Sewell's Point

:For other people and things named "Sewell", see Sewell (disambiguation)

Local government – Shire to County to City – A Virginia tradition

Sewell's Point is an area of land. Never declared a town or city, it is more correctly described as a geographical area. The listing of political entities which have constituted the local government at Sewell's Point is complex, but typical of many communities in the state of Virginia dating back to the colonial period.

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During the 17th century, shortly after establishment of the Jamestown Settlement in 1607, English settlers and explored and began settling the areas adjacent to Hampton Roads. By 1634, the English colony of Virginia consisted of eight shires or counties with a total population of approximately 5,000 inhabitants. Sewell's Point was a part of Elizabeth River Shire.

Related Topics:
Jamestown Settlement - 1607 - 1634 - Shire - Counties - Elizabeth River Shire

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In 1636 the southern portion of Elizabeth River Shire became New Norfolk County, and was divided in 1637 into Upper and Lower Norfolk Counties. In 1691 Lower Norfolk County was in turn divided to form Norfolk County and Princess Anne County.

Related Topics:
1636 - New Norfolk County - 1637 - 1691 - Lower Norfolk County - Norfolk County - Princess Anne County

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Sewell's Point was to remain located in Norfolk County for over 225 years, until the independent City of Norfolk annexed the area in 1923. (Virginia has had an independent city political subdivision since 1871). The City of South Norfolk and Norfolk County merged to form the new independent city of Chesapeake in 1963.

Related Topics:
1923 - Independent city - 1871 - South Norfolk - Chesapeake - 1963

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