Northumberland County lies between the Potomac River and the Rappahannock River on the peninsula known as the Northern Neck. Discoveries range from historic sites and the history of fishing to wetlands along the Chesapeake Bay. Agriculture on Virginia’s Northern Neck is also part of the story: one museum explores its history and the regional perspective of five counties.
Local History in Heathsville and Reedville
The Heathsville Historic District includes 100 buildings designated as contributing; most are built in vernacular architectural styles. The historic Northumberland County Historical Society building served as the county jail from 1839 to 1958 and has been repaired and restored. The society’s headquarters in Heathsville houses a genealogical and historical library, as well as a museum with local historical artifacts. The first-floor meeting room is wheelchair accessible via a ramp.
In Reedville, commercial fishing developed in the late 19th century, after Elijah Reed moved his menhaden fishing operation from Brooklin, Maine, to the Chesapeake Bay in 1874. Main Street is a one-mile National Historic District, flanked by water on both sides. This specific description of the town sits within a broader historical context: the development of a fishing operation that moved to the Chesapeake Bay.
Discover Agriculture
The Northern Neck Farm Museum was established in 2006 as a regional museum for five counties, with the aim of sharing the history of agriculture on Virginia’s Northern Neck. Exhibits include tractor models used from the 1920s to the present, as well as a unique dog-powered treadmill and a hand-operated seed-cleaning machine. These distinctive pieces give the exhibits a unique character alongside the tractor models.
In Lutherville, the museum includes child-friendly replicas of typical farm buildings that children can explore. Educational programs with hands-on activities are based on the Virginia Standards of Learning. In this way, the museum connects regional history with exhibits and activities that offer different ways to explore the subject of agriculture.
Wetlands and Birdwatching
Dameron Marsh Natural Area Preserve includes important wetlands along the Chesapeake Bay that support marsh bird communities. A beach habitat there is also particularly important for the federally threatened Northeastern beach tiger beetle. The significance of the area is reflected both in its wetlands and in its specific habitat for this threatened species.
At Hughlett Point, a variety of songbirds and hawks can be observed during spring and fall migrations. Shorebirds, ospreys, bald eagles, and wintering waterfowl can also be seen there. At Bush Mill Stream, a well-marked trail leads from the parking lot to an observation platform overlooking a freshwater tidal marsh. Visitors can watch shorebirds, bald eagles, ospreys, mallards, and possibly river otters there. These viewing locations offer different perspectives on birds and wetlands; at Bush Mill Stream, visitors can also keep an eye out for river otters.
Ferry Trips and Visiting Hours
Since 1970, Tangier Island Cruises has offered daily ferry trips from Reedville across the Chesapeake Bay to Tangier Island. If you’re planning the crossing, check the current schedule and prices in advance; both may change. The Artisan Store at the Heritage Arts Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Check these hours before you arrive.
Discover more destinations: Appomattox County, York County, Norfolk, Fauquier County, Winchester, Stanley.
Return to the main travel overview: Virginia.
