Lynnhaven Parish: Difference between revisions

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```mediawiki Lynnhaven Parish is a historic ecclesiastical area within the city of Virginia Beach, Virginia, established in 1637 as one of the eight original parishes of the Colony of Virginia under the Church of England. Its boundaries historically encompassed much of what are now the former Lower Norfolk and Princess Anne counties, territory that today forms the bulk of Virginia Beach. The parish's most enduring physical legacy is Old Donation Episcopal Church, one of the oldest Anglican congregations in the Americas, which continues to hold services near the banks of the Lynnhaven River. The parish is also historically connected to the 1706 trial of Grace Sherwood, the last person tried for witchcraft in Virginia, whose case was adjudicated within the parish bounds.

History

Lynnhaven Parish was established in 1637 as part of the organizational structure of the Church of England in the Virginia Colony. This formation was essential for establishing both governance and religious practice in what was then a sparsely populated coastal region. The parish initially extended across a vast territory, encompassing lands along the Lynnhaven River and the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Early settlers were primarily engaged in tobacco cultivation and relied heavily on the waterways for transportation and trade. The original parish church served not only as a place of worship but as the central community gathering point for social and political life. The vestry, a body of elected laymen who administered parish affairs, effectively functioned as a unit of local government, managing poor relief, road maintenance, and civic disputes alongside its religious duties.^[1]

The parish's early decades were shaped by its position within Lower Norfolk County, which was carved out of New Norfolk County in 1637 — the same year the parish itself was organized. When Princess Anne County was formed from Lower Norfolk in 1691, Lynnhaven Parish fell primarily within its boundaries, a geographic and administrative relationship that defined the parish's character through the colonial period. The area's strategic location along the Chesapeake Bay encouraged trade with England and other colonies, and the Lynnhaven River gave smaller vessels sheltered passage inland. The parish also experienced its share of violence: coastal raiding and piracy were recurring threats in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, and the parish's proximity to the bay mouth made it particularly exposed.

One of the most documented episodes in the parish's history is the witchcraft trial of Grace Sherwood in 1706. Sherwood, a local woman, was accused by neighbors of practicing witchcraft and causing harm to livestock and people. After several civil suits within the parish, Princess Anne County authorities subjected her to trial by water — a traditional English test — in the Lynnhaven River. She was convicted and imprisoned, becoming the last person tried for witchcraft in Virginia. In 2006, three centuries after the trial, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine issued an informal pardon clearing Sherwood's name.^[2]

Following the American Revolution, the disestablishment of the Church of England in Virginia fundamentally altered the parish's role. Without state support, many Virginia parishes struggled to maintain their buildings and congregations. Lynnhaven Parish was no exception. The original parish church, which had stood near the mouth of the Lynnhaven River, fell into disuse and eventual ruin. A successor congregation eventually built what became known as Old Donation Episcopal Church, which drew its name from a land donation that had supported the original parish. The 19th century brought gradual shifts from a predominantly agricultural economy toward modest commercial activity, setting the stage for the area's eventual emergence as a resort destination.

Old Donation Episcopal Church

The most significant surviving institution of Lynnhaven Parish is Old Donation Episcopal Church, located at 4449 N. Witchduck Road in Virginia Beach. The congregation traces its origins directly to the 1637 parish establishment, making it one of the oldest continuously operating Anglican and Episcopal congregations in the United States. The current church building dates to the 18th century and has been restored and expanded over the generations. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains an active Episcopal parish.^[3]

The church's name derives from a colonial-era land grant — a "donation" of acreage made to support the parish and its minister. The original brick structure suffered damage and deterioration over the centuries, but the congregation persisted. A later church, Emmanuel Episcopal Church in the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach, also grew out of the Lynnhaven Parish tradition, reflecting the population's spread westward and inland across Princess Anne County during the 18th and 19th centuries. Together, Old Donation and Emmanuel represent the ecclesiastical succession of the original 1637 parish into the present day.

Geography

Lynnhaven Parish is defined by a diverse coastal geography encompassing tidal rivers, farmland, wetlands, and ocean shoreline. The Lynnhaven River, from which the parish takes its name, is its central geographical feature. The river is actually a tidal estuary fed by several tributaries — the Eastern, Western, and Broad branches — all draining into Chesapeake Bay. The land surrounding the river is generally flat, with fertile, loamy soils historically well suited to tobacco and, later, a broader range of crops.

The parish also includes sections of the Atlantic Ocean coastline and the broad neck of land between the Chesapeake Bay and the ocean that defines the northern half of Virginia Beach. This geography shaped settlement patterns from the earliest colonial years. Planters required water access for shipping crops, and nearly every substantial early homestead in the parish sat on or near a navigable waterway. The natural environment includes extensive tidal wetlands, maritime forests, and barrier island habitats, providing refuge for migratory birds and a range of coastal species. The proximity to the bay has also meant that the parish's lowlands are vulnerable to storm surge and flooding, a reality that shaped both colonial and modern development decisions.

Culture

The cultural heritage of Lynnhaven Parish is rooted in its colonial English origins and its long maritime tradition. The early settlers brought English customs, common law practices, and Anglican religious observance, all of which were institutionalized through the parish vestry system. The vestry records — some of which survive in collections held by the Library of Virginia — offer a detailed window into daily life, property disputes, care for the poor, and the social hierarchies of 17th- and 18th-century Princess Anne County.^[4]

Over time, the arrival of new residents, waves of migration from other parts of Virginia and the broader American South, and the explosive growth of tourism in the 20th century all contributed to a more diverse cultural mix. The culinary traditions of the area have long centered on fresh seafood — Lynnhaven oysters, in particular, were celebrated across the eastern seaboard by the 18th century and gave the river much of its early fame. Local festivals and community events continue to celebrate the area's maritime heritage. The preservation of historic buildings, including Old Donation Church and the Lynnhaven House (ca. 1725), provides tangible connections to the parish's early history. The Lynnhaven House, a rare surviving example of early 18th-century Virginia vernacular architecture, is managed by the City of Virginia Beach and is open to the public.^[5]

One contemporary legacy of the parish is the Lynnhaven Parish Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, which in January 2025 marked 50 years of service to the Virginia Beach community. The chapter takes its name directly from the colonial parish and has been active in historic preservation, educational programs, and civic engagement across the region.^[6]

Economy

Historically, the economy of Lynnhaven Parish rested on tobacco. The crop dominated the region through the 17th and 18th centuries, and the Lynnhaven River and its tributaries served as the shipping lanes that carried hogsheads of cured leaf out to oceangoing vessels anchored in the Chesapeake Bay. Fishing and oystering ran alongside tobacco as secondary but important livelihoods; Lynnhaven oysters developed a strong market reputation that persisted into the 19th century. Shipbuilding and boat repair also employed workers along the river, taking advantage of the area's timber resources and sheltered anchorages.

The disestablishment of the Anglican Church after the Revolution, combined with soil exhaustion from intensive tobacco cultivation, pushed the parish's economy toward diversification in the early 19th century. Corn, wheat, and truck farming gradually replaced tobacco as the dominant crops. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the opening of rail connections to the oceanfront and the construction of resort hotels began drawing seasonal visitors, planting the seeds of the tourism economy that now dominates Virginia Beach. Today, the broader area encompasses a substantial portion of Virginia Beach's retail and commercial corridors, including the Lynnhaven Mall area, and benefits from the economic activity generated by Naval Station Norfolk and other military installations nearby.

Attractions

First Landing State Park, located within the former parish boundaries at the northern tip of Virginia Beach, preserves the site where English colonists came ashore in April 1607 — weeks before reaching Jamestown. The park's 2,888 acres include hiking trails through maritime forest, camping facilities, and frontage on both the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic. It draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is considered one of Virginia's most visited state parks.^[7]

The Lynnhaven House, built around 1725, stands as one of the best-preserved early 18th-century homes in Virginia. The brick structure survives largely intact and offers guided tours through the Virginia Beach Department of Museums and Historic Resources. Old Donation Episcopal Church, a short drive away, welcomes visitors interested in its colonial history and its churchyard, which contains some of the oldest marked graves in the region. The area also features marinas, waterfront dining, and direct access to the bay for boating and kayaking. The combination of documented colonial history, working waterways, and preserved natural areas gives the former parish an appeal that extends well beyond its ecclesiastical origins.

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-Lynnhaven Parish is a historic area within the city of [[Virginia Beach]], Virginia, originally established as one of the original eight historic parishes of the Colony of Virginia. Its boundaries encompassed a significant portion of what is now Virginia Beach, and its legacy continues to shape the cultural and geographical identity of the region. The parish’s history is deeply intertwined with the development of agriculture, maritime activities, and the eventual growth of Virginia Beach as a modern city.
+```mediawiki
+Lynnhaven Parish is a historic ecclesiastical area within the city of [[Virginia Beach]], Virginia, established in 1637 as one of the eight original parishes of the [[Colony of Virginia]] under the [[Church of England]]. Its boundaries historically encompassed much of what are now the former [[Lower Norfolk County, Virginia|Lower Norfolk]] and [[Princess Anne County, Virginia|Princess Anne]] counties, territory that today forms the bulk of Virginia Beach. The parish's most enduring physical legacy is [[Old Donation Episcopal Church]], one of the oldest Anglican congregations in the Americas, which continues to hold services near the banks of the [[Lynnhaven River]]. The parish is also historically connected to the 1706 trial of [[Grace Sherwood]], the last person tried for witchcraft in Virginia, whose case was adjudicated within the parish bounds.
 == History ==
-The Lynnhaven Parish was established in 1637 as part of the organizational structure of the Church of England in the Virginia Colony. This initial formation was crucial for establishing governance and religious practice in the sparsely populated area. The parish initially extended across a vast territory, encompassing the lands along the Lynnhaven River and the Chesapeake Bay. Early settlers were primarily engaged in tobacco cultivation and relied heavily on the waterways for transportation and trade. The parish church, originally known as Lynnhaven Church, served not only as a place of worship but also as a central community gathering point for social and political activities. <ref>{{cite web |title=The Virginian-Pilot |url=https://www.pilotonline.com |work=pilotonline.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
+Lynnhaven Parish was established in 1637 as part of the organizational structure of the Church of England in the Virginia Colony. This formation was essential for establishing both governance and religious practice in what was then a sparsely populated coastal region. The parish initially extended across a vast territory, encompassing lands along the [[Lynnhaven River]] and the western shore of the [[Chesapeake Bay]]. Early settlers were primarily engaged in tobacco cultivation and relied heavily on the waterways for transportation and trade. The original parish church served not only as a place of worship but as the central community gathering point for social and political life. The vestry, a body of elected laymen who administered parish affairs, effectively functioned as a unit of local government, managing poor relief, road maintenance, and civic disputes alongside its religious duties.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lynnhaven Parish, Virginia |url=https://www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Lynnhaven_Parish,_Virginia |work=FamilySearch |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
-During the colonial period, Lynnhaven Parish played a role in the economic and political life of Virginia. The area’s strategic location along the Chesapeake Bay facilitated trade with England and other colonies. The parish also experienced periods of conflict, including raids by pirates and involvement in larger colonial disputes. Following the American Revolution, the parish continued to evolve, adapting to the changing social and economic landscape of the newly formed United States. The agricultural focus remained prominent, but the parish also began to see the development of small-scale industries and a growing maritime presence. The 19th century saw the gradual shift from a predominantly agricultural society to one with increasing commercial activity, setting the stage for the eventual transformation of the area into the resort city of Virginia Beach. <ref>{{cite web |title=City of Virginia Beach |url=https://www.vbgov.com |work=vbgov.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
+The parish's early decades were shaped by its position within Lower Norfolk County, which was carved out of New Norfolk County in 1637 — the same year the parish itself was organized. When Princess Anne County was formed from Lower Norfolk in 1691, Lynnhaven Parish fell primarily within its boundaries, a geographic and administrative relationship that defined the parish's character through the colonial period. The area's strategic location along the Chesapeake Bay encouraged trade with England and other colonies, and the Lynnhaven River gave smaller vessels sheltered passage inland. The parish also experienced its share of violence: coastal raiding and piracy were recurring threats in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, and the parish's proximity to the bay mouth made it particularly exposed.
+One of the most documented episodes in the parish's history is the witchcraft trial of Grace Sherwood in 1706. Sherwood, a local woman, was accused by neighbors of practicing witchcraft and causing harm to livestock and people. After several civil suits within the parish, Princess Anne County authorities subjected her to trial by water — a traditional English test — in the Lynnhaven River. She was convicted and imprisoned, becoming the last person tried for witchcraft in Virginia. In 2006, three centuries after the trial, Virginia Governor [[Tim Kaine]] issued an informal pardon clearing Sherwood's name.<ref>{{cite web |title=Grace Sherwood, the "Witch of Pungo" |url=https://www.virginiamemory.com/blogs/out_of_the_box/2012/07/10/grace-sherwood-the-witch-of-pungo/ |work=Virginia Memory, Library of Virginia |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
+Following the [[American Revolution]], the disestablishment of the Church of England in Virginia fundamentally altered the parish's role. Without state support, many Virginia parishes struggled to maintain their buildings and congregations. Lynnhaven Parish was no exception. The original parish church, which had stood near the mouth of the Lynnhaven River, fell into disuse and eventual ruin. A successor congregation eventually built what became known as [[Old Donation Episcopal Church]], which drew its name from a land donation that had supported the original parish. The 19th century brought gradual shifts from a predominantly agricultural economy toward modest commercial activity, setting the stage for the area's eventual emergence as a resort destination.
+== Old Donation Episcopal Church ==
+The most significant surviving institution of Lynnhaven Parish is [[Old Donation Episcopal Church]], located at 4449 N. Witchduck Road in Virginia Beach. The congregation traces its origins directly to the 1637 parish establishment, making it one of the oldest continuously operating Anglican and Episcopal congregations in the United States. The current church building dates to the 18th century and has been restored and expanded over the generations. It is listed on the [[National Register of Historic Places]] and remains an active Episcopal parish.<ref>{{cite web |title=Old Donation Episcopal Church |url=https://www.olddonation.org |work=Old Donation Episcopal Church |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
+The church's name derives from a colonial-era land grant — a "donation" of acreage made to support the parish and its minister. The original brick structure suffered damage and deterioration over the centuries, but the congregation persisted. A later church, [[Emmanuel Episcopal Church]] in the Kempsville area of Virginia Beach, also grew out of the Lynnhaven Parish tradition, reflecting the population's spread westward and inland across Princess Anne County during the 18th and 19th centuries. Together, Old Donation and Emmanuel represent the ecclesiastical succession of the original 1637 parish into the present day.
 == Geography ==
-Lynnhaven Parish is characterized by a diverse geography encompassing waterways, farmland, and coastal areas. The Lynnhaven River, from which the parish derives its name, is a central geographical feature, providing access to the Chesapeake Bay and serving as a vital waterway for transportation and recreation. The land surrounding the river is generally flat, with fertile soil suitable for agriculture. Historically, this area was heavily cultivated for tobacco, but over time, other crops and agricultural practices have been introduced. The parish also includes sections of the Atlantic Ocean coastline, contributing to its appeal as a coastal destination.
+Lynnhaven Parish is defined by a diverse coastal geography encompassing tidal rivers, farmland, wetlands, and ocean shoreline. The [[Lynnhaven River]], from which the parish takes its name, is its central geographical feature. The river is actually a tidal estuary fed by several tributaries — the Eastern, Western, and Broad branches — all draining into Chesapeake Bay. The land surrounding the river is generally flat, with fertile, loamy soils historically well suited to tobacco and, later, a broader range of crops.
-The geographical features of Lynnhaven Parish have significantly influenced its development. The proximity to the Chesapeake Bay has fostered a strong maritime tradition, with fishing and shipbuilding playing important roles in the local economy. The coastal areas have attracted tourism and residential development, contributing to the growth of Virginia Beach as a resort city. The parish's location within the Hampton Roads region also provides access to a broader network of transportation and economic opportunities. The natural environment, including wetlands and forests, provides habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the area’s ecological diversity.
+The parish also includes sections of the Atlantic Ocean coastline and the broad neck of land between the Chesapeake Bay and the ocean that defines the northern half of Virginia Beach. This geography shaped settlement patterns from the earliest colonial years. Planters required water access for shipping crops, and nearly every substantial early homestead in the parish sat on or near a navigable waterway. The natural environment includes extensive tidal wetlands, maritime forests, and barrier island habitats, providing refuge for migratory birds and a range of coastal species. The proximity to the bay has also meant that the parish's lowlands are vulnerable to storm surge and flooding, a reality that shaped both colonial and modern development decisions.
 == Culture ==
-The cultural heritage of Lynnhaven Parish is rooted in its colonial history and maritime traditions. The early settlers brought with them English customs and traditions, which were gradually blended with the influences of other cultures. The parish church played a central role in shaping the community’s values and social norms. Traditional agricultural practices and a strong sense of community were hallmarks of the parish’s early culture. Over time, the arrival of new residents and the growth of tourism have contributed to a more diverse cultural landscape.
+The cultural heritage of Lynnhaven Parish is rooted in its colonial English origins and its long maritime tradition. The early settlers brought English customs, common law practices, and Anglican religious observance, all of which were institutionalized through the parish vestry system. The vestry records — some of which survive in collections held by the [[Library of Virginia]] — offer a detailed window into daily life, property disputes, care for the poor, and the social hierarchies of 17th- and 18th-century Princess Anne County.<ref>{{cite web |title=Princess Anne County Vestry Book, Lynnhaven Parish |url=https://www.lva.virginia.gov |work=Library of Virginia |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
-Today, the cultural identity of Lynnhaven Parish is reflected in its historic sites, local festivals, and artistic expressions. The preservation of historic buildings and landmarks serves as a reminder of the parish’s rich past. Local festivals and events celebrate the area’s maritime heritage, agricultural traditions, and artistic talents. The culinary scene also reflects the region’s cultural diversity, with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. The area's commitment to preserving its historical character while embracing modern influences contributes to its unique cultural appeal. <ref>{{cite web |title=The Virginian-Pilot |url=https://www.pilotonline.com |work=pilotonline.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
-== Notable Residents ==
+Over time, the arrival of new residents, waves of migration from other parts of Virginia and the broader American South, and the explosive growth of tourism in the 20th century all contributed to a more diverse cultural mix. The culinary traditions of the area have long centered on fresh seafood — Lynnhaven oysters, in particular, were celebrated across the eastern seaboard by the 18th century and gave the river much of its early fame. Local festivals and community events continue to celebrate the area's maritime heritage. The preservation of historic buildings, including Old Donation Church and the [[Lynnhaven House]] (ca. 1725), provides tangible connections to the parish's early history. The Lynnhaven House, a rare surviving example of early 18th-century Virginia vernacular architecture, is managed by the City of Virginia Beach and is open to the public.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lynnhaven House |url=https://www.virginiabeachhistory.org/lynnhaven-house |work=Virginia Beach History |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
-While specific detailed biographical information on numerous early residents is limited in readily available sources, Lynnhaven Parish has been home to families who played significant roles in the development of Virginia and Virginia Beach. Many early landowners were prominent figures in the colonial government and contributed to the economic and political life of the region. Their descendants continued to be involved in local affairs, shaping the character of the community. Identifying specific individuals requires extensive genealogical research beyond the scope of currently available sources.
-In more recent times, Lynnhaven Parish has attracted residents from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, artists, and community leaders. These individuals have contributed to the growth and vitality of Virginia Beach. While a comprehensive list of notable residents is not currently available, their contributions have helped to shape the city’s cultural and economic landscape. Further research into local historical records and community archives would be necessary to compile a more detailed list of notable residents and their accomplishments. <ref>{{cite web |title=City of Virginia Beach |url=https://www.vbgov.com |work=vbgov.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
+One contemporary legacy of the parish is the Lynnhaven Parish Chapter of the [[National Society Daughters of the American Revolution]], which in January 2025 marked 50 years of service to the Virginia Beach community. The chapter takes its name directly from the colonial parish and has been active in historic preservation, educational programs, and civic engagement across the region.<ref>{{cite web |title=Letters for Jan. 29 |url=https://www.pilotonline.com/2026/01/28/letters-for-jan-29-how-many-images-will-it-take-to-enrage-the-public/ |work=The Virginian-Pilot |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
 == Economy ==
-Historically, the economy of Lynnhaven Parish was primarily based on agriculture, particularly tobacco cultivation. The fertile land and access to waterways facilitated the production and transportation of crops. Fishing and shipbuilding also played important roles in the local economy, providing livelihoods for many residents. The parish’s strategic location along the Chesapeake Bay fostered trade with England and other colonies.
+Historically, the economy of Lynnhaven Parish rested on tobacco. The crop dominated the region through the 17th and 18th centuries, and the Lynnhaven River and its tributaries served as the shipping lanes that carried hogsheads of cured leaf out to oceangoing vessels anchored in the Chesapeake Bay. Fishing and oystering ran alongside tobacco as secondary but important livelihoods; Lynnhaven oysters developed a strong market reputation that persisted into the 19th century. Shipbuilding and boat repair also employed workers along the river, taking advantage of the area's timber resources and sheltered anchorages.
-Over time, the economy of Lynnhaven Parish has diversified, transitioning from a predominantly agricultural base to one that includes tourism, retail, and service industries. The growth of Virginia Beach as a resort city has created numerous employment opportunities in the hospitality sector. The area also benefits from its proximity to the Hampton Roads region, which is home to a major naval base and a diverse range of industries. The ongoing development of commercial and residential areas within the parish continues to contribute to its economic growth. <ref>{{cite web |title=The Virginian-Pilot |url=https://www.pilotonline.com |work=pilotonline.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
+The disestablishment of the Anglican Church after the Revolution, combined with soil exhaustion from intensive tobacco cultivation, pushed the parish's economy toward diversification in the early 19th century. Corn, wheat, and truck farming gradually replaced tobacco as the dominant crops. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the opening of rail connections to the oceanfront and the construction of resort hotels began drawing seasonal visitors, planting the seeds of the tourism economy that now dominates Virginia Beach. Today, the broader area encompasses a substantial portion of Virginia Beach's retail and commercial corridors, including the Lynnhaven Mall area, and benefits from the economic activity generated by [[Naval Station Norfolk]] and other military installations nearby.
 == Attractions ==
-Lynnhaven Parish boasts a number of attractions that draw visitors and contribute to the area’s appeal. First Landing State Park, located within the parish, preserves the site where English colonists first landed in 1607. The park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural environment. The Lynnhaven House, a historic home dating back to 1725, provides a glimpse into the life of early settlers.
+[[First Landing State Park]], located within the former parish boundaries at the northern tip of Virginia Beach, preserves the site where English colonists came ashore in April 1607 — weeks before reaching [[Jamestown]]. The park's 2,888 acres include hiking trails through maritime forest, camping facilities, and frontage on both the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic. It draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is considered one of Virginia's most visited state parks.<ref>{{cite web |title=First Landing State Park |url=https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/first-landing |work=Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation |access-date=2025-02-25}}</ref>
-The area also features several marinas and waterfront restaurants, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and dining. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provides access to beaches and water sports activities. Local farmers markets and antique shops offer unique shopping experiences. The combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes Lynnhaven Parish a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. <ref>{{cite web |title=City of Virginia Beach |url=https://www.vbgov.com |work=vbgov.com |access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref>
+The [[Lynnhaven House]], built around 1725, stands as one of the best-preserved early 18th-century homes in Virginia. The brick structure survives largely intact and offers guided tours through the Virginia Beach Department of Museums and Historic Resources. [[Old Donation Episcopal Church]], a short drive away, welcomes visitors interested in its colonial history and its churchyard, which contains some of the oldest marked graves in the region. The area also features marinas, waterfront dining, and direct access to the bay for boating and kayaking. The combination of documented colonial history, working waterways, and preserved natural areas gives the former parish an appeal that extends well beyond its ecclesiastical origins.
 == See Also ==
-[[Virginia Beach]]
+* [[Virginia Beach]]
-[[First Landing State Park]]
+* [[First Landing State Park]]
-[[Chesapeake Bay]]
+* [[Chesapeake Bay]]
-[[History of Virginia Beach]]
+* [[History of Virginia Beach]]
+* [[Old Donation Episcopal Church]]
+* [[Grace Sherwood]]
+* [[Princess Anne County, Virginia]]
 {{#seo: |title=Lynnhaven Parish — History, Facts & Guide | Virginia Beach.Wiki |description=Explore the history, geography, culture, and attractions of Lynnhaven Parish in Virginia Beach, Virginia. |type=Article }}
@@ Line 41: / Line 51: @@
 [[Category:History of Virginia Beach]]
 [[Category:Virginia Beach Geography]]
+[[Category:Anglican parishes in colonial Virginia]]
+[[Category:Princess Anne County, Virginia]]
+```