Can something be old and new at the same time? The new Manchester, VA is more than a decade into a dramatic transformation akin to New York’s Soho, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor or the Warehouse District of New Orleans. As with Richmond itself, an old city with a long history by American standards, the current Manchester transformation is happening on top of layers of history.
Formerly Manastoh, its name given by Native Americans, and nicknamed Dogtown, which dates back to years of fiscal difficulty, Manchester is now one of the fastest growing and most desirable neighborhoods in Richmond. In its more recent history, Manchester was Richmond’s largest warehouse district, accompanied by textile mills and other manufacturing. In recent years residential construction has replaced the industrial buildings, either via a historic preservation conversion (such as with Stockton Lofts), or after knockdown.
Hull Street is the main artery running through Manchester, with Mayo Bridge at its north end crossing into downtown Richmond – easy for walking or riding a bike to work. In the mornings, streams of commuters walk or ride cross Mayo Bridge to go to VCU Medical Center , Dominion Energy and state government, maybe stopping at Brewer’s Coffee or Café Zata on the way.
After work is when Manchester really shines. Richmond’s thriving craft brewery scene has its deepest roots in Manchester, with the Legend Brewing Company perhaps being the best known and first (it opened in 1994). And Basic City Beer is right next door. Hungry? Try Pig and Brew for great BBQ. Not a meat eater? Philly Vegan is two blocks away.
Things to do include visiting the Richmond Railroad Museum or reflectively walking the community’s African American “Slave Trail” which traces a path towards where slave ships once docked.
Stockton Lofts is designed to appeal to discerning residents who want a comfortable, modern apartment in an historic preservation building, with convenient access to Manchester’s charms, as well as work and play, in close proximity to I-95, I-64 and Richmond International Airport . Adapted from the fabrication operations of an adjacent textile mill, Stockton Lofts has the light and space of classic loft apartments along with modern amenities, plus roof hatches to access outdoor seating. A fun place to live in a fun place to live.
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