In addition to farming, a gristmill and broad-crested weir on Muddy Creek comprised the principal economic activity.

In addition to the mill, there are several other structures of historical interest dating from the 18th and 19th centuries: the miller's residence; a farmhouse; barns; assorted outbuildings; a post office; and Tamworth Cottage.

[3] The post office building (constructed 1792 [4]) also functioned as a general store and has been unused since the late 1980s when it was closed by the US Postal Service.

Situated in the Virginia Piedmont in the northeast end of Cumberland County, Tamworth is drained by Muddy Creek, a tributary of the James River.

[7] An elevation reference marker is located at the northwest corner of the junction of state routes 684 and 659 (Tamworth Road), stamped "113 CA 1957 195".