Virginia is positively brimming with historic homes. If you've ever toured one, you may have noticed that the porch ceiling was painted a very faint shade of light blue, also known as Haint blue. In fact, this is actually quite common with historic homes throughout the South. The reason is somewhat surprising and quite intriguing! Continue reading to learn the answer to the question: "Why are porches in Virginia painted blue?"
Front porches are always a welcome addition to homes, especially historic ones. If you've visited several of these throughout Virginia, you've likely noticed that many of them seem to have one thing in common: the ceilings are painted light blue!
The shade is known as Haint blue, which is a collection of pale shades of blue-green.
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You might assume the porch ceilings are painted this shade because it's reminiscent of a clear blue sky. Others have guessed that the color might ward off bugs or bees.
The real reason, however, is to ward off ghosts. It's a tradition that began with the Gullah-Geechee people in Georgia and South Carolina, who believed that the shade of blue would mimic water, which ghosts could not pass through.
In addition to painting their ceilings, the Gullah-Geechee people would also paint doors, window frames, and shutters blue.
The Gullah-Geechee were enslaved peoples, and therefore many of their beliefs were adopted by white southern culture, where the tradition of painting porch ceilings blue has become a common custom.
The next time you are touring a historic home in Richmond or another location in the south, see if you notice the distinctive light blue color of the porch ceilings.
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Did you know the reason Virginia porch ceilings are painted light blue? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! For related content, check out our list of the most terrifying, haunted places in Virginia.
Looking for even more to explore? Take a look at this fascinating 60-second tour of Shenandoah National Park:
Living in Virginia means something different to each resident. And yet there are plenty of things that unite us all: our love of nature, our fondness for the mountains and beach, our appreciation for history, and our knowledge of where to find the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in every city. With that in mind, we've compiled a collection of photos that we think perfectly summarizes what it's like to live here. See how many of these images resonate with you!
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1. The Blue Ridge Mountains
Ah, the mountains. Don't you feel calmer just seeing this vista? Virginia is home to the famous Blue Ridge Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Mountain chain. These are some of the oldest mountains in the world, and they promise adventure to anyone who sees them.
2. A welcome sign
Is it just us, or is the "Welcome to Virginia" sign one of the best sights in the world? It's home sweet home, and a sight for sore eyes if you've been driving for a while.
3. Crabpots
Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay help support the region's commercial fisheries. In fact, annual revenue from crabbing has been valued between $22 million to $38 million annually! Here in Virginia, we are grateful for both the Chesapeake Bay and the incredible wildlife it supports. Learn more about blue crabs and supporting the Bay's wildlife when you visit the Chesapeake Bay Foundation online.
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4. King Neptune
Towering 26 feet tall above the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the King Neptune Statue is an iconic Virginia sight. The statue is the work of Paul DiPasquale, and it was dedicated to the City of Virginia Beach on September 30, 2005.
5. Apple orchards
Farmlands, orchards, vineyards -- we grow a lot here in Virginia! We're proud of our incredible produce. What would living in Virginia be without hardworking farmers? Or apple cider donuts? Or local Virginia wine?
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6. The Chincoteague Pony Swim
Hosted by the Chincoteague Fire Department, the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim is a celebrated event where the ponies are rounded up by a group known as the Saltwater Cowboys, who usher them across Assateague Channel to Veteran's Memorial Park. Each year, the July event draws tens of thousands of spectators from around the globe!
7. Historical markers
If you weren't already convinced of Virginia's lengthy history, the fact that 2,900 historical markers exist throughout the state is evidence enough. Virginia's history is vast, complicated, brutal, and inspiring, and these markers help us remember these vital chapters in our state's history. Photographed above is the Emancipation Oak Historical Marker in Hampton.
8. The Richmond skyline viewed across the James River
It doesn't get much more iconic than the view of the downtown Richmond skyline as seen across the mighty James River.
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9. Mount Vernon
Home of the first U.S. President, Mount Vernon is steeped in history. It's a sight, along with similar estates such as Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, that most Virginians have seen at least once.
10. Hiking the A.T.
Virginia is home to more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state! Taking a day hike or tackling a portion of the A.T. is a common pastime among Virginia hikers.
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11. Paddling on the river
Virginia has so many rivers and waterways that you could easily devote an entire lifetime to paddling them all! Nearly every Virginian has experienced some time on the river, no matter which river you happen to call home.
12. Playing in the snow
Compared to other states, we don't get a ton of snow here in Virginia, so when it does snow, you can bet that we're outside playing in it! Sledding down a hill, having a snowball fight, there's nothing quite like a snow day here in Virginia.
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13. A simmering pot of Brunswick stew on a fall day
Brunswick stew is a pride and joy of Virginia's culinary scene, dating back hundreds of years. There's some dispute over whether this dish originated in Georgia or Virginia -- but I think you can guess where we stand on the issue!
14. An impromptu performance
Music is an integral part of Virginia's history and culture. This feels especially true in southwest Virginia, where traditions like the Friday Night Jamboree in Floyd invite visitors and travelers alike to participate in song and dance.
15. Eateries that have stood the test of time
It's not uncommon to stop by a hole-in-the-wall in Virginia that's been around for decades. That's because the food is *that* good. Almost every major city - and small town - in Virginia has a handful of these locally-run establishments that have stood the test of time. Who needs fast food when you have incredible offerings like this? Photographed above is the Blue & White Carryout in Alexandria.
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16. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel
You know you're in for quite an adventure when you take the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Measuring over 17 miles, this Chesapeake Bay crossing is nothing short of an engineering marvel.
17. Route 11 Potato Chips
Made right here in Virginia along the famous Route 11, these potato chips are the absolute best! Have you toured the Route 11 potato chip factory?
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How many of these photos seemed familiar to you? Are there any images you would add that summarize living in Virginia? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below! Did some of these places seem new? If so, maybe it's time for a road trip! Check out our essential road trip packing list for more inspiration.
Looking for related content? Check out these jokes about life in Virginia:
If you're looking for reasons to live in Virginia, you'll discover a TON. I know why I love Virginia, but that’s because I’m lucky enough to live here. So this one’s for the rest of you: those who are looking for reasons to move to Virginia, but aren’t sure. Or maybe you’re in Virginia, but your best friend lives in Connecticut. Better yet, your parents have retired, and you could use some babysitters - I mean, family - close by. Whoever you are, if any of these apply to you, or someone you know, then it's time to call the moving trucks.
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1. You love all 4 seasons.
Winters are cold, sure. But the snow is pretty and it’s rarely too much – this isn’t Boston, after all. Summers are hot – that’s why we have so many amazing lakes, beaches, and rivers. But you can have hot or cold anywhere. In Virginia, it’s spring and fall that make all it all worthwhile.
2. You want to be at the heart of it all.
Virginia is within a day’s drive of 50 percent of the U.S. population. So, "but I’ll never see my old friends" is simply not an excuse! You'll never lack for day trips in Virginia.
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3. You love the mountains.
You can reach some of the most beautiful mountains in the world within just a few hours from anywhere in Virginia. Here's a peek at just some of the most beautiful mountains in Virginia.Shenandoah National Park is one of our favorite places to enjoy Virginia's mountains - take a look:
4. But you also love the beach.
Same goes for the beach. We have some of the most amazing beaches anywhere and they’re all within a short drive, no matter where you live in the state. If you're asking what is good about Virginia? Here's your answer: Virginia's beaches.
5. You appreciate a good economy.
The Washington Post calls Virginia "the best state in America" when it comes to managing budget shortfalls. We’ve managed to keep the economy on an even keel even when the rest of the world seems to be in a spin.
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6. You want the best schools for your undergrads.
Virginia has three of the top 40 public colleges and universities in the nation: University of Virginia, College of William and Mary, and Virginia Tech. But that’s saying nothing of all the other amazing schools – you can’t go wrong with a Virginia education.
7. And your under-undergrads.
For your pre-college crew, rest assured that good schools abound. Wallethub, an online financial site, ranks Virginia K-12 schools as some of the best in the nation.
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8. You’re looking for a great place to retire.
Maybe it’s time to be closer to the grandkids or Florida just got too hot. Virginia is the perfect place to land when you’re ready to put your feet up. Forbes named Blacksburg one of its top places to retire in the nation thanks to a cost of living, low crime, and good housing. Williamsburg tops the U.S. News and World Reports list for historic places to retire.
9. You’re an entrepreneur.
Forbes has ranked Virginia as one of the best places for business. For you big business moguls out there, 23 Fortune 500 companies are headquartered here.
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10. You consider shopping a valid form of exercise.
Whether you’re looking for high-fashion shopping or just a day out antiquing, Virginia has some of the best finds on the East Coast.
11. Or you take your exercise very seriously…most of the time.
For those of you with a competitive streak, Virginia hosts races of every kind – from marathons and triathlons to dress-crazy-and-jump-in the mud obstacle races. There’s something for everyone and no shortage of people to get out there and train with you.
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12. Wine and cheese are two of your favorite food groups.
The West Coast is nice, don’t get me wrong. But Virginia wine country is beyond compare. Our award-winning wines, 230+ vineyards, and incredible countryside can’t be beat. Have some cheese with that wine – we have hundreds of locally made-in-Virginia cheeses available at farmers’ markets, specialty shops, and nationwide chain grocers. The only hard part will be choosing your favorite. Which Virginia winery will you visit first?
13. You just like food in general. There’s down-home country cookin’ or fine dining within reach in just about every part of the state.
We have some of the best BBQ, biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and country ham you’ll ever have the pleasure of eating. Or try one of Virginia’s many fine-dining restaurants. Our gourmet cuisine has hit the nation’s best restaurant lists more than once – and that’s up against the likes of New York and San Francisco.
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14. You don’t just like festivals. You love them.
Whether you’re looking for big-city food and culture or small town celebrations, there’s a festival in just about every part of the state on any given weekend.
15. Run with the big dogs or get off the grid – your choice.
If you want the fast track, big city life, you can have it. Northern Virginia is one of the nation’s top job growth areas and offers limitless options. But if you want a quieter speed, then take your pick of beautiful small towns where life is slower, but every bit as rich.
16. You don’t want to get sick, but if you do…we have world-class healthcare.
Our hospitals are nationally ranked for care, including specialties like cardiology (Sentara Norfolk General) and neonatology (Inova Fairfax).
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17. You like things that go fast. We make our horses fast and our cars faster.
Virginia horse country is not to be messed with. If you love horses, we have steeplechase, polo, and countless horse shows and competitions. If NASCAR is your thing, we have the Martinsville Speedway, Richmond International Raceway, and Bristol Motor Speedway. For Formula 1 and stock car racing, Virginia International Raceway in Alton and the Virginia Motor Speedway in Jamaica, Virginia, fit the bill.
18. You support the troops.
Men and women in uniform are part of the fabric of Virginia. We were founded on a proud tradition of protecting our beliefs and today, Virginia has more than 20 military bases representing all four branches of the armed services, plus a strong National Guard presence.
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19. Music makes you happy.
Bristol, Virginia is called the birthplace of country music for a reason. This is where some of the first commercial recordings were made with artists like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family. We’ve taken it from there and now Virginia has a diverse and eclectic music scene with festivals for almost any genre, plus large commercial venues, small clubs, and everything in between.
20. You can just be you.
Virginia is for lovers - and that means no matter who you are, what you love, or how you choose to live your life, Virginia has a niche where you can belong.
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What do think are some of the best reasons to move to Virginia? If someone asked, what would tell them are the top reasons to live in Virginia? Let us know in the comments! Then take a peek at the 15 best places to live in Virginia. Once you're settled in, you can show off your state pride by wearing your roots for all to see!