The Tobacco Industry in Richmond From the early days of its settlement, Richmonders relied on tobacco as a staple crop and a means to accumulate land and wealth. Tobacco was a double-edged sword, however; it brought prosperity to the area, but harvesting this “noxious weed” required large numbers of laborers, including indentured servants and African slaves.

Even after the Civil War changed the work patterns of tobacco farmers, this leaf continued – and continues – to play a major part in Richmond's economy. Factories to process tobacco sprang up along the James River, which at first provided power as well as transportation. Gradually these family or partner-owned Tobacco Row factories were taken over by the American Tobacco Company Trust until antitrust action broke up the company. Many of these factories continue to provide a familiar look to Richmond's cityscape, and some have been converted to lofts, warehouses, and other uses.

The Red Cross
Thanks to the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross, the History Center is home to a spectacular Red Cross collection. Among the thousands of items are photographs, booklets, uniforms, hats, pins, dolls, papers and other items that document the history of one of Richmond’s most important service organizations.

Over 40 uniforms from various units of the Red Cross are under review, including those worn during World War I, World War II, and Vietnam, two-piece wool suits from the Motor Corps, overcoats, disaster services jumpsuits, and cotton dresses worn by nurses and volunteers. A lovely collection of dolls also showcases Red Cross uniforms. Other artifacts include Red Cross patches, pins, shoes, hats, purses, and Motor Corps hood ornaments.

Papers, photographs and documents cover Nursing Service, Civilian Defense, Blood Donor Service, Junior Red Cross, Motor Corps, Volunteers, Lifesaving and First Aid. The collection also includes artifacts documenting Richmonders’ service following September 11, 2001. The Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was organized in 1917 to serve the community during World War I. From their original work with servicemen and disabled veterans in hospitals, the group’s work has grown to include disaster preparedness and recovery, life safety, first aid, and community service.

African Americans In Richmond
Richmond's history encompasses the struggles and accomplishments of the city's African and African American residents as they shaped, reacted, resisted and revolted to the laws and cultural norms creating Richmond. The History Center's collections reflect that history, with a wealth of artifacts ranging from a slave's shackles to a photograph of the state's first African American governor.

Accessing the SPECIALTY Collections
Accessing the Specialty Collections is by appointment only. For hours, fees and available services, see Research.