The Virginia Holocaust Museum was founded in 1997 by Al Rosenbaum, Mark Fetter, and Jay Ipson, one of Richmond's youngest Holocaust survivors. The museum's mission is to educate others on the Holocaust and the terror of genocide. Visitors are led throughout the museum by painted train tracks to not only learn about the holocaust as a whole, but also the personal account of the Ipson family and their ordeal. In addition, you will learn about other survivors who have settled in Richmond. Engage in the films, guided tours, programs, and lectures that are provided. Note: due to the certain graphic nature of select content, this might not be the best place for young children. Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated.
The Chimborazo Medical Museum, a 20th century building, is located in the city of Richmond, where multitudes of Confederate soldiers came to recuperate after being wounded from the Civil War. Because of the thousands with need, Southerners rallied for the construction of five general hospitals, with Chimborazo being the biggest. Come and see with your very own eyes, the equipment used by doctors and nurses to tend soldiers from the Confederacy. Exhibits are available and include a diorama of the hospital and an educational film. Visitors will learn not only about the hospital, but other Richmond hospitals and the practice of medicine during the 1800's as well.
The Virgina Center for Architecture is a museum dedicated to, as the name implies, architecture as well as design. The historic home it is located in Branch House, which houses exhibitions about architecture, interior design and more. They also host architectural walking tours in the area.
Built-in 1893, this beautiful home on the James River is a classic example of Victorian architecture and landscaping. Maymont Mansion is filled with period furniture including a magnificent swan bed. Trees and plants from all over the world were cultivated here by the owners. The English, Japanese and Italian gardens are romantic spots for strolling and picnicking. A carriage collection, children's farm, and small zoo are other favorite attractions.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts contains comprehensive collections of works from ancient times to the present. Permanent exhibits include pieces from ancient Greece, a tapestry hall, a medieval chapel and the largest collection of Faberge eggs outside of Russia. A regular schedule of temporary exhibits rounds out this comprehensive art museum. A peaceful sculpture garden provides a place for a quiet rest beside the rushing fountains. Admission is free, although USD5 donations are suggested.
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.