Richmond At A Glance

From a history that shaped a nation to modern marvels and quality lifestyles, Richmond has seen more than most cities in America. Centuries of activity have defined this river city, and there’s no sign of stopping it now! 

The presence of the James, Appomattox, and Chickahominy Rivers undoubtedly influenced early settlers. Richmond was officially founded in 1737, and then became the capital of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia in 1780. St. John’s Church, the site of Patrick Henry’s famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech in 1775, still stands among countless other landmarks and historic sites in the city. 

Richmond saw many battles and wreckage as a result of its temporary status as the Capital of the Confederate States of America. In 1865 at the end of the Civil War, retreating Confederate soldiers burned 25% of the city’s buildings. Richmond then entered a period of reconstruction and emerged to gain strength and economic stability that has grown throughout the centuries. 

Modern Richmond still holds many relics of its colorful history, entwined with notable additions that led MarketWatch to name Richmond the third best city in the nation for business as of September 2007. The area’s nine Fortune 500 companies have residents boasting about a favorable job market, and the city has recently added such downtown attractions as the Canal Walk, a new Greater Richmond Convention Center, and additions to both Virginia Commonwealth University for you to enjoy.