Ford’s Colony isn’t just a collection of homes set amid rolling fairways and peaceful woods; it is a vibrant Williamsburg neighborhood with a unique history that echoes both the charm of colonial Virginia and the vision of contemporary community living. For longtime residents and newcomers alike, understanding the origins and heritage of Ford’s Colony brings a sense of place and belonging that makes life here feel truly special.
The Origins of Ford’s Colony
The story of Ford’s Colony begins in the late 1980s, when the Jamestown area was experiencing a renaissance of development anchored by Williamsburg’s growing appeal as both a tourist destination and a popular place for families and retirees. The land that would become Ford’s Colony was once woods and farmland, owned by several prominent Williamsburg-area families. Recognizing the demand for an upscale, master-planned community, forward-thinking developers envisioned a neighborhood that would blend modern amenities with the timeless beauty of Tidewater Virginia.
In 1986, Ford’s Colony was officially established, transforming hundreds of acres along Ford’s Colony Drive and extending to Arthur Hills Drive and John Pott Drive. The community’s name pays homage to the Ford family, early landholders in the area, whose presence dates back generations and who contributed to the rich tapestry of Jamestown and Williamsburg history. The “Colony” in its name is a nod to the broader colonial roots that define Williamsburg’s identity—tying past to present in a seamless weave.
Key Historical Milestones
Throughout its history, Ford’s Colony evolved with an eye toward maintaining nature and creating a connected neighborhood experience.
- 1986: Community Foundations
Ford’s Colony Golf Club opened its magnificent courses, designed by legendary golf architect Dan Maples. The arrival of the club set the tone for recreational life in the neighborhood—a blend of elegance, challenge, and natural beauty.
- 1990s: Expansion and Growth
The 1990s saw rapid development. Signature streets like Nottinghamshire, Edinburgh Drive, and St. Andrews Drive became home to elegant residences. Builders worked closely with the Ford’s Colony Homeowners Association to ensure every home complemented the lush, wooded surroundings.
- 2000s: Maturing into a Community
By the early 2000s, Ford’s Colony had matured. The community expanded beyond golf, focusing on social clubs, civic engagement, and park development, such as the addition of the Williamsburg West Park near the entrance, which became a gathering spot for dog walkers and families alike.
- 2020s: Preservation and Progress
Prioritizing green spaces and ongoing beautification, Ford’s Colony began initiatives to restore native trees and enhance recreation paths along Ford’s Colony Drive and Longhill Road. Heritage walks and historical signs now dot the neighborhood, telling stories of Williamsburg’s colonial and agricultural past.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
Every corner of Ford’s Colony whispers history, but a few landmarks and community buildings stand out:
- Ford’s Colony Country Club
The heart of the neighborhood, located off Ford’s Colony Drive, is more than just a golf club—it’s a gathering point for community life. Its stately clubhouse, with sweeping views of the Gold, Blue, and Black golf courses, hosts neighborhood events, weddings, and civic meetings.
- Windsor Great Park
Nestled between Edinburgh Drive and Nottinghamshire, Windsor Great Park offers a glimpse into the planned beauty of Ford’s Colony. With its walking trails, flower beds, and small lake, it is a favorite spot for birdwatchers and picnickers.
- Westbury Pool and Tennis Complex
Situated on Westbury Drive, this recreation hub is a highlight for families. Generations of children and adults alike have enjoyed swimming lessons, holiday parties, and tennis matches under its canopy of pines.
- Ford’s Colony Nature Trail
Meandering from John Pott Drive toward the community’s northern end, this trail connects residents with the woods and wildlife that originally drew settlers—and later, developers—to the area. Interpretive signs share fun facts about local flora and the neighborhood’s early days.
Streets That Tell a Story
One of the charming quirks of Ford’s Colony is that many street names reflect its colonial heritage and English inspirations:
- John Pott Drive is named for Jamestown’s second governor, who, like many early settlers, saw the promise of the land.
- Edinburgh Drive and Nottinghamshire recall both British heritage and the old-world feel the neighborhood strives to emulate.
- Ford’s Colony Drive itself acts as the neighborhood’s “main street,” bordered by mature oaks and lined with lantern-style lighting that recalls Williamsburg’s historic district.
Community Spirit and Evolution
Ford’s Colony’s history isn’t limited to its founding years; it is renewed daily through the warmth and connection of its residents. Over the decades, the community has built a robust social calendar—from seasonal farmers markets on St. Andrews Drive to July 4th parades winding past Sunningdale and Royal Aberdeen.
The Ford’s Colony Homeowners Association plays a central role in fostering community spirit, supporting garden clubs, book groups, and even historical walking tours that welcome both newcomers and seasoned locals. In recent years, special care has been given to maintaining the architectural integrity of homes and encouraging sustainable development, keeping in mind the area’s deep roots.
The Enduring Appeal of Ford’s Colony
What sets Ford’s Colony apart is how it honors its past while embracing the future. Residents enjoy the rare privilege of living in a neighborhood where centuries-old trees stand alongside innovative, environmentally conscious homes, and where stories of the land’s early owners are shared alongside plans for new gathering spaces.
Whether strolling through Windsor Great Park at sunset or sharing stories at the country club, those who call Ford’s Colony home feel a sense of history just beneath their feet—a reminder that this community, like Williamsburg itself, is a living bridge between Virginia’s storied past and its hopeful future.
If you ever find yourself driving along Ford’s Colony Drive, take a moment to pause, walk the tree-lined paths, and listen to the quiet echoes of history all around. For those who live here, and for those who visit, Ford’s Colony is a place where the spirit of Williamsburg—heritage, hospitality, and home—shines a little brighter.