Museum dedicated to preserving the life and culture of Richmond, Virginia.
The Valentine collects, preserves and interprets Richmond's 400-year history. Located in the heart of historic downtown Richmond, the Valentine provides a lively, compelling venue for Richmond residents and tourists to discover the diverse stories that come together to tell the intriguing history of Richmond.
Keywords: Richmond, Virginia, History, Culture, Tours, National Landmark, Historic Home, Sculpture, Education, Costume, Textiles, Research, Archives
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
The Valentine Museum opened to the public in 1898.
What is your primary product or service?
Museum and archives
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
The Valentine Museum was created with a bequest in 1892 from Mann S. Valentine II, who left a sum of money and his collection of scientific artifacts and art objects, as well as the Wickham House for public education and research. His brother, Edward V. Valentine, served as the museum's first president when it opened to the public in 1898.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
The Valentine has been collecting, preserving and interpreting Richmond's 400-year history for over a century. Located in the heart of historic downtown, the Valentine is a place for residents and tourists to discover the diverse stories that tell the broader history of this important region.
A comprehensive program of exhibitions, tours, special events, research opportunities, school programs and other public programs engage the broadest audience in an ongoing dialogue about the significance and relevance of the city's history.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
Currently the Valentine's main campus is located in the historic Court End neighborhood of Richmond. On the campus is the 1812 John Wickham House, the Valentine Garden, the Edward V. Valentine Sculpture Studio and the main museum which includes an education center, galleries, meeting spaces, a museum store and a research archives. The Valentine also operates the First Freedom Center located at 14 S. 14th Street in Shockoe Bottom.
Provide detailed directions to your location
The Valentine is located in historic downtown Richmond at 10th and E. Clay streets.
From Downtown
From downtown, take Franklin Street east to Capitol Square. Turn left onto 9th Street, then take the second right onto Marshall Street. Turn left onto 10th Street. The entrance to the parking lot is located just passed the corner of 10th and Marshall Street on your right.
From the East
From I-64 Westbound, take the 5th Street exit. Turn left onto Marshall Street and proceed to 10th Street. Turn left onto 10th Street. The entrance to the parking lot is located just passed the corner of 10th and Marshall Street on your right.
From the West
From I-64 Eastbound, take I-95 South to the 3rd Street exit. Turn left onto Marshall Street and proceed to 10th Street. Turn left onto 10th Street. The entrance to the parking lot is located just passed the corner of 10th and Marshall Street on your right.
From North or South
From I-95 North or South, take exit 74C, Broad Street. Go west on Broad Street to 11th Street and turn right. Take the second left onto Clay Street. Proceed to 10th Street. Turn left onto 10th Street. The entrance to the parking lot is located just passed the corner of 10th and Clay Street on your left.
Parking is available in the Valentine's lot, accessible from 10th Street between E. Marshall and E. Clay. Please check in with the parking attendant and ask reception to validate your parking before leaving the Valentine.
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash, check and most major credit cards are accepted.
Which areas do you service?
We service the Greater Richmond area which includes the City of Richmond and 13 surrounding counties.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
The Valentine is a non-profit organization managed by a board of trustees and a staff comprised of both full-time, part-time and seasonal employees.
What are your hours of operation?
Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. The Valentine is closed to the public on Mondays except for major holidays. Research appointments in our archives are accepted by appointment only.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
Beautiful museum with a lot to see detailing the 400 years of Richmond history and culture.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
About the Valentine Museum, the Richmond Dispatch, Nov. 21, 1898 said:
"Richmond has long been in need of such an institution, and therefore it satisfies a public want."
Contact The Valentine:
