NEXT MEETING

Thursday, February 5 • 8:30 - 9:30 am

Ohef Sholom Temple

530 Raleigh Avenue, Norfolk

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History of Ghent

Ghent originated around 1890 on farmland outside of Norfolk that was originally called Pleasant Point. Most of its development was thanks to two Dutchmen, which is why so much of it resembles waterside towns in South Holland. The name of one of Ghent’s most obvious landmarks, The Hague, clearly draws from their heritage as well.

By the 1920’s, the layout of what is now considered Ghent’s main neighborhood was complete, and it hasn’t changed shape much in the time since. The first homes went up along The Hague, attracting middle- and upper-class populations with their prominent 19th century craftsmanship, and those homes still stand today. Though they began to deteriorate over the years, they have since been restored and strengthened so they can be appreciated for many generations to come.

In the early years, Ghent enjoyed a half-century stretch of economic success as the area became increasingly popular, but during World War II, local leaders built temporary war housing there, which then became boarding houses afterwards. This change led to increasing problems, most notably in East Ghent, which at one point was referred to as “the slums” by the mayor at the time. Ghent continued to struggle well into the 70s and early 80s as an economic downturn battered the area, but in its signature fashion this remarkable city refused to stay down, and revival began with ample amounts of gentrification. In 1980, Ghent Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has remained there ever since.

Today Ghent stands as a shining example of economic, artistic, and societal diversity. Even in an area as robust as Hampton Roads, Ghent stands out as a unique gem unlike any other neighborhood in the area—and even quite unlike most neighborhoods in the country.