Historic Sites

Swords, armor, music, giant turkey legs: what’s not to love? Renaissance faires are having a moment (again), but how did a celebration of Renaissance Europe become so popular on American soil?

A school building we mistakenly thought was lost was recently found. During an ATV ride through the woods of Mecklenburg County, a family came across a school building near Boydton, […]

When colonists first settled in Virginia, they brought many holidays and traditions from their countries of origin with them. Although many of these early holidays would form the basis for modern customs, the characteristics and meanings of said holidays were different from modern ones in surprising and fascinating ways.

It’s officially the holiday season! This year, take a look at our holiday gift guide and stop by our historic sites for some truly unique gifts for the history lover in your life—and remember, Preservation Virginia members receive 10% off in our gift shops and free admission to our sites all year long!

Every historic building in Virginia has a story contained within its walls. From small residential homes to great churches and castles, hidden narratives can always be found — if you know where to look. Here are the intriguing stories behind some of the oldest buildings in the Commonwealth.