It was here that the Virginia Convention of 1775 met to discuss the question of taking arms against the British. One of the oldest wooden buildings in Virginia, delegates to the Convention - including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Patrick Henry - had convened in this very spot. And it was here where Patrick Henry gave his famous speech and said the following famous lines: "Give me liberty or give me death!" Visitors can reenact this experience by watching the live performances offered by professional actors and further enrich their knowledge of history by visiting the city's first public cemetery.
In the 1880s, Lewis Ginter, a wealthy businessman, opened a resort on this land just northwest of Richmond. An avid gardener, he planted and cared for much of the foliage that still thrives in the park today. Upon his death, the property passed to his niece who opened a hospice for children in Ginter's home. She also cultivated the gardens and imported several rare plants. The land is now operated by the city as a botanical garden. Explore the Victorian garden, nature trails and the home, and perhaps stop at the Tea House for lunch.
For 150 years the Virginia Historical Society has been collecting portraits, manuscripts, and artifacts, such as books, bound serials, sheet music, the largest collection of Confederate-made weapons in the world and much more. Semi-permanent exhibits include, "The Story of Virginia, an American Experience" and "The Seasons of the Confederacy." During 2014, most of the exhibition places will be closed for renovations - however, the library, museum shop, and select programs are still available.
The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar chronicles the savagery of the 19th-century American Civil War through its exhibits and displays. Discussions and analysis of the cause, effect, and legacy of the civil war are held here. Audio-visual content documenting episodes of the war are also available to visitors. The center's fantastic location by the James River in the heart of Richmond makes it one of the most noticeable and visited spots. Rental spaces at the center are much sought after. The scenic riverside backdrop and the elegant interiors make it an ideal venue for weddings and bashes.
Built in 1726 as the home of Benjamin Harrison IV and his wife, this Georgian mansion features beautifully-landscaped grounds filled with magnificent gardens and terraces. A knowledgeable guide dressed in a period costume will lead you through the plantation itself, which is filled with valuable antiques and furniture. The tour also includes a visit to a museum of Civil War artifacts. Special group rates are available.
Built in 1790, this is the oldest brick house surviving in Richmond. For 45 years it was the home of the third Chief Justice of the United States, John Marshall. Restored as a museum, it contains original home furnishings and artifacts from Marshall's professional life. This a must-see for all history lovers.
Muggivan School of Irish Dance is spread across various locations in the country. Their branch located in Henrico, VA, provides traditional Irish dance lessons and is led by a team of award-winning of choreographers. They aim to promote the dance form and organizes summer camps and other outreach programs for the same.
It was here that the Virginia Convention of 1775 met to discuss the question of taking arms against the British. One of the oldest wooden buildings in Virginia, delegates to the Convention - including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Patrick Henry - had convened in this very spot. And it was here where Patrick Henry gave his famous speech and said the following famous lines: "Give me liberty or give me death!" Visitors can reenact this experience by watching the live performances offered by professional actors and further enrich their knowledge of history by visiting the city's first public cemetery.
One of the oldest homes in Virginia, this was a boyhood residence of Thomas Jefferson. Tuckahoe is the location of some of Richmond's eeriest hauntings. The most notorious is of a distressed young bride who rushes down a garden path called "The Ghost Walk" supposedly searching for her beloved. The surrounding gardens are a treat to the eyes, with lush green trees, hedges, lawns and colorful flowers making it a great photography zone. Guided tours of the house and its gardens are held daily, wherein visitors are taken through the history of the structure and its occupants.
Built in 1613, this is the oldest plantation in Virginia, and a National Historic Landmark. It has been carefully and very well-preserved, and features original woodwork and furnishings, as well as the only example of an original "Flying Staircase" that's left in the country. Amazingly, it is still in operation today. Visitors may come for a pre-planned tour seven days a week.
Built in 1726 as the home of Benjamin Harrison IV and his wife, this Georgian mansion features beautifully-landscaped grounds filled with magnificent gardens and terraces. A knowledgeable guide dressed in a period costume will lead you through the plantation itself, which is filled with valuable antiques and furniture. The tour also includes a visit to a museum of Civil War artifacts. Special group rates are available.