Virginia Beach History Facts and Timeline

(Virginia Beach, Virginia - VA, USA)

The modern history of Virginia Beach goes back as far as 1607, when the first English settlers landed at Cape Henry before establishing the initial colonial settlement at Jamestown.

The spot where the settlers landed is now recognized by a cross at Cape Henry Memorial. This memorial cross is a replica of the original cross which was planted by the very first settlers on arrival at Cape Henry. Nowadays, Virginia Beach is a modern resort, but there are enough places of historical significance to satisfy those more interested in culture than entertainment.

Early Days

Before the English arrival, the area surrounding what is now Virginia Beach was occupied by Native American Indians, most notably the Chesepians. However, the colonialists soon began to make their mark, led by the English colonist Adam Thoroughgood, who was one of the area's leading citizens during the early 1600s.


In 1792, the Cape Henry Lighthouse was constructed, becoming the first of its kind to be built by the federal government. The original lighthouse is still open to visitors, as is the newer 1881 Cape Henry Lighthouse. Of interest, the new structure is the highest iron-encased lighthouse in the US. Visitors can still climb the old lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views across the Atlantic Ocean.

It wasn't really until the late 19th century that Virginia Beach began to grow in its own right. In 1888, the town got its first electricity and railway connections, while the resort's first hotel, the Princess Anne Hotel, opened in the same year.

The United States Life-Saving Service

In 1891, one of the saddest days in the history of Virginia Beach occurred when a Norwegian ship, the Dictator, went down off the Atlantic coast. The United States Life-Saving Service made a valiant rescue attempt, watched by guests staying at the Princess Anne Hotel. The ship's figurehead washed ashore a few days later and stood for more than 50 years as something of a memorial to the victims of this tragedy, as well as the brave work done by the rescuers.

Visitors can learn more about these rescuers by visiting the Old Coast Guard Station on 24th Street. This 1903 station is now a museum and features lifesaving equipment used by rescuers during this period in Virginia Beach history. There is also a comprehensive history of the lifesaving service from WWII onwards.

20th-Century Growth

Virginia Beach was incorporated as a town in 1906 and the following years saw it grow into a busy resort aimed at families. In 1952, it gained political independence from Princess Anne County before becoming re-amalgamated in 1963. By this time, Virginia Beach had become much better known, meaning that the new city kept its name.

21st Century Redevelopment

As the city moved into the 21st century, it received huge investment, which brought about the construction of the Virginia Beach Town Center complex (comprising offices, hotels, shops and eateries), along with the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

The first sections of the Town Center were opened as recently as 2003, with the center now an all-purpose entertainment complex complete with restaurants, shops and a performing arts center. Meanwhile, the 2005 Convention Center caters to large-scale events, such as tournaments, trade shows and conferences. Both venues ensure that the resort's future will compare favorably to the rich and fruitful history of Virginia Beach.