Nestled quietly in the western stretches of Richmond, Westlake Hills stands as a testament to resilience, community, and cherished local history. For generations, its tree-lined streets, mid-century homes, and welcoming parks have created a sense of belonging for newcomers and natives alike. But to truly appreciate what makes Westlake Hills special, we must journey through its origins, honor its milestones, and explore how it has evolved into the tight-knit neighborhood it is today.
Origins of Westlake Hills
The roots of Westlake Hills trace back to the early postwar era—a time when families across Richmond sought new beginnings in suburban landscapes without sacrificing proximity to the opportunities of the city. The land, once part of expansive farmland and rolling woods west of the James River, became ideal for development as Richmond expanded outward in the 1950s.
Developers, inspired by both the region’s rolling terrain and the small natural lake that once graced the area, coined the name “Westlake Hills.” The title reflects the neighborhood’s distinctive features: gently sloping hills, lush tree cover, and the western location relative to the city center. Early plat maps show initial development beginning along Westlake Avenue and Lakewood Drive, with winding streets designed to blend with the landscape rather than dominate it.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1950s-1960s: Suburban Growth
The first homes in Westlake Hills—a charming mix of red brick ranchers and split-levels—were constructed between 1952 and 1965. Returning veterans from World War II and the Korean War were among the earliest residents, many drawn by the promise of quiet streets and access to new schools. The neighborhood quickly developed a reputation for friendly neighbors who helped each other settle in.
- 1970s: A Community Takes Shape
By the early 1970s, Westlake Hills was bustling with young families, and local institutions began to form. Westlake Hills Civic Association launched in 1973, organizing block parties, yard sales, and neighborhood improvement projects. The association’s efforts preserved the area’s green spaces and planted the first flowering dogwoods along Crestwood Road—now a beloved sight every spring.
- 1980s-1990s: Modernization and Preservation
As Richmond’s population diversified, Westlake Hills welcomed new cultures and traditions. Residents rallied to preserve the Westlake Community Park (off Pebble Brook Road), ensuring generations would enjoy its playgrounds, ball fields, and wooded walking paths. A major milestone came in 1991, when the community worked with the city to protect the original Westlake Lake greenspace, a nod to the area’s natural beginnings.
- 2000s-Present: Rediscovery and Revitalization
Today, the neighborhood is experiencing a quiet renaissance. Longtime homeowners and newcomers renovate classic homes, maintaining their mid-century charm while updating interiors for modern living. The “Westlake Wednesdays” tradition—an informal gathering at the pocket park on Willow Glen Drive—reflects the spirit of connection that continues to define the neighborhood.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
Westlake Hills might not have the grand monuments of downtown, but it’s filled with treasured local landmarks and gathering places. Here are a few highlights:
- Westlake Community Park
A true gem, this community-maintained park features open fields, shaded benches, and a recently updated playground. It’s the site of the annual Spring Fling, a decades-long tradition where neighbors picnic, play games, and celebrate community milestones.
- Westlake Hills Elementary School
Located at the corner of Lakewood Drive and Crestwood Road, this school has educated generations of children. Known for its strong PTA and garden club, it anchors the neighborhood and hosts many community events.
- The “Old Stone House” on Hillcrest Way
One of the oldest structures in Westlake Hills, the Old Stone House predates formal development and is believed to have once served as a farmhouse outbuilding in the early 1900s. Local volunteers restored it in the 1980s, and it now hosts history nights and small gatherings.
- Crestwood Dogwoods
The dogwoods along Crestwood Road, first planted by the Civic Association, have grown into towering trees and are a living tribute to the neighborhood’s belief in nurturing community and the natural environment.
Streets, Parks, and Places You’ll Always Remember
Walking or driving through Westlake Hills, you’ll encounter memorable sights and sounds:
- Children laughing in the sprinklers at Westlake Community Park
- Neighbors waving from porches on Hillcrest Way and Willow Glen Drive
- The quiet, leafy serenity of Lakewood Drive in autumn
- Joggers winding along Pebble Brook Road, beneath canopies of oaks and maples
The area is uniquely shaped by the subtle hills that lend a sense of privacy and peace to its winding lanes. Nearby, established churches and the corner market on Westlake Avenue act as informal gathering spots, reinforcing the interconnectedness of daily life here.
Evolution and Enduring Spirit
While growth and change are constant in Richmond, Westlake Hills adapts with an eye to its cherished traditions. Residents, both old and new, share a determination to maintain the area’s friendly, welcoming spirit. Annual events, neighborhood clean-ups, and porch-to-porch conversations keep connections strong.
Alongside modernization—such as the addition of solar panels and energy-efficient upgrades—Westlake Hills remains committed to honoring its past. This balance between progress and preservation is perhaps what most distinguishes the neighborhood.
What makes Westlake Hills special? It’s the generations of stories told over back fences, the pride taken in shared gardens, the laughter that carries through the parks, and the steadfast belief that neighborhoods matter. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a new arrival, you’ll find a place to plant roots and grow.
Westlake Hills isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a living history, defined by its people and the legacy they continue to build, one welcoming doorstep at a time.