Virginia: The Old Dominion State

Introduction

Virginia, nicknamed “The Old Dominion State,” is one of the most historically important states in the United States. It was the site of the first permanent English colony, the birthplace of many U.S. presidents, and home to key events in the American Revolution and Civil War. From the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is a mix of past and present, where history and nature live side by side. With charming small towns, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities, Virginia invites visitors to learn, explore, and enjoy.

Quick Fact Box

• State Name: Virginia
• Nickname: The Old Dominion State
• Capital: Richmond
• Largest City: Virginia Beach
• Statehood: June 25, 1788 (10th state)
• Population: About 8.7 million
• State Bird: Northern Cardinal
• State Flower & Tree: American Dogwood
• State Motto: “Sic Semper Tyrannis” (Thus Always to Tyrants)
• Major Industries: Government, military, technology, agriculture, tourism

Where in the USA is Virginia?

Virginia lies on the East Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region. It borders Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and North Carolina, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Potomac River forming part of its northern boundary.

Geographically, Virginia includes the Coastal Plain (Tidewater), Piedmont, Blue Ridge Mountains, Valley and Ridge, and Appalachian Plateau—ranging from beaches and wetlands to rolling hills and forested mountains.

Landmarks and Attractions

Jamestown (1607) and nearby Colonial Williamsburg bring 18th-century life to modern visitors. Historic homes like Monticello (Thomas Jefferson) and Mount Vernon (George Washington) showcase early presidential life, while Appomattox Court House marks the Civil War’s end.

Nature highlights include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park, and Luray Caverns. Virginia Beach offers sun, surf, and a lively boardwalk.

State Symbols & Emblems

The Northern Cardinal is the state bird, and the American Dogwood serves as both flower and tree. Virginia’s flag depicts the goddess Virtus standing over a defeated tyrant, with the motto “Sic Semper Tyrannis.” Its nickname “Old Dominion” reflects its status as England’s first American territory.

People, Culture & Economy

Virginia blends Southern tradition with modern innovation, reflecting Native American heritage, African American traditions, and European influences. Its economy thrives on government and military employment, a booming technology sector in Northern Virginia, agriculture (tobacco, soybeans, apples, peanuts), and tourism around its beaches, mountains, and historic sites.

Seafood specialties include Chesapeake Bay blue crabs and Virginia oysters, alongside country ham, apple cider, and peanut products.

Famous People from Virginia

• George Washington – First U.S. President
• Thomas Jefferson – Third U.S. President
• James Madison – Fourth U.S. President
• James Monroe – Fifth U.S. President
• Robert E. Lee – Confederate general
• Ella Fitzgerald – Jazz singer
• Katie Couric – Journalist
• Pharrell Williams – Music producer

Climate, Ecosystems & Conservation

Virginia has a humid subtropical climate: hot summers, mild to cool winters, and snow in the mountains. Ecosystems range from wetlands and marshes to forests, rivers and estuaries, and mountain habitats. Conservation efforts include state parks, wildlife refuges, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s restoration work.

Government, Education & Everyday Life

Virginia’s government comprises an elected governor, General Assembly, and Supreme Court, centered in Richmond. Top universities include UVA, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, and George Mason. Daily life features farmers markets, festivals, outdoor recreation, and community traditions rooted in colonial history.

Fun Facts

• “Mother of Presidents”: Eight U.S. Presidents born here.
• First North American Thanksgiving in 1619.
• The Pentagon, world’s largest office, is in Arlington.
• “Our Great Virginia” is the state song.
• Blue Ridge Mountains are among the oldest in the world.
• Over 120 state parks and natural areas.
• Alexandria was once part of Washington, D.C.

Vocabulary Words

1. Dominion – A territory or region ruled by a government
2. Colonial – Relating to the period when America was ruled by England
3. Estuary – Where a river meets the sea
4. Subtropical – A warm, humid climate
5. Assembly – A law-making body
6. Confederate – Pertaining to the southern states during the Civil War
7. Refuge – A safe place for wildlife
8. Tyrant – A cruel ruler
9. Conservation – Protecting the environment
10. Revolution – A dramatic change in government

Kid-Friendly Summary

Virginia is one of America’s most historic states! It’s where the first English settlers landed and where many presidents were born. From colonial towns and battlefields to mountains and beaches, Virginia is full of stories and adventures. Hiking, museum visits, and exploring old forts make learning fun in the Old Dominion.

Quiz: Test Your Virginia Knowledge!

    What is Virginia’s nickname?
    a) The Mother State
    b) The Colonial State
    c) The Old Dominion State
    d) The Mountain State

    What city is the capital of Virginia?
    a) Alexandria
    b) Richmond
    c) Norfolk
    d) Fairfax

    Which famous U.S. President was born in Virginia?
    a) Abraham Lincoln
    b) George Washington
    c) Theodore Roosevelt
    d) Barack Obama

    What river forms part of Virginia’s border with Washington, D.C.?
    a) Mississippi
    b) Potomac
    c) James
    d) York

    What is Virginia’s state bird?
    a) Bluebird
    b) Cardinal
    c) Sparrow
    d) Eagle

    What kind of climate does Virginia have?
    a) Arctic
    b) Tropical
    c) Humid subtropical
    d) Desert

    What famous Civil War event happened at Appomattox Court House?
    a) The first battle
    b) The president’s speech
    c) The final surrender
    d) A peace treaty

    What natural feature lies along Virginia’s western edge?
    a) Rocky Mountains
    b) Sierra Nevada
    c) Blue Ridge Mountains
    d) Coastal Plain

    What city in Virginia is known for its beach boardwalk?
    a) Norfolk
    b) Roanoke
    c) Virginia Beach
    d) Williamsburg

    What historic area lets you walk through a recreated colonial town?
    a) Roanoke Island
    b) Mount Vernon
    c) Colonial Williamsburg
    d) Gettysburg