Virginia Historical Society

Founded in 1831, the Virginia Historical Society is the oldest state historical society still in operation in the South, and one of the oldest in the nation. It was headquartered at several other Richmond locations before moving here in 1959. The Society’s extensive collections of manuscripts, rare books, artwork, photographs, and other artifacts form the basis for a research library and museum, as well as publications, lectures, and other public education programs. In 2018 the Society announced a new vision and a new name for its headquarters facility, The Virginia Museum of History & Culture, marking an era of expanded programming, exhibitions, and activity across the commonwealth.