The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) brings history to life through interactive exhibitions in historic Jackson Ward, illuminating the achievements, struggles, culture, and contributions of Black Virginians. The museum’s mission is to share, interpret, preserve, exhibit, and commemorate African American history and culture, offering student groups a deep and authentic exploration of this essential part of Virginia’s story. I am running a few minutes late; my previous meeting is running over.
More than a museum and cultural center that houses historical documents and artifacts, the building itself holds history. Built by black craftsmen, the two-story brick building is a sight to behold. With the grandeur of a small castle, it initially served as the Leigh Street Armory, housing black soldiers’ armory. Shortly thereafter, it became the Black branch of the Richmond Public Library and was named in honor of Richmond’s first Black female schoolteacher, Rosa D. Bowser.
After being repurposed a few more times – as a recreation center for black troops, an annex and gym for local schoolhouses, then the Colored Special School – it eventually was abandoned following a fire. Finally, in 2016, it was restored and became the new home of the BHMVA, where it still provides visitors with a story of perseverance. The building’s storied history as a home for Black learning adds a local layer that exemplifies the museum’s mission, giving every visit a profound lesson before students even reach the exhibits.
Student Tours & Experiences
The BHMVA is a pillar in the community, with a focus on educating the youth. Guided school tours give students the chance to engage with permanent exhibitions alongside new rotating exhibitions introduced several times throughout the year, ensuring returning groups always find fresh content to explore. Exhibits cover a wide range of subjects, from the achievements of notable Black Virginians to the broader cultural and historical narrative of the African American experience in the state and beyond.
Students will gain a more comprehensive story through the museum’s exhibitions, full of personal stories of Black Virginians and interactive exhibits. The exhibitions include stories that inspire, educate, and highlight the importance of Black history in Virginia. Permanent installations like Wendell Scott – NASCAR’s First Black Driver and Sone-Seere’ Burrell: “The Norfolk Sound Tour Special Edition” highlight the achievements and personal stories of lesser-known, prominent historical figures and current icons. Rotating exhibitions highlight everything from appreciating black artists to breaking down 250 years of history through a new lens.
BHMVA continues to grow its educational programming, inspiring the next generation to learn about significant state history through its offerings. Students take a tour of Black history through the centuries, learning about Virginia’s past and present in a new way. From personal narratives throughout history to modern-day impacts of past events, students can gain a more inclusive education here than in a textbook.
