventured across the bay and then up the river to settle the Jamestown. Years later the Cape Henry area was settled.

The bay area especially around Cape Henry became very famous and the waters became very congested with merchant ships. The vessels had a hard time guiding their way through the bay and bonfires were set to help aid them to shore. For many years, discussions about building a lighthouse were heard, but not until 1792 did the light shine from Cape Henry Lighthouse.

The area around Cape Henry today is within the boundaries of Fort Story. Fort Story is a United States Army installation that is used for training by the Army, Navy, and the Marines. There is a memorial cross where the first settlers landed and the Cape Henry Lighthouse is nearby. Close to the same area is the Seashore State Park, which has recently had its named changed to First Landing State Park in memory of these brave settlers.

Lifesaving efforts began to increase after the Civil War and after 185 shipwrecks occurred between 1874 and 1915 along the Princess Anne County’s shoreline. There were 5 lifesaving stations built to aid the region from more mishaps. These lifesaving stations were the primary aid for any ships that were in distress in the area until 1915 when the United States Coast Guard formed.

Starting in the 1880’s Virginia Beach became a popular resort destination for many vacationers. The railroad came to the area in 1883, which transported guests from Norfolk to the ocean. In 1902, a passenger station was built at Cape Henry and served the Norfolk Southern Railway.

It was not until 1906, that Virginia Beach became a town and the year in which the town hall was built. Not until 1952, did Virginia Beach become a city that was independent of the Princess Anne County.

1936 was a very important year for Virginia Beach when they became the first state to open an entire park system. All of the new parks that opened on June 15, 1936 had modern outdoor recreational facilities while they protected nature. There were in 1936 six parks that started this wonderful park system today there are over 70 parks, which include natural areas and historic sits. Each one for the pleasure of their visitors as well as the protection of the wildlife in the area.

In 1963, Virginia Beach merged with Princess Anne County and officially became "The World's Largest Resort City".

Today, Virginia Beach has been listed in the Guinness Book of Records as having the longest pleasure beach in the world and is connected to the longest bridge tunnel known in the world, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.