Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia 🇺🇸

Discover the rich heritage and enduring legacy of African Americans in the Commonwealth at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. Founded in 1981 by Carroll Anderson Sr., this vital institution is situated inside the historic Leigh Street Armory in Richmond's historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. Housed within a two-story, 12,000-square-foot space, the museum offers you an authentic, immersive look into Black community stories that span commerce, education, the arts, and entertainment across Virginia's history.

When you visit, you will encounter powerful, thought-provoking exhibitions that explore profound historical topics. Past highlights have included "Slavery at Jefferson's Monticello: Paradox of Liberty," detailing the enslaved people who built and maintained the estate, and "Funky Turns 40: Black Character Revolution," celebrating Black cartoonists and animators. The museum also commemorated four decades of storytelling with its milestone exhibit, "Forging Freedom, Justice and Equality." Additionally, the institution holds ownership of Richmond's former fallen Confederate monuments, entrusting it with a unique, transformative role in shaping local history.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, visiting this cultural hub provides an essential, eye-opening perspective on Virginia's past and ongoing cultural evolution.

What to see at Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia

• Located in the historic Leigh Street Armory building in Jackson Ward
• Spans 12,000 square feet across a two-story cultural center
• Exhibits explore Black history in arts, commerce, education, and entertainment
• Past feature on enslaved people who built Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
• Entrusted with the ownership and future of Richmond's fallen Confederate memorials

Visiting tips

Explore the surrounding Jackson Ward neighborhood after your visit to further appreciate the rich local history of Richmond's Black community.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia is easy to reach on Richmond’s public transport, and pairs naturally with American Civil War Museum and St. Peter's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Richmond travel guide.