Neighborhoods of RVA: Sherwood Park

Sherwood Park, although often overlooked in favor of the more renowned Northside neighborhoods like Bellevue and Ginter Park, is a true hidden gem. This neighborhood exudes charm, featuring mostly brick homes nestled along tranquil, tree-lined streets. Adding to its allure are the historic campuses of Union Presbyterian Seminary and Veritas School, which enhance the neighborhood’s appeal. Sherwood Park is bounded by Westwood Avenue to the north, Brook Road to the east, Interstates 64/95 to the south, and Hermitage Road to the west.

Sherwood Park, much like its Northside counterparts Ginter Park, Laburnum Park, and Bellevue, had its origins in the late 1800s as a streetcar community, thanks to the vision of the renowned Richmond businessman, Lewis Ginter. Ginter enlisted the services of the esteemed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., to design the neighborhood. Regrettably, circumstances changed, and other influences diluted Olmsted’s original vision before it could be fully realized. However, Ginter did make another significant and enduring decision that had a profound impact on both Sherwood Park and Ginter Park. He successfully persuaded Union Theological Seminary to relocate to the area by generously donating 11 acres of land for a new campus. Construction of the campus commenced in the mid-1890s, and today, it stands as a magnificent example of Tudor Revival architecture, representing one of Richmond’s most iconic historic properties.

Over time, Lewis Ginter’s attention shifted from Sherwood Park to Ginter Park as he recognized the growing interest of more affluent families in the Ginter Park development. Nevertheless, some lots in Sherwood Park were sold before 1900, but the residential development in this area did not truly kick off until the mid-1920s. It wasn’t until 1929 that the first home was completed, and the pace of development was further hindered by external factors like the Great Depression and the construction of the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike. Consequently, the majority of homes in Sherwood Park were constructed between 1930 and 1960.

With the resurgence of interest in city living in recent years and Northside gaining popularity among homebuyers, Sherwood Park is positioned for a revival. A brief drive through the neighborhood makes it clear—construction dumpsters and contractor trucks scattered throughout the blocks are indicative of the increasing investment in the area. Furthermore, the neighborhood benefits from the development of entertainment, retail, and commercial establishments in close proximity, such as The Boulevard corridor and Scott’s Addition, which have acted as significant catalysts for growth. Sherwood Park is on the brink of a promising renaissance.

Things to do and see nearby:

Union Presbyterian Seminary – It’s nice to have such a striking campus with such handsome architecture just a stone’s throw from home.

Lewis Ginter Recreation Association – A historic gem now a busy summer favorite for nearby residents.

Early Bird Biscuit Company – Tasty biscuits and pastries on Bellevue Avenue. Yes, please.

MacArthur Ave – The place to be in Northside. Several popular restaurants, a coffee shop, yoga studio, a small market and a wine shop draw many from both nearby residents and folks from other parts of the City.

Little House Green Grocery – Local, organic, natural and high quality food in small convenient (and green) package.

Flying Squirrels Baseball – The San Francisco Giants Double-A affiliate plays just blocks away at The Diamond.