Lamberts Point is a neighborhood that beckons with more than just its riverside views and proximity to downtown Norfolk. Its streets, parks, and landmarks tell a story that winds through centuries—one that connects the era of coal trains rolling to the piers with the close-knit, resilient community that calls this place home today.
The Origins: Why the Name “Lamberts Point”?
The story of Lamberts Point begins long before it became a hub of commerce and community. The area takes its name from a physical projection of land—"Point"—facing the Elizabeth River. The "Lambert" appellation, however, is widely credited to Thomas Lambert, who, during the mid-1600s, was granted land in the area by the colonial Virginia government. This became an important landmark by the time Norfolk County maps appeared in the 1700s, with "Lamberts Point" clearly identified along what’s now Hampton Boulevard.
For centuries, this part of Norfolk was mostly farmland, marsh, and undisturbed woodlands, with the occasional sailing vessel using the nearby Elizabeth River for transportation and trade.
The Railroad and the Rise of Coal: Lamberts Point’s Big Break
A defining moment in Lamberts Point’s history came in 1886, marking a leap from quiet groves to industrial importance. The Norfolk and Western Railway, seeking a coastal terminus for exporting West Virginia coal, selected Lamberts Point for its deep-water accessibility. The construction of a massive coal pier transformed the area overnight.
- The coal pier—still in use today—became the world’s largest coal transload facility, and rail lines began threading across the landscape.
- Hampton Boulevard, the area’s main north-south artery, was developed to connect the growing port to the rest of Norfolk.
- New streets like Bolling Avenue, Leckie Street, and Powhatan Avenue anchored the first houses for railroad workers and their families.
The influx of workers brought about a thriving, multicultural mix that’s still seen in the community’s spirit today.
Landmarks and Legacy: From University to Green Space
The industrial boom brought housing, churches, and community centers—many of which are still standing or serve as cornerstones for the neighborhood.
Notable Landmarks
- The Coal Pier: Still a critical part of Norfolk Southern’s operations, it’s not just an industrial feature—it’s a symbol of Lamberts Point’s origins and stamina.
- Lamberts Point Community Center (1251 W 42nd St): Once an elementary school and later renovated into a vibrant hub for fitness, sports, and after-school activities, this center is the heartbeat of local life.
- Old Dominion University (ODU): ODU’s presence on the eastern edge of the neighborhood, especially along Killam Avenue and 49th Street, has shaped Lamberts Point. The university’s expansion has brought new life, student housing, and events that draw residents and visitors alike.
- Lamberts Point Golf Course: Nestled right beside the Elizabeth River, it’s a favorite spot for locals looking to unwind with scenic views and fresh breezes.
Parks and Green Spaces
- Lamberts Point Park: On Mayflower Road, this riverfront space offers walking trails, playgrounds, and the best sunset views along the Elizabeth River. The park is a gathering spot for picnics, sports, and neighborhood celebrations.
- Owen Pickett Park: Another green gem, named for a prominent Virginia congressman, offers open fields and recreational facilities for families and athletes.
Community Through the Decades: Changing but Connected
Throughout the 20th century, Lamberts Point’s fortunes ebbed and flowed with industry. As the demand for coal fluctuated, so did the neighborhood’s economic fortunes. But the sense of community—bolstered by churches, civic associations, and annual events—remained strong.
- During the Civil Rights era, Lamberts Point was notable for its integrated schools and robust community activism.
- The late 20th century brought waves of change: as industry evolved and the larger Norfolk landscape shifted, many original residents’ descendants stayed, keeping neighborhood traditions alive while new faces—including ODU students and faculty—joined the mix.
Today, Lamberts Point is proud of its diversity. The old and new mingle easily, whether at a potluck at the community center, a game at the golf course, or simply on the stoops and porches lining Bowdens Ferry Road.
What Makes Lamberts Point Special Today
Ask any longtime resident, and you’ll hear stories about block parties on Colley Avenue or quiet mornings watching ships along the riverbank. The neighborhood is known for:
- Its accessible location: Just minutes from downtown and the lively Ghent district, but with a pace all its own.
- Walkable streets: Mature oaks line thoroughfares like Powhatan Avenue, providing welcome shade and a sense of rootedness.
- Cultural mix: Students, professors, railroad families, and newcomers from around the globe all find common ground here.
- The river: Always a constant backdrop—whether you’re casting a line into the Elizabeth or watching the coal trains head to the pier, the water shapes daily life.
Some of the old corner grocery stores may be gone, but Lamberts Point continues to welcome new small businesses, restaurants, and artists, infusing the area with energy as it respects its working-class roots.
The Future: Heritage Meets Hope
As Norfolk continues to grow and adapt to new challenges, from rising sea levels to revitalized urban centers, Lamberts Point offers a model of how a neighborhood can honor its past while embracing the future. Initiatives for preserving green space, improving transportation, and celebrating history ensure that Lamberts Point’s unique character endures.
Walk its streets, meet its people, and you’ll quickly discover: Lamberts Point is more than a historic neighborhood—it’s a living tapestry of Norfolk’s heritage, where coal, community, and the mighty river have shaped a place that’s always moving forward, together.