New Kent County is a gateway to history. Less than 30 minutes away are Jamestown, the site of America's first English-speaking settlement established in 1607, and Colonial Williamsburg, one of America's favorite tourist destinations. From Williamsburg, it's a short drive to historic Yorktown where Lord Charles Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington, ending the Revolutionary War.
Located in New Kent County, St. Peter's Parish was established on April 29, 1679. In the summer of 1700 the vestry ordered that a second Lower Church replace an earlier, structurally weak building known as the Broken Back'd Church. Construction of the new church, begun in 1701, and was in use by July 1703.
In January 1759 the Rector of St. Peter's Parish, the Reverend Mr. David Mossom, solemnized the marriage of Col. George Washington and Martha Dandridge Custis. It has always been assumed that another future First-Lady, Letitia Christian, later the wife of President John Tyler, was baptized in the parish church in 1790.
The original portion of St. Peter's Parish Church is one of the few Jacobean structures in America. Its 1740 stump tower is also rare. The body of the church is laid in English bond as are only three other colonial Virginia churches. In the churchyard are several colonial tombs. Arrangements for private tours or large groups must be scheduled in advance.
The 17,000 square-foot New Kent Winery designed by Williamsburg architect John Hopke, is the centerpiece of the New Kent Vineyards development.
The winery is constructed using materials reclaimed from buildings that are over a century old. Beautiful old heart-pine trusses are from a 1901 Southern Railroad Depot that was located in the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond. The Heart Pine timbers and floors came from a Connecticut warehouse that was constructed in 1852.
The stunning exterior appearance was achieved using handmade, pre-Civil War bricks merged with siding and roof shingles which were milled from Cypress logs that had been submerged in North Florida Rivers for over one-hundred years. Reprocessed copper bedecks the porch roofs. The result is an inviting and warm structure that reflects the quality wines produced within.
Nearby in neighboring Charles City County are two of the nation’s earliest and most beautiful plantations that are open to the public year-around.
Visit Berkeley Plantation, one of Virginia's most historic plantations boasting true southern hospitality and style. Come discover, learn, imagine and enjoy.
Shirley Plantation is Virginia's first plantation (1613) and one of the first economic engines of the new world.
In less than 60 minutes, you can visit some of the nation's premier museums.
The area boasts vibrant arts organizations including ballet, crafts, dance, music, opera, symphony, and theater.
7324 Vineyards Parkway, New Kent County, Virginia 23124 - phone: 804-966-9631 - Email