Put in some legwork for a good cause!
Put in some legwork for a good cause!
Save The Plantation Site
History of the Site
Kingsmill Plantation, located along the James River in Williamsburg, traces its origins to the early 17th century when land was granted to English settler Richard Kingsmill. Upon his passing, and by the mid-17th century, the property came under the control of the Burwell family through a combination of inheritance, marriage alliances, and land purchases. By the 18th century, the property had grown into a prominent tobacco plantation under the ownership of the Burwell family, one of Virginia’s most influential colonial families. The plantation featured a grand manor house, extensive agricultural operations, and river access that supported trade and transportation.
During the American Revolution, the site’s strategic location made it significant, and it later witnessed activity during the Civil War. In the 19th century, the original manor house was destroyed by fire, marking the decline of the plantation era. Over time, the land changed hands and agricultural use diminished.
In the 20th century, under the ownership of Busch Properties and with the vision of Auggie Busch III, the property was uniquely transformed into a residential and resort community. Today, the area blends preserved historical elements with residential neighborhoods, golf courses, and resort amenities, reflecting both its colonial roots and its evolution into a contemporary destination while maintaining ties to Virginia’s early history.
Importance of the Site
Kingsmill Plantation holds significant historical importance as a reflection of early colonial development in Virginia. Established in the 1600s, it represents the expansion of English settlement and the rise of plantation agriculture, particularly tobacco, which became the economic backbone of the colony.
Under the ownership of the prominent Burwell family in the 18th century, Kingsmill exemplified the wealth and influence of Virginia’s planter elite. The site also reflects the labor systems of the time, including the reliance on enslaved people, making it an important place for understanding both economic growth and the human cost of colonial prosperity.
Its location along the James River gave it strategic value during both the American Revolution and the American Civil War, when waterways were critical for troop movement and supply lines. Today, Kingsmill’s historical importance lies in its layered story—colonial expansion, plantation life, war-era significance, and modern preservation. It serves as a tangible link to Virginia’s early history and offers insight into the social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped the region and the nation.