Berkeley Plantation: The Historic Virginia Estate Where America’s Story Began
Discover the Virginia plantation where America’s first Thanksgiving was observed, presidents were born, TAPS was created, and centuries of history still echo along the James River.
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Hello, Friends!
Some places that I tour don’t meet my expectations—and then some blow me away with what they offer. Berkeley Plantation, set along Virginia’s scenic James River, is one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever visited.
From the moment you drive down the long tree-lined entrance, it feels as though you’re stepping into another century.
But more importantly, few places in America can claim as many historic “firsts” as Berkeley.
Theses are events you’ve read about in history books—and when you visit Berkeley Plantation, you realize they all happened right there.
The First Thanksgiving in America
Berkeley Plantation traces its roots back to 1619, making it one of the oldest continuously occupied plantations in the country.
Long before the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock, a group of English settlers landed there on December 4, 1619, and held what many historians recognize as the first official English-speaking Thanksgiving in America.
Their charter actually required that the day of arrival “be yearly and perpetually kept holy as a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God.”
A monument near the river marks the location where that first Thanksgiving observance took place.
Standing there overlooking the James River, it’s easy to imagine those weary settlers arriving after months at sea, completely unaware they were creating a moment that would become part of the American story.
Home to Presidents and Founding Fathers
Berkeley later became home to the powerful Harrison family and played a major role in early American history.
Benjamin Harrison V, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and governor of Virginia, was born here. President William Henry Harrison was also born at Berkeley in 1773, and the plantation is tied to President Benjamin Harrison as well.
Incredibly, the first 10 U.S. presidents are known to have visited the estate at some point.
The Birthplace of “Taps”
One of Berkeley’s most fascinating stories comes from the Civil War.
During the Peninsula Campaign, the plantation became Union headquarters at nearby Harrison’s Landing. It was here in 1862 that General Daniel Butterfield worked with bugler Oliver Wilcox Norton to create the haunting melody that would become “Taps.”
The tune was first played on these very grounds before eventually becoming the bugle call used at military funerals across the United States.
Standing near the river where it originated gives the story an entirely different emotional weight.
The Historic Cemetery
One of the quietest and most beautiful spots on the property is the small family cemetery that sits on a high point and overlooks the James River.
Benjamin Harrison V is buried there beneath the shade of old trees, making a beautiful final resting place for an important historical figure.
What You’ll See on the House Tour
The guided tour through the 1726 Georgian mansion is beautifully done and filled with stories about the generations who lived there.
You get to see the elegant rooms filled with antiques, portraits, period furnishings, and amazing woodwork. The grand entrance hall once served as a ballroom, and many of the rooms still overlook the James River.
(I stared at the floor and thought about all of the presidents and important historical figures who walked on those same boards.)
Outside, visitors can explore the gardens, walk down riverside paths, browse through museum exhibits, and enjoy the scenic grounds at their own pace.
Planning Your Visit
Location
12602 Harrison Landing Road
Charles City, Virginia
It’s an easy day trip from Williamsburg or Richmond and makes a fantastic stop along Virginia’s historic Route 5.
Hours and Admission
Berkeley is generally open daily.
Gift shop and ticket sales: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Guided house tours: Hourly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Grounds open until 5 p.m.
Admission prices can vary slightly, but recent rates have generally been:
Adults: Around $15
Discounts available for seniors, military, and AAA
Reduced pricing for children and students
It’s always smart to check the official website before visiting for updated hours, pricing, and seasonal events.
Berekley Plantation is just one of the many hidden gems that can be found in The Patriot’s Journey: 250 Sites to Visit for America 250.
Need a Place to Stay?
I highly recommend the Hilton Vacation Club Historic Powhatan Williamsburg. You can find really good rates and it’s like renting an entire townhouse! It’s only a few miles from Williamsburg and only 18 miles from Berkeley, so convenient to everything.
There are a variety of Bed and Breakfasts and budget hotels in the area as well.
☛ Old Words
Here is this week’s old word!
Perambulation — a leisurely walk or journey; popular in the 1700s–1800s.
“Our summer peregrination took us from Revolutionary War battlefields in New England to hidden Civil War sites in the Deep South.”
I put together a list of 25 Historic Taverns to Visit for America 250.
You can grab the PDF guide to 25 Historic Taverns here
☛ The Poll
Results of Last Week’s Poll: Most of you got it right. The Revolutionary War officer who led a bayonet-only assault and earned the nickname “Mad” is Anthony Wayne.
Planning A Trip
🛌 Find the perfect accommodations with Booking.com. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, they have a room for every preference, including pets and pools.
🎡 Discover the best tours and activities with Viator or Get Your Guide. Explore iconic landmarks, take guided tours and immerse yourself in history.
🚗 Rent a car with Discover Cars and enjoy the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, explore the countryside and make the most of your trip.
✈️ Need a flight? Check FareDrop for the best deals.
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