About

Hanover County was formed on November 26, 1720 from New Kent County along the boundaries of St. Paul’s Parish. Hanover County’s historic courthouse, believed to have been constructed between 1737 and 1743, is the second-oldest in the Commonwealth still in public use and is the official seal of the county, along with being the birthplace of Patrick Henry and Henry Clay. Other historical sites in Hanover County include Hanover Tavern across U.S. Route 301 from the historic Courthouse; Scotchtown, the home of Patrick Henry at the time of his famous “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech and his election as Virginia’s first governor; Rural Plains, which was owned by the parents of his first wife and is now part of a Civil War battlefield preserved by the Richmond National Battlefield Park; the memorial at the site of the Historic Polegreen Church where Virginians seeking freedom of religious expression gathered to worship freely; and several Civil War battlefields. Hanover County’s participation in the 250th commemoration is supported by the Board of Supervisors and the local committee appointed by the County Administrator is planning events, programs and activities.

Local Events

The American Revolution Experience
September 29, 2024 - October 26, 2024
Hanover County

This innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique ar... Read More

The Shelton Supper
October 04, 2024 - October 04, 2024
Hanover County

This five-course candlelight supper is served in the historic Hanover Tavern Cage Bar and features exquisite recipes from the personal 1744 cookbook o... Read More

United in Liberty, Divided in Design: Furnishings During the American Revolution
November 01, 2024 - November 01, 2024
Hanover County

An exhibit of furniture and ceramics from the period. Focus on comparing/contrasting regional style elements, regional woods, city vs. country living,... Read More