The Virginia Historical Society was established in 1831 and has operated as such for the past 187 years. But, this year marks a big change for one of the Commonwealth’s oldest cultural institutions. Moving forward, its Boulevard headquarters will be called the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.
“We may be the Commonwealth’s oldest cultural institution, and one of the most distinguished history organizations in the country, but we are ready for meaningful change and progress—to do more and be more for the people of Virginia and beyond,” said President and CEO, Jamie O. Bosket. “We believe that our new museum name will encourage visitation, be more welcoming, and better articulate our chief purpose.”
The new name will be officially announced at a WWI Centennial Gala, with special remarks by the Honorable Ralph Northam, 73rd Governor of Virginia. Board members and representatives from peer institutions will attend, as well as representatives from the current lead exhibition sponsor, The Boeing Company.
Mr. Bosket explained that the new name does not replace the organization’s historic identity; Virginia Historical Society will live on as the name of the parent organization under which membership will remain as well as its premier research library, newly named museum, and renowned 9-million-item history collection. The Virginia Museum of History & Culture is intended to create a fresh and effective means of fulfilling the mission: connecting people to America’s past through the unparalleled story of Virginia. The hope is that the new name will convey a more welcoming persona that will help promote visitation and attract a new and more inclusive generation of history lovers.
The name change was resoundingly reinforced by several months of thoughtful research. The institution polled thousands of members and non-members, talked with partner organizations across the state, consulted with staff and the Board of Trustees, and conducted extensive industry and audience analyses. All insights pointed to the solution—start calling the building what it is, a museum, but also keep Virginia Historical Society as the overarching identity. Members were notified of the new name earlier this month and the public will begin seeing the transition over the next few weeks.
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture is currently hosting to one of the largest commemorations for the centennial of World War I (1914 to 1918). Hundreds of original artifacts and important personal narratives in WW1 America tell the story of the war overseas and its dramatic impact on the home front. Special travelling exhibitions, and big upcoming events on Memorial Day and July 4, serve as opportunities to engage a wide variety of audiences with diverse interests in Virginia history and to put the new name to the test. A new chapter begins in the history of the Commonwealth, and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture intends to welcome curious minds for another 187 years.
Founded in 1831, the Virginia Historical Society is the oldest cultural organization in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the nation. It houses a collection of more than 9 million items and serves as the state history museum. It displays permanent and special exhibitions as well as a vibrant portfolio of public programs at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture located at 428 North Boulevard in Richmond’s Museum District. Hours are Monday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for the galleries and museum shop, Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for the library. For more information call (804) 358-4901, visit VirginiaHistory.org, or connect with the Virginia Museum of History & Culture on Facebook and Twitter.
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