New to the Community

Portsmouth, Virginia is in the heart of the Hampton Roads area on the eastern seaboard of Virginia. It is situated on the western side of the Elizabeth River, directly across from Norfolk, and is surrounded by the adjacent cities of Suffolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach. Portsmouth is easily accessed by Interstates 264 and 664, as well as state roads 164, 17, and 58.

The population of Portsmouth is 99,790 people as of the 2002 census. The area was originally settled as far back as the 17th century. Portsmouth was founded as a town by Colonel William Crawford in 1752 and became an independent city in 1858. Since the beginning of its history, Portsmouth has been associated with different branches of the Armed Forces because of its ideal geographic location. Today, Portsmouth continues to serve as a home to a number of military personnel that work at the shipyard, the naval hospital, and other local facilities.

Downtown Portsmouth, only minutes from the church, offers many unique restaurants and shops to visitors. Local attractions include the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, the Children's Museum, and the Shipyard Museum. Portsmouth is also served by the Fine Arts campus of Tidewater Community College.

In 1889, lots were laid out and the first house was built in the Park View neighborhood of Portsmouth. It developed as an outgrowth to what is now known as Olde Towne and was annexed by the city in 1894. Modern conveniences of the original neighborhood included electric lights and a streetcar connection to downtown Portsmouth. In 1968, Park View became one of Virginia's first conservation projects, a designation which allowed property owners to receive low-cost loans to preserve their homes.

Today, the community is filled with historic homes from the early 20th century. Park View is also home to the Beazley Center, which offers classes and events for senior adults, and Park View Elementary School. The multi-racial neighborhood has recently undergone a building boom of new houses and home renovation, including the Myrtles complex directly next to the church. As new neighbors move into our community, we look forward to reaching out and welcoming them to this area.

Check out this link for more information about Portsmouth:
http://www.portsmouthva.gov/tourism