Colonial Agriculture in Princess Anne County

Princess Anne County, the precursor to modern Virginia Beach, was fundamentally an agricultural society during the colonial period. The land’s fertility and strategic location fostered a farming economy that shaped the county’s development for over two centuries, influencing its social structure, economic patterns, and eventual transition into a resort city. While later known for tourism, the early history of the area is deeply rooted in the cultivation of crops and livestock.

History

The establishment of Princess Anne County in 1691 carved out land from the larger Norfolk County, responding to the growing population and agricultural needs of the region. The initial settlers were primarily farmers seeking opportunities to establish plantations and cultivate the land. The county’s name honored Princess Anne, the future Queen Anne of Great Britain, reflecting the colonial allegiance to the British crown. Early colonial records indicate a dispersed population centered around small farms and larger plantations, all committed to agricultural production.

The agricultural landscape of Princess Anne County was heavily influenced by the prevailing economic system of the time – the plantation system. Large landholders utilized enslaved African labor to cultivate cash crops, primarily tobacco, but also wheat, corn, and other provisions. This system created a distinct social hierarchy, with wealthy planters at the top and a large population of enslaved people forming the base. The county’s courts and legal records document the complexities of this system, including disputes over land ownership, labor contracts, and the legal status of enslaved individuals. The reliance on enslaved labor was integral to the economic viability of many plantations, and its legacy continues to shape the region’s history.

Geography

The geography of Princess Anne County played a crucial role in determining the types of agriculture practiced. The coastal plain environment, characterized by fertile soil and a relatively mild climate, was well-suited for a variety of crops. The Great Dismal Swamp, though challenging to navigate, provided resources such as timber and game, and also influenced drainage patterns across the county. The waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, served as vital transportation routes for agricultural products, connecting inland farms to markets in Norfolk and beyond.

The varying topography within the county also led to specialized agricultural practices. Areas closer to the coast were often used for cultivating crops like wheat and corn, while inland areas with higher elevations were more suitable for tobacco production. The sandy soils near the ocean were less fertile but could be used for grazing livestock. The availability of freshwater sources, such as rivers and springs, was essential for irrigation and livestock watering, influencing settlement patterns and agricultural productivity. Understanding the geographic constraints and opportunities was key to the success of colonial farmers in Princess Anne County.

Culture

The agricultural lifestyle profoundly shaped the culture of Princess Anne County. Rural communities developed around farms and plantations, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and neighborly cooperation. Social life revolved around agricultural cycles, with harvest festivals, barn raisings, and other communal events marking important milestones in the farming year. Religious institutions, often established near agricultural centers, served as important social hubs, providing education, moral guidance, and a sense of community.

The diet of colonial residents was heavily influenced by agricultural production. Corn, wheat, and other grains formed the staple foods, supplemented by vegetables grown in home gardens and meat from livestock. Preserving food through methods like smoking, salting, and pickling was essential for ensuring a year-round supply. The skills and knowledge associated with farming – planting, harvesting, animal husbandry, and food preservation – were passed down through generations, shaping the cultural identity of the county’s inhabitants.

Economy

The economy of Princess Anne County during the colonial period was almost entirely dependent on agriculture. Tobacco was the primary cash crop, generating significant revenue for planters and driving the demand for enslaved labor. However, farmers also cultivated other crops, such as wheat, corn, beans, and peas, to provide food for their families and livestock. Livestock raising, including cattle, hogs, and sheep, was another important component of the agricultural economy, providing meat, dairy products, and wool.

Beyond the direct production of crops and livestock, a network of supporting industries emerged to serve the agricultural sector. Local artisans produced tools, implements, and other goods needed by farmers. Merchants facilitated the trade of agricultural products, connecting farmers to markets in Norfolk and other coastal towns. Watermills and gristmills were established to process grains, providing essential services to the farming community. The economic prosperity of Princess Anne County was inextricably linked to the success of its agricultural endeavors.

Notable Residents

While Princess Anne County’s colonial history doesn’t feature individuals achieving widespread national fame, several families established themselves as prominent landowners and influential figures within the local agricultural community. The Thoroughgood family, for example, owned a substantial plantation and played a role in the county’s early governance. The family’s legacy is preserved through the Thoroughgood House, a historic landmark that provides insight into colonial life. Similarly, the Littletons were another prominent family involved in agricultural pursuits and local affairs.

These families, and others like them, contributed to the development of the county’s agricultural infrastructure and economic prosperity. They often served as justices of the peace, members of the county court, and leaders in their respective communities. Their landholdings and agricultural practices shaped the landscape of Princess Anne County, and their contributions helped to establish the foundations for the city of Virginia Beach. Their stories, though often localized, are essential to understanding the county’s colonial heritage.

See Also

Virginia Beach History Thoroughgood House Great Dismal Swamp