Imagine it is 1611. You are one of 300 settlers led by Sir Thomas Dale to build the Citie of Henricus, a settlement that the Virginia Company of London hopes will become the principal seat of the colony, replacing the unhealthy environment of Jamestown. You leave Jamestown to travel 80 miles up the James River and begin to build the citie named for the eldest son of King James I. You are going into an unknown wilderness where there is a constant threat of attack by Indians and Spaniards who seek to destroy the young struggling English colony.
Today, Henricus Historical Park is re-creating the second successful English settlement in the New World. Henricus is important because it is here that the American dream of success and self-reliance began. Four hundred years ago the opportunity of property ownership by the common man was a unique concept in the world. This innovative idea, the development of the first English hospital, the chartering of the first college in the New World, the English home of Pocahontas, as well as other important events that occurred at Henricus, contributed to the significant role that this settlement played in the creation of a way of life, and a nation like no other. Visit Henricus Historical Park and relive America's beginnings. Historical interpretation and reenactments pay tribute to Virginia's native people, the Indians, and the English settlers who carved a nation out of what was then Virginia's western frontier.
Location
251 Henricus Park Road
Chester, VA 23836
Driving Directions
Musket, Sword and Pike - May 17 & 18
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Experience a day in the life of the soldiers of Sir Thomas Dale’s militia. Visit with the soldiers in the Citie of Henricus, participate in a drill with the Henricus Militia, and see demonstrations of period tactics, armor, weaponry and artillery, including cannon firings at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The story of Henricus will be demonstrated by living history interpreters who will re-enact the establishment of the fortified Citie in 1611 through its destruction during the Powhatan uprising of 1622. Indian and Virginia Colony weapons and tactics will be compared and contrasted. Encounter programs also will be taking place both days, including musket drills and firings, pike and sword techniques, and domestic skills around the tobacco plantation.
The daily admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children. Henricus Historical Park is located at 251 Henricus Park Road. For more information, call (804) 706-1340.
Hours of OperationHenricus Historical Park is open 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
Ticket sales end at 4:00 p.m. daily
Admission
- Adults: $6
- Children: $4 (Children under age 2 admitted free)
$1 off regular admission for:
- Chesterfield and Henrico County Residents
- Senior Citizens
- AAA Members