VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Another historical site in Virginia is receiving federal recognition — this time in Virginia Beach.
The Seatack Historic District is officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Commission made the announcement Tuesday, although the acclaim was official on May 28.
The historically African American community, which began growing in the late 19th century, is situated west of the Oceanfront, along Birdneck Road. The main area of the district is south of Virginia Beach Boulevard stretching to Seatack Park, while three noncontiguous areas of the district are located north of Bells Road and one north of Interstate 64.
"Historically, Seatack has been a resilient community establishing its own school and fire department, when none was provided for it," according to a release from the Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Commission.
The history is omnipresent with residences dating as far back as 1915 and spanning from minimal traditional to craftsman, ranch and colonial revival styles still standing today.
Further, the former Seatack Elementary School, which historians have dubbed "a cornerstone of the district," is used for the Virginia Beach Law Enforcement Training Academy.
In May, 13News Now spoke with residents and a historian who shared the significance of the accolade.
“Getting it on the record like it is now… it means everything. Maybe it stops some of these people coming into our community with ideas that doesn’t mirror our community,” explained longtime resident Donnie Gregory.
The federal recognition comes six months after the community was added to the Virginia Landmarks Register.
The honor opens the door for historical tax credits and federal protections for the community.