5 Fun Facts About Chesapeake, VA: How Well Do You Know Your City? | Redfin

Chesapeake, VA, is more than just a city in Virginia – it’s a vibrant community with a rich history. From its picturesque landscapes, Chesapeake offers fun tidbits waiting to be discovered. In this Redfin article, we’ll take you through some interesting facts about Chesapeake that you’ll want to know.

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Quick Facts about Chesapeake

1. Chesapeake has more miles of deep-water canals than any other city

Chesapeake boasts the remarkable distinction of having more miles of deep-water canals than any other city in the nation. These extensive waterways not only provide scenic beauty but also serve as vital transportation arteries for both leisure and commerce.

2. Joinville, Brazil is the city’s sister city

Joinville, Brazil holds the esteemed title of being the sister city of Chesapeake. This international bond fosters cultural exchange and collaboration between the two cities, enriching the lives of residents on both sides of the globe. Through sister city programs such as student exchanges, Joinville and Chesapeake celebrate their shared values and heritage while embracing the diversity that connects them.

3. The significant Great Dismal Swamp

The Great Dismal Swamp, sprawling over an impressive 112,000 acres in Chesapeake, stands as a natural wonder within the city’s borders. This vast wilderness not only provides a habitat for diverse wildlife but also offers a recreational haven for outdoor lovers, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The swamp was also a significant place in American history as part of the Underground Railroad network.

4. The birthplace of many professional athletes

Chesapeake proudly holds the distinction of being the birthplace of numerous professional athletes, showcasing the city’s rich sporting heritage. Notable examples include basketball phenom Alonzo Mourning, a two-time NBA champion and Olympic gold medalist, and football star Kam Chancellor, a Super Bowl champion and four-time Pro Bowl selection.

5. Citizens selected the name “Chesapeake”

Citizens of Chesapeake played a pivotal role in selecting the city’s name. In 1962, when the cities of South Norfolk and Norfolk County merged to form a new entity, residents were invited to submit suggestions for the city’s name. After careful consideration, “Chesapeake” was chosen to honor the region’s abundant waterways and maritime heritage

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.

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