The Shirley Plantation

Nestled along the James River in Charles City, Virginia, Shirley Plantation is more than just a historic house—it is a living piece of American history. Established in 1613 and continuously owned by the Hill family since 1638, Shirley is widely regarded as the oldest active plantation in the United States, a remarkable continuity of family, land, and legacy stretching over 400 years.

The mansion that visitors recognize today was built in 1723, a grand example of Georgian architecture that has weathered centuries of change, war, and social upheaval. Its symmetrical brick façade, steep slate roof, and elegant portico exude a quiet authority, while its meticulously preserved interiors reveal the taste and craftsmanship of colonial Virginia. Inside, the rooms are organized with formal balance: the central hall flanked by parlors, dining rooms, and a library. High ceilings, richly carved wood mantels, and original hardwood floors showcase the refined artistry of 18th-century builders. Many of the furnishings, portraits, and decorative items have been passed down through generations, lending the house an authentic sense of its past.

Shirley Plantation has witnessed pivotal moments in American history. During the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, its walls and grounds bore witness to soldiers and strategies, and the estate has evolved while maintaining its historic footprint. The plantation’s riverfront location made it a hub of colonial trade, and its grounds still include the original gardens, farm buildings, and river wharf, offering a glimpse into life across centuries.

Despite its age, Shirley Plantation is not merely a museum—it is a living home and working farm. The Hill family continues to reside on the property and oversee agricultural operations, blending modern life with historical stewardship. Walking through the house or across the grounds, one senses a continuum: the same river views, the same brick paths, the same rooms that generations have inhabited, now enriched with both memory and living purpose.

Shirley Plantation is often described as a time capsule of American history, yet it is also very much alive. Its enduring presence tells a story of resilience, tradition, and the seamless intertwining of private family life with national heritage. It is a house where the past is tangible at every turn, but where people still call home—a rare and remarkable continuity that few places can claim.