Richmond History Center Exhibitions

Permanent Exhibitions ı Changing Exhibitions ı Online Exhibitions

Exhibitions: Permanent

The Edward V. Valentine Sculpture Studio

You probably know his work even if you don't know his name. Edward Virginius Valentine (1838-1930) was a prominent sculptor whose works included the Recumbant Lee statue at Washington & Lee University, and the statue of Thomas Jefferson at the Jefferson Hotel. His studio is one of only four surviving 19th century sculpture studios in the United States that is open to the public. A visit to this restored studio offers a glimpse into the mind of the artist and into his times. Find out more.

Richmond History Center Exhibits

WICKHAM HOUSE AND COLLECTIONS

Guided tours of the Wickham House, a National Historic Landmark, allow guests to explore aspects of life in the early 19th century. The Wickham House was purchased by Mann Valentine Jr. and in 1898 became the first home of the Valentine Museum. In the public first-floor rooms, ornate decorations helped the Wickhams and their slaves present a picture of leisure and refinement. Exhibited on the second floor are artifacts from the descendants of the family that first inhabited the house

The self-guided Wickham House basement examines the slaves' private spheres. Find out more.

Richmond History Center Exhibits

SETTLEMENT TO STREETCAR SUBURBS: RICHMOND AND ITS PEOPLE

This exhibit surveys three centuries of Richmond's history, from the time of settlers who ventured up the James River to its 20th century emergence as a commercial and capital city. Biographies of prominent figures from Powhatan to Maggie Walker enhance this overview of the city's economic, political and social history. A timeline in the shape of a river highlights important events as it winds across the gallery floor. Find out more.

Richmond History Center Exhibits

Creating History: The Valentine Family and Museum

Looking beyond the authority of "experts," such as museums and professional historians, this exhibition illustrates how every person creates, through personal experience, his or her own usable history. The exhibition explores the Valentine family's collecting enterprises, Valentine's Meat Juice, and ways in which the History Center's interpretation of Richmond's history has evolved.

Signs of the Times

Vintage neon signs and photographs from Richmond businesses illustrate commercial growth and advertising trends, as do other artifacts mounted outdoors.

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