Good Morning, Hampton. 🌊

You’re reading The Hampton Current, your quick guide to what’s happening around town. Each issue highlights local news, upcoming events, business spotlights, and the hidden gems that make Hampton such a special place to live, work, and explore. 🌊

In this week’s issue:

🌲 Moon Tree Inspires Hampton Students

💧 Hampton U Leads River Project

🏈 Coach Blunt Takes New Role at NOVA

📅 Weekend Events: April 3–5

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Let’s get into it.

Which historic church in Hampton is one of the oldest African American congregations in the country?

A loblolly pine with an out-of-this-world history now calls Hampton, Virginia, home.

Why it matters: On March 18, students at Mary W. Jackson Fundamental Elementary planted an Artemis Moon Tree, grown from a seed that orbited the Moon on NASA's Artemis I in 2022.

The big picture: Principal Ernriekus Williams says the tree connects students to space exploration and STEM. It also honors the school's namesake, NASA's first Black female engineer.

The tree isn't just planted. It's a promise.

A university project is turning the Hampton River into a living classroom.

Why it matters: Hampton University's Marine and Environmental Science Department is building a living shoreline near its marina, using marsh grasses, oyster shells, and oyster reefs to fight erosion and boost water quality.

The big picture: Led by Dr. Deidre Gibson and partnering with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the project also gives students real, hands-on experience tackling coastal challenges driven by climate change.

Nature built the coast. Now, students are helping restore it.

The man behind four straight state titles is starting over somewhere new.

Why it matters: Jeremy Blunt, who led Phoebus High School to back-to-back-to-back-to-back Virginia state championships from 2021 to 2024, has accepted the head coaching job at Nova Lakes High School in St. Cloud, Florida.

The big picture: Nova Lakes opens in August and its football program will compete independently for two years before joining Florida's 7A classification. Phoebus now begins its search for new leadership.

A dynasty built. A new one beginning.

The Weekend Guide: April 3-5

Right by Buckroe Beach, this spot leans all the way into that laid-back coastal vibe. Nothing fancy, just good food, cold drinks, and a place you can actually relax for a minute.

💬 What people are saying: Folks love the consistency. Good portions, friendly staff, and that easygoing beach feel that keeps people coming back.

🍤 What to get: Seafood is the move here. Fried shrimp, crab cakes, and fish baskets are always solid. Wings and burgers hold their own too if you’re not in a seafood mood.

🍟 Don’t skip: The fries and hush puppies. Simple, but they hit every time.

🌊 Why it matters: Spots like this give Hampton that beach town feel. Nothing over the top, just a place where locals and visitors can kick back and enjoy it

If you’re near Buckroe and hungry… yeah, this is an easy choice.

A Step Back in Time at Robert’s Antiques

If you are wandering through the historic streets of Phoebus, it’s easy to get swept up in the modern energy of the new breweries and cideries. But for those who know where to look, the real magic of the neighborhood is tucked inside an 1874 brick building at 26 E. Mellen Street.

Robert’s Antiques isn’t just a store; it’s a living timeline of Hampton’s history. Originally the Kaiser Meat Market and later a hardware store and a beloved clothing shop (Mugler’s), the building itself is an artifact. Since 1969, the Sauer family has curated a collection here, making it a true "hidden gem" for locals and collectors alike.

First Baptist Church