Explore Berkeley’s gardens, grounds, exhibits, river shore, and museum at your own pace

In 1619, after a stormy voyage across the Atlantic, the Good Ship Margaret landed at Berkeley with 36 men aboard. In accordance with the instructions given in the charter, these settlers observed the first Thanksgiving in the New World. A monument, film and exhibits tell the story of these brave men. In 1691, the Harrisons purchased Berkeley and in 1726 the three story Georgian mansion was completed. The estate is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and William H. Harrison, ninth U.S. president. During the Civil War, Union troops occupied the plantation and the army bugle call “Taps” was first played. A monument to “Taps” stands on a hilltop overlooking the James River.