Berkley

Situated along the eastern branch of the Elizabeth River is Berkley, which stands as one of Norfolk's oldest and most historic communities characterized by its resilient community organizers.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Berkley was a bustling town until it was annexed by the city of Norfolk in 1906. Today, Berkley boasts the Berkley Historic District, a testament to its historical significance.

Berkley is filled with turn of 20th-century architecture and, in 2001, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some of the most notable structures are New Saint James AME Church and Antioch Baptist Church on Dinwiddle Street. When it comes to homes in Berkley, they are situated on long, narrow, tree-shaded rectangular lots with sidewalks. The northern section of Berkley boasts some of the most historic homes in the area, showcasing architectural styles like Queen Anne, American Four Square, Craftsman bungalows and brick-style ranch houses. Home prices range from as low as $175,000 for two-bedroom properties to around $300,000 for spacious four-bedroom houses.

Opening its doors in 1922, Blair Middle School was named after the founder of William & Mary, James Blair. The school offers the Blair Middle Specialty Program, a STEM-based learning strategy for students interested in prospective careers in medicine and science. Students at St. Helena Elementary School have been exercising their green thumb and learning about nutrition by implementing “tower gardens,” an aeroponic gardening system using air instead of soil. At Booker T. Washington High School, students can apply for the specialty program at the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts, which has partnerships with the Virginia Ballet Theatre and area universities.

Aside from its storied past, Berkley’s resilient community members are the star of the show. For 30 years, the Berkley Reunion has brought together community residents to celebrate the neighborhood's cultural heritage. The event features community-led prayer, carnival games, live music and fundraisers for youth scholarships. The Berkley Historical Society is dedicated to sharing oral and pictorial histories of Berkley through the establishment of the Berkley-Campostella Museum. This mobile exhibit can be seen at neighborhood events.

Two community centers serve the neighborhood, including the Southside Boys & Girls Club, established in 1971 by neighbors to foster a safer space for youth. Adjacent to the club, Berkley Park is a gated open green space where residents often gather for picnics and neighborly parties. Residents can practice their ollies at the skate park or play tennis at the Berkley Community Center, a hub for outdoor recreation, events and classes. The South Main Street and Craig Street Playgrounds serve as two pocket parks in the community with a small playground area.

When it comes to everyday conveniences, Berkley has you covered. The recently opened Berkley Supermarket, a locally owned grocery store, provides fresh produce and meats. Inside the market, residents can savor the offerings of Thee SoulFood Kitchen, a hidden gem serving up homemade plates of Southern delicacies like yams and mac and cheese. Sal’s Pizza is the go-to spot for takeout for those craving authentic New York-style pizza, and on a hot summer’s day, Pelican’s Snoballs of South Norfolk offers icy snow cones.

While history has played a significant role in Berkley’s development, today, Berkley maintains its mixed residential and industrial identity, with several shipyards dotting the neighborhood, including Colonna’s Shipyard and BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair. These industrial facilities provide employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy.

“The neighborhood provides older and affordable homes while still being in a convenient location to Downtown Norfolk and the shipyard,” says Andy Hubba, a Realtor with Exit Realty Professionals. The Berkley Bridge, a bascule bridge that spans the Elizabeth River, links the neighborhood to Downtown Norfolk for access to festivals, local eateries and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, the Downtown Tunnel provides easy access to Portsmouth, where charming shops and museums in Olde Towne await exploration.

Written By

Pao Cordero

Photography Contributed By

David Schwartz

Video By

Nathan Allen