Powhatan’s Birthplace Is Named One Of Virginia’s Most Endangered Places
- Desiree Dyer
- May 10
- 3 min read
RICHMOND, Va. — Today Preservation Virginia named the site of WaHōnSeNaKah (Powhatan)’s birthplace one of Virginia’s most endangered places of 2026.
Located on the north bank of the James River immediately downstream from present Richmond, Powhatan’s birthplace is depicted as a prominent settlement on historic maps and initial archaeological work has uncovered tens of thousands of artifacts at the site. The site holds immense cultural significance to Virginia’s Tribes and reflects a long-standing and ongoing relationship between Tribal Nations and the landscape. The property was later home to a plantation and enslaved community and it is recognized as the site of Richmond’s surrender at the end of the Civil War.
Today, it is one of the last undeveloped parcels near Richmond on Route 5/Old Osborne Turnpike — one of the oldest roads in the state and designated as a Virginia Byway for its high aesthetic and cultural value. It is also in danger of being lost to development.
“Powhatan’s Birthplace is a sacred landscape, shaped by more than 13,000 years of Indigenous history, memory, and survival — and it now stands on the brink of irreversible loss. This irreplaceable site, where generations lived, were buried, and endured, is now threatened by a multi-billion-dollar international developer that has failed to equitably collaborate with Virginia’s Tribal Nations. If we fail to act now, we will not only destroy one of the Chesapeake’s most significant cultural sites, we will sever a living connection to the ancestors, descendants, and histories that still call this place home,” said Dr. Ashley Spivey, Pamunkey Tribal Citizen and Executive Director of Kenah Consulting.
A private company is reviving plans to develop the 530-acre property. When this development was originally approved, Virginia’s Tribes had not received federal recognition and had far more limited capacity to engage in state and local decision-making processes.
Statements from Tribal representatives
Chief Stephen Adkins, Chickahominy Indian Tribe: “In my view there is never a wrong time to do the right thing. Such is the case with Powhatan’s birthplace. The right thing to do is preserve, protect, and interpret this space in order for present and future generations to gain an understanding of this powerful leader. A leader who has inspired indigenous leaders for centuries.”
Chief Kevin Brown, Pamunkey Indian Tribe: “The Pamunkey Indian Tribe celebrates the inclusion of Powhatan’s Birthplace in Preservation Virginia’s 2026 list of Virginia’s Most Endangered Historic Places. Powhatan’s Birthplace is a site of profound historic and cultural significance, not only to Virginia Tribes but to the broader story of American history. For centuries, this land has held irreplaceable cultural resources and ancestral connections that deserve protection and respect. The destruction of the history and cultural material beneath the surface of this site would be an immeasurable loss to both Tribal communities and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Recognition by Preservation Virginia helps bring much-needed awareness to the importance and possibility of preserving this sacred and historic place for future generations.”
Chief Mark T. Falling Star Custalow, Mattapoini Indian Tribe: “Although the Mattaponi Indian Tribe is not yet federally recognized, it is home to one of the oldest reservations in the United States and was part of the original core Tribes of the Powhatan Chiefdom. In this important matter, we felt it was essential to stand in unity with the other Tribes. We deeply respect and honor this sacred site, and it must not be disturbed.”
Connor Tupponce, Upper Mattaponi Tribe: Tribal Historic Preservation Advisory Board: “It is our responsibility, as tribal people, to be stewards of the culturally significant resources that our ancestors have left behind. This is consistent with our traditional teachings to ensure that cultural knowledge and practices are passed down to the next generation. At the core of those teachings is our obligation to safeguard sacred places, where our ancestors still rest today. Powhatan’s birthplace is among those sacred places that connect us to our culture and spirituality. This designation by Preservation Virginia affirms the understanding that we’ve known for generations: our sacred places are in critical danger of permanent desecration. Today, the Upper Mattaponi people stand with our sister tribes in calling for this sacred place to be protected in perpetuity, not only for our ancestors, but for the next generation to come.”
The Southern Environmental Law Center and other preservation partners are assisting efforts for renewed tribal engagement and coordination to determine future plans for the property.
Comments