Church Hill

Welcome to Church Hill

Richmond is a historic city, and Church Hill is one of its most historic neighborhoods. The view from Libby Hill Park gave Virginia’s capital its name, and Patrick Henry’s speech at St. John’s Church inspired the American Revolution. During the Civil War, miles of Richmond burned, but Church Hill remained because of its high elevation. Much of its original housing is still intact.

Here on the Hill, residents hear cars rushing on nearby Interstate 95, Richmond’s skyline towers in the distance, and brick sidewalks lead to quaint corner restaurants. The Church Hill Association brings neighbors together through annual events, like a pig roast in the park each fall and the annual Irish Festival.

Due to its high elevation offering strategic views of the James River, Church Hill is one of Richmond’s oldest neighborhoods. These views inspired Richmond’s founder, William Byrd II, to name the city after the similar vistas in his hometown: Richmond Hill, London. Byrd also donated land and timber to build the neighborhood’s St. John’s Church, best known as the site of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death,” revolutionary speech. During the Civil War, many of Church Hill’s homes were used as hospitals for Confederate soldiers. Much of the neighborhood escaped destruction or burning during the Union Army’s capture of Richmond in 1865 because of its location. After the war, industrialization brought factories and warehouses to the area, particularly in the lower sections. Wealthier residents moved to newer suburbs, and the neighborhood became home to working-class families. In the 1950s and '60s, preservationists recognized Church Hill’s historical and architectural value, restoration efforts began, and by the 1970s, the neighborhood was a designated historic district. 

Over the last few decades, Church Hill has experienced a renaissance, with new businesses, award-winning restaurants and parks like Libby Hill and Chimborazo Park drawing residents and visitors alike.