Shirley Plantation
Founded in 1613 and run by the same family ever since, one of the oldest family businesses in North America; its 18th-century mansion and brick outbuildings are well preserved.
Shirley Plantation lies on the north bank of the James River along Route 4, the 'Plantation Road.' It was Virginia's first plantation, and the Hill-Carter family has passed it down for more than eleven generations. The mansion, completed in 1738, is known for its 'flying staircase.' It is surrounded by brick kitchens, laundry rooms, storehouses and dovecotes, forming a rare, complete Georgian-style courtyard. Guided tours cover the family history and the lives of enslaved people. Admission is about US$30. It is about 55 km from Williamsburg and can be combined with Berkeley Plantation on the same trip.
Opening hours
About 09:30–16:30 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Berkeley Plantation
- Jamestown–Scotland Ferry
- Jamestown Settlement
- Historic Jamestowne
- Williamsburg Winery
- Wren Building, College of William & Mary
- Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
- Colonial Parkway