Ashland is the largest – and only incorporated – town in Hanover County. It was originally established as a resort town, but soon became a college town with the relocation of Randolph-Macon College from Boydton to Ashland in 1868. Ashland’s seven square miles are home to 6,000 residents, who are governed by a Town Council made up of five elected members.

Ashland’s devotion to preserving its proud heritage is apparent. The town’s historic district features over two hundred homes dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. Slash Church, the oldest frame church in Virginia, and three buildings on the Randolph-Macon campus are all listed on the National Historic Register. And Central Virginia’s first professional theater, the Historic Barksdale Theater at Hanover Tavern, is still in operation today. Even the Ashland Hanover Visitors Center is housed in the town’s 1920s train station.

The town’s quaint, residential character is enhanced by a number of parks and community areas. These include 13-acre Carter Park, 8-acre DeJarnett Park, 2-acre Pufferbelly Park, and 1/2-acre South Taylor Street Park. In addition, one mile of the Ashland-Richmond Trolley Line has been designated as a greenway. Local sports leagues are popular, and many of Ashland’s residents are bikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Hot air ballooning is one of the area’s major attractions.

Ashland’s community events include the Ashland Variety Show, held in March, and the Ashland Strawberry Faire, held in June. Like the Hanover Tomato, the Ashland strawberry is emblematic of the town’s commitment to supporting local produce, which is sold weekly from May to November at the Ashland Farmer’s Market.

From its quiet, safe streets to its outdoorsy, eco-friendly attitude, Ashland offers its residents a small-town alternative to nearby Richmond. If you’re interested in finding Ashland homes for sale or real estate, contact Erin Hungerford.