Visit the Gloucester Museum of History

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About the Museum 

The Botetourt Building, now the Gloucester Museum of History, was built in the year 1770. This 251-year-old historic building was once a tavern used by travelers as they made their way to do business at Gloucester Courthouse. Today, the Museum of History is home to over 3,000 objects, ranging from archival documents and photographs to large antique agricultural tools. These items are vital to telling the rich and intricate history of Gloucester County.

Mission Statement

The Gloucester Museum of History strives to engage, educate, and inspire future generations by collecting, preserving, and interpreting the diverse history, heritage, and culture of Gloucester County.

Recent Events 

IMG_5661On Saturday, October 2nd and Sunday, October 3rd, the museum hosted Fire, Smoke & Muskets: Gloucester 1781. Reenactors and living historians brought the Battle of the Hook to life with cannon and musket firing demonstrations, colonial cooking, and examples of solider and civilian life. Over 300 guests from across the region attended the event. Many thanks to the Gloucester Historical Society, Friends of the Museum, and the 7th Virginia Regiment, for making the event a fun and educational experience!

Upcoming Events

Winter Holiday Day Camp – Discover Virginia History: Jamestown to the American Revolution – Tuesday, December 28th – Thursday, December 30th

Designed for 3rd- 5th graders, this special three day camp will provide an opportunity for visits to Jamestown and Yorktown and a special behind-the-scenes experience at the Gloucester Museum of History. From the Virginia Indians, to the English Colonists and First Africans, to the American Revolution, campers will spend three days immersed in history. This will be a fun, interactive, and educational way to spend a few days of winter break! For more information please visit https://secure.rec1.com/VA/gloucester-county-va/catalog and click the “Day Camps” tab. 

Field Trips & Group Tours

Field trips and group tours are free; however, we ask that you contact us 30-days in advance to schedule your museum experience. 

Please contact Museums Coordinator, Robert Kelly, at (804) 693-1234 or rkelly@gloucesterva.info.

Volunteering & Internships 

Interested in history? Would you like to interpret Gloucester’s history to school groups and students? Want to go behind the scenes at the Museum to assist with research, collections, or archives? Do you enjoy special events and living history, or just want to greet visitors? Volunteers are always needed in these areas at the Gloucester Museum of History. Share your individual talents and skills with us and our visitors. As a volunteer you will learn new skills and information, meet new people, enjoy the historic surroundings of a 251-year-old building, help the museum move forward with numerous projects, and have fun! To learn more about volunteering please contact Museums Coordinator, Robert Kelly, at (804) 693-1234 or rkelly@gloucesterva.info.

Click here to access information regarding internship opportunities!  

Research Requests 

The Gloucester Museum of History operates a library and special collections for researchers. Contact the Museums Coordinator, Robert Kelly, at (804) 693-1234 or rkelly@gloucesterva.info to schedule an appointment.

Parking 

Parking is free and the Museum's parking lot is located on the corner of Main Street and Carriage Court. Additional parking can be found on Main Street.

Admission & Donations 

Admission to the Museum is free for all ages; however, we do accept and appreciate donations. 

Interested in donating an object to the Museum's collection? Please contact the Museums Coordinator, Robert Kelly, at (804) 693-1234 or rkelly@gloucesterva.info. 

Accessibility Statement

The Gloucester Museum of History is dedicated and committed to creating a positive experience and environment for all who visit. All visitors have the right to be fully engaged in the cultural life of their community. Due to the age of the Museum’s building, physical barriers may be present; however, we would like to address the needs of our community and its members to the best of our ability. Please contact the Museums Coordinator with questions, suggestions, or any concerns you may have.