History Matters Campaign

History Matters Campaign

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A photo of cheering crowds in front of the museum. White text overlaid on the image reads: History Matters Campaign - The Story of Virginia for All Virginians

CAMPAIGN CABINET MEMBERS

Co-Chairs
Austin Brockenbrough III
Aggie & Richard Cullen
Pamela Keicker Royall 

Members
Charles L. Cabell
Peter F. Farrell
William H. Fralin, Jr.
Susan S. Goode
John R. Nelson, Jr.
Thomas G. Slater, Jr.

History Matters – now more than ever. History provides perspective and fosters empathy, and when told fully, thoughtfully, and truthfully, it can inspire a better tomorrow.

Our Moment

After a comprehensive planning process and new strategic plan unanimously adopted by the museum’s Board of Trustees, the VMHC is prepared to enter its third century of work on behalf of the Commonwealth after completing, in Spring 2022, the most transformative and far-reaching renovation and reimagination in its history. The VMHC is dedicated to being the state history museum that Virginia needs, and Virginians deserve.  

With the generous support of individuals, foundations, and corporations, as part of the History Matters Campaign, the VMHC invested more than $30 million in renovating its headquarters complex. It also invested more than $10M in programmatic funds and mission-related endowment.

As one of only three state history museums in the nation that does not receive state operating support, the VMHC succeeds with the thoughtful support of its vast membership and history lovers everywhere!

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Renderings of the new Great Hall, Research Library, and Welcome Gallery

Our Reimagination
With focus on creating a best-in-class guest experience that is more welcoming and reflective of all Virginians, this comprehensive renovation features:

  • More spaces and galleries for long-term and changing exhibitions
  • A new immersive orientation theater
  • A new interactive learning space for families
  • A renovated research library with a new state-of-the-art rare book and manuscript suite
  • A new education, conference, and community center
  • A new café and museum store
  • New and renewed community and event spaces, including a new great hall, a second-floor event terrace, an outdoor event lawn, an expanded parking lot, and an improved VMFA campus connector

We encourage you to join us in our mission by planning a visit, becoming a member, and/or making a donation. At the VMHC, you can find your story, ignite your passion for Virginia, and deepen your understanding of today’s most pressing issues by drawing upon the wisdom of the past.
 

PLAN YOUR VISIT   BECOME A MEMBER   Donate Now

See an Overview of our Extensive Renovation and Expansion:

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The complete redesign to the main entrance of the museum features a second-floor event terrace, new meeting rooms, a prominent guest entrance, vehicle drop-off and new green space/event place.
A Redesigned Main Entrance

The complete redesign to the main entrance of the museum features a second-floor event terrace, new meeting rooms, a prominent guest entrance, vehicle drop-off and new green space/event place. 

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A Dramatic New Great Hall & Event Space (view looking towards guest entrance)
A Dramatic New Great Hall & Event Space

A new Great Hall provides a grand space for museum activities and access to new guest amenities, including a new gift shop and café (view looking towards guest entrance).

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A rendering of an immersive orientation theater with a large wrapped screen
New Immersive Orientation Theater

A new immersive orientation theater will welcome guests and provide an introduction to the unparalleled story of Virginia.

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New Visitor-Centered Entrance to Museum Galleries
New Visitor-Centered Entrance to Museum Galleries

A new visitor-centered entry to museum galleries, with a similar look and feel extended throughout the galleries, will provide more welcoming spaces for guests to engage with Virginia history.

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New Halsey Family Hall
New Halsey Family Hall

This renovated lecture hall will be home for large meetings and events at the museum, including rental opportunities for seated dinners, meetings, receptions, and community gatherings.

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New Library Reading Room
New Library Reading Room

A new home for Virginia history research, the renovated library reading room will provide access to a new Rare Book & Manuscript Suite as well as a new publications office.

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New Rare Book & Manuscript Suite and Study Room
New Rare Book & Manuscript Suite and Study Room

A state-of-the-art rare book & manuscript vault and study room will have specially designed security and fire protection.

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New Café and Community Gathering Place
New Café and Community Gathering Place

A new café and community gathering place will provide an important new amenity for museum guests. The café will feature indoor and outdoor seating.

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A rendering of a meeting room with tables and chairs arranged in a square in the center of a windowed room.
New Multipurpose Education Rooms

Four new multipurpose education rooms will be appointed with state-of-the-art technology.