The Virginia Museum of History & Culture is owned and operated by the Virginia Historical Society—a private, non-profit organization. The historical society is the oldest cultural organization in Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the nation. For use in its state history museum and its renowned research library, the historical society cares for a collection of nearly nine million items representing the ever-evolving story of Virginia.

Learn about 16,000 years of Virginia history through collections objects, historical articles, video, and our interactive timeline.

Learn about an array of topics in Virginia history through collections objects, historical articles, video, and our interactive timeline.

Since our founding as the Virginia Historical Society in 1831, we have been dedicated to preserving, sharing, and engaging with Virginia's history to inspire current and future generations. As a private institution with no government operating support, we rely entirely on charitable contributions from supporters like you. You know the value of our shared history - become a member to ensure our future.

Our mission is to connect people to America's past through the unparalleled story of Virginia. By collecting, preserving, and interpreting the Commonwealth's history, we link past with present and inspire future generations.