Cumberland Estate

Cumberland: A Historical Legacy

Cumberland has been a significant fixture of Virginia’s history since the 17th century. In recent years, this landmark site has had new life breathed into it as a result of its acquisition by Criss Cross Properties, LLC.
Criss Cross Properties was founded by John B. Poindexter, an entrepreneur and restorationist whose ancestry is deep-rooted in the New Kent area. “Criss Cross,” which signified Christ’s cross in that era, was the name of his family’s first home in Colonial Virginia in the late 1600s.
Although Mr. Poindexter resides in Texas, he considers New Kent his second home because of his rich family heritage in the area. Inspired by his love for history and a strong desire to preserve it, he began a property acquisition and restoration program in 2013. As part of the program, Mr. Poindexter acquired 3,423 acres of rural property clustered around the authentic Criss Cross home. That acreage encompassed part of the original family settlement, including the grounds of Cumberland.
Disrepair and land degradation plagued most of the individual properties when they were purchased. Today, thanks to the guidance of local craftsmen and talented advisors, the estate has been revitalized to an impressive semblance of its original condition — with modern conveniences. Likewise, the surrounding lands are once again thriving as farms and managed forests that maintain the character of the colonial era.

Origins: The Poindexter Family and Criss Cross

George Poindexter was the founding immigrant of a prominent family long established on the Isle of Jersey — a British island off the coast of Normandy, France. Shortly after arrival in America in the 1650s, George settled in what is now known as Williamsburg. In the 1680s, he and his wife, Susannah, moved to New Kent County, where they established a substantial landholding.
Following George’s death in 1691, Susannah continued to live on the Criss Cross until her death two years later. Their son, George II, succeeded her, and the property remained in the Poindexter family until 1830. In 1953, more than a century later, the home was acquired by Ed and Gayla Harrison, who partially restored the property. In 1973, the U.S. Department of the Interior approved their application to have Criss Cross placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Due to his strong familial roots in the New Kent area, Mr. Poindexter began a property acquisition and restoration program in 2013. Within a few years, these efforts led to the acquisition of a series of individual properties, all of which are concentrated within a three-mile radius and many of which are physically connected.
Most of the old Criss Cross’s original acreage composes a large majority of the contemporary Criss Cross Properties holdings.
Cumberland owns some 3,200 acres of agricultural and forest lands in the immediate vicinity of Criss Cross and Cumberland, all in central New Kent County. Cumberland’s and its corporate parents’ objectives are to acquire and restore historical residences in the county and to accumulate and improve the adjoining acreage.
Criss Cross Properties is now full of life and vitality, and expects that new memories will be created and cherished by all who visit. White-board fences mark the commodious grounds that, together with the adjacent Cumberland Nature Reserve, reconstitute the centuries-old estate.
The traditional residence has been meticulously restored and furnished with period pieces and art to complement its splendid and eventful past. Cumberland Estate is an exceptional destination for anyone seeking a taste of the rich history of the South.

The Accommodations

At Cumberland, you have the option of booking the houses individually or all of them together for larger groups.
The Carriage House-
Adjacent to Cumberland House, the Carriage House overlooks the grounds and the Pamunkey River. In addition to its spectacular views, the property offers three newly remodeled bedrooms with attached bathrooms, an upstairs meeting space perfect for business conferences, downstairs exercise area, laundry room, plus a private pool. The property also features a kitchenette, which includes a cooktop, refrigerator, oven and microwave.
Cedar Lane House-
On a hilltop overlooking 440 green acres, this charming home has undergone a far-reaching historical restoration. The original structure is composed of two wooden stories featuring two landings built upon a large brick lower-ground floor featuring crude, hand-hewn beams. Cedar Lane has four bedrooms and five beds – all with in-suite bathrooms. The large kitchen is equipped with dual ranges and ample refrigeration.
Moss Side Manor-
Get a rare glimpse into life in the 19th century when you stay at Moss Side Manor. Listed in the National Register of Historical Places, this beautifully appointed home includes two bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, hardwood, oriental rugs, gas fireplaces and period furniture for a truly authentic experience. To reflect its original construction, the remodeled, modernized kitchen and dining room are separate from the main house
Moss Side Cottage-
This renovated single story, three bedroom, three bathroom cottage is the perfect weekend getaway for a family or group of friends looking to enjoy peaceful surroundings and the beauty of nature, together. Moss Side Cottage features a large, modern kitchen, spacious family room, relaxing furniture and historical décor, along with a two-car attached garage and rear deck overlooking a private meadow (with tables, chairs and a gas grill).

The Cumberland Experience

Cumberland offers a variety of wing-shooting activities, including duck hunts on the banks of the Pamunkey River, quail hunts with well-trained bird dogs and spring turkey hunting. Our 5,000 acres of woodlands, managed gamed habitat and agricultural fields provide a diverse range of habitats and varying difficulty levels.
Be our guest for an overnight stay in one of our well-appointed, historic homes. Enjoy some southern hospitality and locally sourced meals from our private chef.
Weddings - Rich with history, charm and the enchantment of nature, Cumberland Estate turns your special day into reality and serves as an unforgettable setting for any ceremony and reception. Experience old world elegance with new world refinement as you begin the next chapter of your story together surrounded by lush landscapes and landmark homes.
From serene, riverfront weddings to an old, antebellum-style farm weddings, Cumberland ceremonies come in many shapes and styles. Whether hosting 250 guests or only 25, we have the perfect venue for your needs.
Executive Retreats - The Cumberland Estate conference room is located right above our beautiful, three-bedroom Carriage House, which overlooks the Pamunkey River.
Meeting space comes equipped with a 12-seat conference table and additional, six-person seating area. If extra tables and seating are required, additional space can be allocated. Our conference room also includes a projector, two screens, conference phone and complimentary and secure Wi-Fi.