The History Center has been collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of Richmond, Virginia since 1894. The collection is the largest and finest collection of primary source material for researching and interpreting the history of Richmond.

With a focus on the history of Richmond, the museum houses a unique and spectacular collection of objects, papers, and textiles that document the city’s complex history. You'll be able to enjoy some items from the collection in our exhibits, but that's only the tip of the iceberg.

Portions of the collection are available online Online Collections Database.

[Above,] Suit worn by Elizabeth L. Nelson, [Retail Division] President of First Market Bank, to the 1997 branch bank openings. Ms. Nelson is Richmond’s third woman serving as bank president. [Donated to the History Center in 2006.]

Archives
If it's two-dimensional, it's in our archives. Wonderful old maps, theater tickets, journals and more are available for research and enjoyment. The Archives also houses the photograph collection which documents Richmond's people, places and events from the 1850s to the present.

General Collections
The "thises and thats" of Richmond's past and present. This collection totals over 900,000 objects and includes household items, fine art and industrial artifacts.

Costumes and Textiles
This collection is one of the largest of its kind in the South. Besides clothing, you'll find quilts, samplers and other household textiles.

Specialty Collections
The History Center is home to several comprehensive, significant collections, including African Americans in Richmond and the Tobacco Industry.

curator's corner
The History Center's curator highlights selected objects and images from the various collections.

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The Valentine History Center accepts many different types of objects and documents related to the history of the Richmond region for its permanent collection for use in exhibitions, educational programs, and research.

Accessing the Collections is by appointment only.  For hours, fees and available services, see Research. To access portions of the collections online, see Search the Online Collections Database.