In the 1700s, Midlothian gained notoriety as the principle source of Richmond-area coal. By the 1800s, the impressive rate of production provided the impetus for the state’s first railroad, the Chesterfield Railroad, which connected Midlothian to the wharves at Manchester. By the time coal mining became obsolete, the town’s focus had already shifted to providing housing for Richmond’s commuting workforce. Growth was further accelerated with the creation of the Swift Creek Reservoir and the 2004 completion of Route 288, and will continue with the planned construction of a large mixed-use development at the town’s western edge.

Despite the area’s rapid growth, Midlothian’s rich history and sense of community have been actively protected by civic groups such as the Village of Midlothian Volunteer Coalition. In the 1980s, the Midlothian Land Use Plan was adopted to provide and enforce standards for the town’s historic district. A new streetscape plan was developed and implemented, and hundreds of feet of sidewalk and landscaping were added to a 1.2 mile stretch along Route 60. Several historic sites were identified and preserved, including the 1870 Jewett-Bass store and the 19th-century Jacob Bass house. Current beautification plans include the addition of decorative streetlamps and more sidewalks.

Midlothian is home to ten elementary schools, four middle schools, and four high schools, including the James River High School, winner of the President’s Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. John Tyler Community College, a two-year institution serving 9,500 students a year, also has a campus in Midlothian.

If you’re interested in finding Midlothian homes for sale or real estate, contact Erin Hungerford.