The Richmond area is officially part of the Tidewater region, but it is almost a distinct region--by preference as well as by design of history. Although the Richmond settlement at the falls of the James River was insignificant compared to the great plantations on the river and the delightful city of Williamsburg, it had an advantage that none of the others had--relative safety in time of war. Thus it was a natural site for the state capital. The history of Richmond is one of steady growth, and Richmond is unchallenged as the state's cultural leader. Richmond spans the James River and it's suburbs extend south almost to Petersburg--23 miles away, as well as to the north and west.
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Richmond, Virginia
