Virginia Museum of History & Culture Look Book 2026
Executive Team
President & CEO
Jamie O . Bosket
VP for Operations & CFO
David R . Kunnen
VP for Advancement
Anna E . Powers
VP for Collections, Exhibitions, & Research
Adam E . Scher
VP for Education & Engagement
Michael B . Plumb
VP for People & Culture
Paula C . Davis
VP for Marketing & Communications
Tracy D . Schneider
Virginia Historical Society Board of Trustees
Chair
Carlos M . Brown*
Vice Chair
J . Tracy Walker IV*
Honorary Vice Chairs
Austin Brockenbrough III
Harry F . Byrd III*
Nancy H . Gottwald
Conrad M . Hall
Thomas G . Slater, Jr . *
Regional Vice Chairs
William H . Fralin, Jr .
S usan S . Goode*
Gen . John P . Jumper*
Lisa R . Moore
Gerald F . Smith*
Board of Trustees
B . Marc Allen
Victor O . Cardwell
Herbert A . Claiborne III
William C . D avis
Melanie Trent De Schutter
Peter F . Farrell
Molly G . Hardie
Victoria D . H arker
Paul C . H arris
Rudene M . H aynes
C . N . Jenkins, Jr .
G en . Richard B . Myers
John R . Nelson, Jr . *
W illiam S . Peebles IV
J . Sargeant Reynolds, Jr .
Xavier R . Richardson
Pamela Kiecker Royall*
Robert D . Taylor
Alexander Y . Thomas
*Executive Committee
Our Mission
Connecting 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 .
Our Vision
We aspire to represent all Virginians as we meaningfully share the ever-evolving story of Virginia with a broader audience .
Our Values
We are dedicated to preserving the past, as we believe knowledge and appreciation of history matters .
We are trusted stewards, committed to telling an accurate and inclusive story of Virginia .
We work passionately and with integrity to best represent ourselves, our colleagues, our institutions, and our critical mission .
We are service oriented, and we are welcoming and respectful to all .
We operate as one team; we are clear about our goals, transparent, and collaborate for success .
We are purposeful; we are innovative and entrepreneurial in the advancement of our mission .
We embrace partnership, and we are a strong and active contributor to our community and Commonwealth .
Museum Snapshot
Established 1831
Collections More than 9 million artifacts (spanning 16,000 years)
Facilities Museum: ~250,000 square feet
Virginia House: ~10,000 square feet
Annual Visitation ~150,000 people
Staff ~100 people
media impressions
1.3M website visits
Give Me Liberty Member Preview
Virginia Journeys Travel Programs State of Museum MEMBER-ONLY EVENTS
Curator Tours
Virtual Curator Conversations 1831 Society Socials
Member Mondays at Virginia House
Spring Garden Party at Virginia House Holiday Reception at Virginia House
Madeira Tasting Lexington & Concord 250th
Virginia Eats: Farm to Table
Virginia Brews
PUBLICATIONS
Virginia Magazine of History & Biography
Virginia History & Culture Magazine
Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation
bestselling historians Patrick O’Donnell and Richard Brookhiser
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL PROGRAMS (A SAMPLING)
COLLABORATORS
1882 Foundation
Afro-American Historical and
Genealogical Society of Greater Richmond
Asian American Society of Central Virginia
Black Judaic Heritage Center
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Coming Together Virginia
Cristo Rey
Becoming Citizens Naturalization Ceremonies
First Fridays at the VMHC
(A Sampling)
Hear2Hear
Initiatives of Change
Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation
Links Incorporated
MCV Foundation
National History Academy
Radio Poder
ReEstablish Richmond
Richmond Public Library
Richmond Public Schools
Created Equal Film Series
Virginia History Day
Defiant Spirits Trick or Treat History Blooms
Conrad M. Hall Symposium for Virginia History
Richmond Region Tourism
Richmond Symphony
Shockoe Institute
University of Richmond
Virginia Association of Museums
Virginia Department of Historic Resources
Virginia Pride
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tribal Education Consortium
William & Mary
Annual Report–Fiscal Year 2025
As a private, non-profit institution, the VMHC relies on the generosity of members and donors to sustain operations . Despite being the state history museum, it does not receive government funds to support its operations .
*Includes FY2026 reserve funds. Based on FY2025 unaudited operating results. Intended only as an estimate for purposes of annual overview.
Introduction
Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), a private, non-profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States . The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far-reaching story of Virginia .
During its early years from 1831 to 1988, the Virginia Historical Society focused on growing a highly regarded collection of books, manuscripts, museum objects, and natural history specimens It invested in a robust publications program and became a beacon in the academic community and a hub for international scholarship in American and southern history .
In 1988, with the arrival of Dr . Charles F. Bryan, Jr . as President & CEO, the Historical Society remained committed to scholarship but also focused increasingly on public engagement . It embraced a broader vision, adding museum galleries, a strengthened endowment, increased public programs, and an education department .
In 2018, following the arrival of the current President & CEO, Jamie Bosket, the Virginia Historical Society announced a new vision and a new name—The Virginia Museum of History & Culture . This historic change ushered in a new era of expanded public programming, new exhibitions, and greater activity across the
Commonwealth—all focused on telling a broader story to an ever-growing audience .
In 2020, the VMHC began the most ambitious capital improvements project in its nearly 200-year history . When the building re-opened in May 2022, it had been completely reimagined!
This project resulted in:
• 50% more gallery space for long-term and changing exhibitions
• A new immersive orientation theater with a 15-minute introductory film
• A new interactive learning space for families
• An updated research library with a new rare book and manuscript suite
• A new education and community center
• A new café, an updated museum store, and other guest amenities
• New and renewed community and event spaces, including a new great hall, a secondfloor event terrace, an outdoor event lawn, and an expanded parking lot
With these improvements and increased capacity to reach, convene, and serve people from across the Commonwealth and beyond, the VMHC is better positioned than at any time in its long history to be the museum Virginia needs and Virginians deserve—a museum that welcomes and reflects all Virginians .
Collections
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture collections consist of more than nine million artifacts.
Manuscripts account for the largest portion of the collection, featuring a unique archive of family and personal papers, business records, and records of churches and other organizations .
The collection also consists of more than 200,000 published volumes, about 12,000 of which are designated as rare; 5,000 maps, both manuscript and printed; 1,400 titles of newspapers, both in hard copy and microform; about 3,000 Confederate imprints, mostly those produced on presses in Virginia; more than 4,000 broadsides; and more than 4,600 pieces of sheet music, primarily Virginia-themed .
VMHC also stewards a remarkable collection of decorative and fine arts, folk art, textiles, and firearms .
Collection Sampling
“Natural Bridge” by Flavius Joseph Fisher, 1882, Oil on canvas .
Tennis racquet and bag belonging to Arthur Ashe, late 20th c
Phyllis Galanti’s iconic blue dress worn on cover of Newsweek, second half 20th c
John Brown’s Bowie Knife taken at Harper’s Ferry in 1859 by J .E .B . Stuart, 19th c
Watercolor on paper .
George Washington’s diary, 1790-1791 .
A . D . Price’s 1918 Kline model 6-38 touring car; one of only two surviving vehicles made by Kline Motor Car Corporation in Virginia
“Pocahontas” by Robert Matthew Sully, 19th c . “Red Barns & Jump Mountain” by Pierre Daura, Mid 20th c .
Exhibitions
The VMHC tells stories of all Virginians—the people, places, and events that have made the Commonwealth what it is today.
The Story of Virginia and Our Commonwealth are the primary long-term exhibitions that give an overview of life in Virginia . The Story of Virginia provides visitors with a timeline journey through Virginia’s history from the Indigenous tribes who inhabited lands well before colonial settlers arrived to near-present day events Our Commonwealth immerses guests in the landscapes, foodways, industries, and people that make up this diverse state and give each region its unique character .
Special exhibitions rotate annually, providing a glimpse into a variety of topics—from vintage toys and outer space to regional cuisine and archaeology .
The VMHC extends its reach statewide by offering traveling exhibitions for use in schools, libraries, and community centers .
Long-term Exhibitions
History Matters
VMHC’s introductory gallery highlights objects from the collection that demonstrate why history matters . Themes include:
• History helps us discover ourselves. We learn who we are through stories of our families and communities
• History helps us connect with our communities. Traditions and shared experiences give meaning to the places we call home
• History motivates us to explore.
Examples of the past encourage us to be creative, drive innovation and forge new paths
• History inspires our future.
Understanding our past—its triumphs and its tragedies—provides insight to help us shape a better tomorrow
Our Commonwealth
The rich cultural overview of Our Commonwealth immerses visitors in the landscapes, foodways, industries and people that make up this diverse state . Scenic elements and large-scale, slowly changing digital projections called “living murals” frame the narrative footprint of each region to capture the unique essence of Virginians’ relationship with that place . Regionally inspired lighting treatments and soundscapes complete the effect of bringing guests into the “place” to experience the essence of each of the regions .
Treasures of Virginia
The objects in this gallery inspire awe, while also prompting reflection about what we treasure as individuals, as communities, and as a society . Artifacts rotate at regular intervals and include items like George Washington’s personal diary and a flight jacket worn by Tony Dowd while serving as a B-24 bomber tail gunner in China during World War II .
Landscapes of Virginia
The geography of Virginia has shaped the history of the state and the nation . This exhibition features artwork from the collection to show the ways in which geography plays a pivotal role in Virginia’s politics, society, and economy .
The Story of Virginia
This marquee exhibition interprets 16,000 years of Virginia history and features more than 500 artifacts, maps, letters, and diaries . Objects in the exhibition are supplemented by images from the VMHC’s collection, soundscapes, video, and digital interactives . From the earliest American Indian artifacts to life in the state at the beginning of the 21st century, visitors can learn about the cultural and historical transformations of the Commonwealth as they travel between galleries .
The Lost Cause: Myths, Monuments, and Murals
This important exhibition, which features a series of large painted murals and a statue of Robert E . Lee, discusses the history of the Lost Cause in Virginia and America .
Special Exhibitions
We the People: The World in Our Commonwealth
March 21, 2026–September 7, 2026
Continuing the story of America’s journey from Revolution to present, this exhibition explores the many people who, over centuries, have made Virginia the unique place it is in America and the world and the dramatic impact of the immigrant experience throughout Virginia’s history as people arrived from the four corners of the globe .
Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619–1865
Through July 4, 2027
This exhibition explores the lives of free Black Virginians from the arrival of the first captive Africans in 1619 to the abolition of slavery in 1865 . Through powerful objects and first-person accounts, visitors will discover how Virginia’s people of color achieved their freedom, established communities, and persevered within a legal system that recognized them as free but not equal .
Barbie: A Cultural Icon
October 17, 2026–January 18, 2027
This vibrant, multi-sensory experience celebrates one of the most iconic and influential figures in global popular culture . Drawn from the private collection of David Porcello and Mattel, the exhibition features more than 250 vintage dolls, immersive environments, original fashion designs, and exclusive designer interviews .
Mysteries
From The Deep: Exploring
Underwater Archaeology
March 20, 2027–September 6, 2027
Dive into the thrilling world of underwater archaeology in Mysteries from the Deep—an exhibition where cuttingedge technology, extraordinary discoveries, and human passion come together to tell the untold stories of our aquatic past .
Scholarship
The VMHC supports meaningful research and scholarship on Virginia history through fellowships, publications, and other programming.
Since its founding, the VMHC has supported the study of Virginia history through access to its remarkable collections . Its E . Claiborne Robins, Jr . Research Library welcomes thousands of researchers annually .
The VMHC has published the Virginia Magazine of History & Biography, its scholarly journal, quarterly since 1893 . The museum also publishes books based on exhibitions and other historical topics .
The VMHC also hosts dozens of lectures and related events annually .
Scholarship
Recent Publications
Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation
Give Me Liberty explores Virginia’s central role in the American Revolution . Iconic individuals like Washington, Jefferson, and Madison are revisited with new perspectives, and many others—caught up in extraordinary, Revolutionary events—are introduced for the first time .
Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619–1865
Un/Bound explores the lives of free people of color in Virginia, revealing under-told and often inspirational stories of Virginia’s past With contributions from leading scholars, this book highlights free Black people’s rich and varied experiences .
UPCOMING PUBLICATIONS
We the People: The World in Virginia
To be released in August 2026
Virginia History & Culture Magazine
Published three times per year, the museum’s member magazine includes articles on various historical topics, updates on programming and events, and spotlights on new acquisitions to the collections .
The Soldier’s Gaze: Picturing the Civil War
To be released in August 2027
Virginia Magazine of History & Biography
Established in 1893, the museum’s quarterly scholarly journal publishes articles and book reviews on Virginia and southern history .
Conrad M. Hall Scholar Series
The VMHC hosts esteemed historians and authors throughout the year to speak about recently released books on a variety of topics . The program is offered in person and by livestream .
Fellowships
The VMHC offers fellowships ranging from a week to a few months . These grants provide scholars from around the globe access to the vast library archive and the opportunity to unearth new research on a wide variety of topics .
Conrad M. Hall Symposium for Virginia History
The VMHC’s annual symposium brings together experts to present on specific themes . Open to the public, this day-long program appeals to academics and general history buffs alike .
Public Programs
Featuring award-winning speakers, tours, classes, and family activities, the VMHC has entertaining and educational programming for all ages and interests.
The VMHC is a leading provider of educational opportunities and resources for K-12 history and civics . VMHC stewards beloved statewide student programs like Virginia History Day, Civics Connects, and We the People .
Public Programs
Virginia History Day
Virginia History Day is the state affiliate of National History Day, a project-based learning program for students grades 4-12 . These interdisciplinary research projects help students develop historical thinking and literacy skills while making the study of history engaging, relevant, and most of all, fun!
We the People & Project Citizen VMHC is proud to host prominent civics education programs We the People and Project Citizen through its merger with Virginia Civics . We the People is a comprehensive curriculum that immerses students in the study of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, culminating in simulated congressional hearings that promote civic competence and responsibility . Project Citizen engages students in identifying and researching local public policy issues, developing solutions, and creating action plans to influence public policy, thereby promoting responsible participation in government .
Launched in 2024, Civics Connects™ is a first-of-itskind, comprehensive, classroom-ready resource for Virginia middle grade students . The program offers a robust array of best-in-class educational tools designed with significant input from Virginia educators at every level and includes lesson plans, interactive slides, classroom activities, and the opportunity to host onsite educators, engage with subject matter experts, and enjoy special museum experiences .
Learn more about VMHC’s growing civics education portfolio at VirginiaHistory.org/Civics
Citizenship Ceremonies
The VMHC hosts naturalization ceremonies three times per year, welcoming new citizens to the United States . President’s Day and Independence Day ceremonies are open to the public, and the Constitution Day ceremony is reserved for students .
First Fridays at the VMHC
On the first Friday of each month between 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm, the museum offers free admission to the galleries, specials in the Café, access to food trucks, live music, and family-centered activities .
Celebrations of Libations
The VMHC celebrates Virginia Beer, Spirits, and Wine months with festivals in August, September, and October . Guests sip history while hearing from local and regional purveyors .
The VMHC is marking the 250th with a dramatic investment in history and civics leading up to and throughout 2026—reaching millions of people.
VMHC’s 250th Initiative is one of the most robust portfolios of commemorative activities produced by any museum in the nation . The VMHC began convening history organizations across Virginia for 250th planning in 2017, then instigated the establishment of Virginia’s 250th Commission (and is designated by law as an official partner of the Commonwealth) .
In 2023, the VMHC encouraged national planning and progress by collaborating with Colonial Williamsburg to host the largest 250th planning summit A similar gathering was co-hosted by the VMHC in 2024 and 2025—helping shape the national trajectory of the semiquincentennial .
America’s 250th Anniversary
Legacy Projects
The Commonwealth Prize™
Established as a legacy initiative of VMHC’s commemoration of America’s 250th, The Commonwealth Prize is the highest honor bestowed by the museum . It honors exemplary patriotic service or extraordinary and lasting contributions to the history and culture of Virginia
Virginia History Affiliates™
This new statewide program brings local and regional history organizations together via a new network for collaboration . It will deepen shared values, facilitate shared progress, and empower Virginia’s museums to thrive through access to new programming, traveling exhibitions, and grant funding .
Civic Spaces
Capital improvements to the VMHC’s Robins Family Forum and Weinstein Learning Center provide stunning new spaces to expand VMHC’s civic engagement and education activities .
Outreach & Engagement
Virginia 250 Passport™
The Virginia 250 Passport is a commemorative booklet that highlights 70 history sites across the Commonwealth of Virginia . Program participants receive discounts on admission at select Passport Sites and have opportunities to win prizes The Virginia 250 Passport was created in collaboration between the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Colonial Williamsburg, JamestownYorktown Foundation, Monticello, and Mount Vernon .
Revolution Revisited
This multi-season podcast examines the origins and impacts of the American Revolution .
Virginia Explorer
This virtual tour of Virginia sites related to American Independence features 360-degree views and interactive features .
Signature Programming
Richmond SailFest
June 12–June 14, 2026
The City of Richmond and the VMHC are proud to partner in hosting Richmond SailFest, a Sail VirginiaSM 2026 Affiliate Harbor . Richmond will host several impressive tall ships along with dockside entertainment and concessions .
IllumiNATION
June 25–June 28, 2026
A breathtaking video art projection that brings the American story to life against the museum’s historic façade .
250th Lecture Series
July 2023–December 2026
This special series will bring to the VMHC some of America’s foremost Founding Era experts .
Commemorative Exhibitions
Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation
March 22, 2025–January 4, 2026
National Speech & Debate Tournament
June 2026
VMHC will be the primary culture partner for this national student competition in Richmond .
We the People: The World in Our Commonwealth March 21, 2026–September 7, 2026
Traveling versions of both exhibitions are available to history museums, historical societies, libraries, and community centers across the Commonwealth . VMHC will also release companion books .
