Take a day across the James River
During a trip to Williamsburg, you can visit Williamsburg , Busch Gardens , Water Country, Jamestown . While at Jamestown you will noticed these large ferry boats running every 30 minutes across the river to the "Surry Side". First, the best thing, the Ferry boat ride is free. When you dock on the other side, you have a beautiful ride through the country. The first historical place you'll come upon is about three to four miles up the road.
Smith's Fort Plantation
Coming from the Jamestown/Scotland ferry, you drive approximately 3 to 4 miles and on your right will be this beautiful historical residence. Smith's Fort Plantation is a house and parcel of land. The current main house on the property, also known as the Faulcon House, was built in 1751, but the plantation received its name because it was the location of the Fort built by Captain John Smith in 1609. He built this right across the James River from the Jamestown Colony as a second place to go during any attacks.
This same land was later given by Chief Powhatan to John Rolfe as dowry when Rolfe and Pocahontas married. Archaeological surveys of the property show that a number of structures have existed on the property. The present, restored main house was built by Jacob Faulcon in 1751 .
- Smith's Fort Hours :
- Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm
- Sunday 12 - pm - 4 pm
- Adults $7
- Senior Citizens 5
- Children 6-17 $4 Under 6 free
- One admission gets you into both Smith’s Fort and Bacon’s Castle
Bacon's Castle
Bacon's Castle This is a wonderful walk through history for adults and children alike. Bacon's Castle is one of the best examples of America 's “high style 17th-century domestic architecture” but more interesting, it is the oldest documented house in Virginia . The house was built for prosperous planter Arthur Allen in 1665. It’s building style is called “Jacobean “ the brick house includes curvilinear gables, diagonal chimney stacks and a cruciform plan. A beautiful historical house to see and you stand on the grounds of significant history. The house is named because of the supporters of Nathaniel Bacon's revolt against Governor William Berkeley occupied the building in 1676 during Bacon's Rebellion.
Little history… Seventy followers of Nathaniel Bacon ousted Arthur Allen and made his home their Surry County headquarters for four months. Allen was a member of Virginia 's House of Burgesses and a loyal supporter of Governor Berkeley, it is not surprising that his home was used by the people that were trying to overthrow the colonial government. The price of Smith’s Fort allows you to visit Bacon’s Castle as well, two for one, so take advantage of that and you’ll find it worth it. Upon exiting Bacon's Castle, ask about the 3 block drive to the remains of one of the oldest cemeteries and churches in the former colony - Southwark Parish. It's just a stone's throw from the Bacon Castle home. This area is steeped in history and the drive to the countryside is lovely
The hours for both Smith's Fort and Bacon's Castle are the same.
Chippokes Plantation State Park
Chippokes Plantation State Park: Save the best for last.. Now, on your way back from Bacon’s Castle, you will see the road to Chippokes Plantation State Park on your right side as you travel back down Rt 10.
This is such an absolutely beautiful park that takes you straight down to the James River . Go there first, let the children run freely or as adults take a romantic slow stroll along the James where, if you search diligently, you will find shark’s teeth on the beach, or easily find beautiful shells which have come from the banks of the river and are actually fossils over a million years old! What a treasure!
The information for the park is endless! Two beautiful homes occupy this state park: the original home built closest to the river, and the formal mansion with its beautiful gardens. This is one of the oldest working farms in the United States . It is a living historical exhibit and a joy to see. Captain William Powell, a prominent colonial gentleman, received a grant for 550 acres of river frontage on Chippokes Creek in 1619. This is the first record of ownership for this land. The plantation and the bordering creek were named for an Indian chief who befriended the early English settlers. Under the ownership of Colonel Henry Bishop in 1646, the plantation was expanded to its present boundaries encompassing 1,403 acres.
In this beautiful park there are three furnished cabins that you can reserve for your stay as well. Please check their website for complete details. If you enjoy camping, there are also several sites to camp in as well! Chippokes operates a beautiful pool facility as well. It is only open seasonally, so check before you go.
Eating
There are several eateries "across the river" you could try.
End your day at the Surrey House Restaurant. This neat little place was built in 1954 and was the mainstay for eating in the town. It’s wonderful southern cooking, steaks, seafood, sandwiches, homemade pies, yummy. Such reasonable prices and it actually has a little 10 room Inn if you want that “hotel” stay without the Williamsburg prices. Look to their website for information where you’ll see their menu and pricing. www.surreyhouserestaurant.com For another option, take the extra time and drive to Wakefield on VA-31 to the intersection with US-460, then about .4 mile to the Virignia Diner (profiled on the Food Network), fantastic local Virginia fare. You won't be disappointed at either place. Or take VA-10 to Smithfield, and try one of the eateries there.
Trivia
Finally, the last bit of trivia on this site. The Jamestown side was settled, much like London, divided by a river. There was the “Surrey Side” which was also settled. Sometime over the years, the “e” was dropped from “Surry” but that takes away nothing of the history and beauty offered on that side of the river.