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Historical Department Narratives

Henrico County Archives

This page content is archived for historical purposes.

The County of Henrico, Virginia has had a long and endearing history since its early beginnings in 1611. In 1634, the Henrico Shire became one of eight shires in Virginia, whereby 13 localities that made up our Shire were individually created and remain our neighbors to the south and west. Henrico evolved into a County Manager Form of Government in 1934, and is composed of general government departments and public schools. The County proudly operates with the combined assistance from thirty-seven government departments, and over 10,000 government and public schools’ employees.

Map dated 1634 showing the 13 localities of central Virginia including the Henrico Shire.

Today, over 326,000 Henrico County residents live in a well-planned community of 244.06-square miles (635 square kilometers) consisting of beautiful residential communities, large expanses of fertile farm land, and carefully developed office, retail, and diversified industrial areas. Henrico has been recognized for premier schools, neighborhoods, and government operations. Henrico’s rich history has allowed the progression from early beginnings in 1611, to a distinguished place to live, work, and play.