Lower James River Education Center
Our plans for the Lower James River Center at Colonial National Historical Park enhance this important hub for environmental education – connecting more students and the Lower James River region with the river and advancing our vision of a fully healthy river supporting thriving communities.
Through a partnership with the National Park Service, JRA currently utilizes an existing facility to lead education programs, conduct student activities and host community programs. The site is comprised of a building originally developed as a visitor contact station, a large parking lot and two National Park Service trails.
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Lower James River Center Location
The Lower James River Center, located at Neck O’Land on the Colonial Parkway, resides on historic property that witnessed the birth of Virginia and our nation. In 1607 English settlers considered a neighboring location but Captain Gabriel Archer argued in favor of this location, and in his honor the area was named “Archer’s Hope.” Unable to get ships close to shore due to shallow water, the English moved on and the next day chose a site across Back River and called it Jamestown. By 1619, the English settlement had expanded beyond Jamestown Island to this location between Powhatan Creek and Mill Creek, called Neck of Land.
Across centuries the area has served as a crossroads. Powhatan Indians walked ancient footpaths or paddled past in dugout canoes. By the eighteenth century, English, African Americans, and European immigrants dwelled here and, by the nineteenth century, used the road that connected the mainland with Jamestown Island. Between 1607 and 1609 Captain John Smith and his crew of adventures mapped nearly 3,000 miles of the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers, and documented the different native communities along the James River. Today Neck of Land is a gateway to the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.

Key Features of the Lower James River Center

With expert guidance from 3North Architects, JRA has developed a master plan of enhancements for the site including:
- Expanded Classroom: Larger space for group learning and interactive activities.
- Outdoor Learning: Pavilion for outdoor classes and events.
- Historical Exploration: Exhibits highlighting the river’s history and indigenous cultures.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly features like solar panels, rain gardens, and composting.
- Water Access: New boat launch for on-water activities.
