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Visit the Gloucester Museum of History
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
On Saturday, May 14th, and Sunday, May 15th, the museum hosted Gloucester 1776: A Revolutionary Experience. Reenactors and living historians brought the American Revolution to life with cannon and musket firing demonstrations, colonial cooking, and examples of solider and civilian life. Over 200 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
The Museum will be hosting two camps for rising 4th through 6th grade students this summer. Civil War Camp will be held the week July 11, and Explore Virginia History Camp will be held during the week of July 18. Both camps will feature field trips to local historic sites and museums, and a “behind the scenes” opportunity at the Gloucester Museum of History. To learn more and to register your camper, please visit: https://secure.rec1.com/VA/gloucester-county-va/catalog.
SAVE THE DATE: The Museum’s annual living history weekend commemorating the Battle of the Hook will be held on Saturday, October 1st , and Sunday, October 2nd.
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.
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Museum of History
Physical Address
6539 Main Street
Gloucester, VA 23061
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1176
Gloucester, VA 23061
Phone: 804-693-1234
Hours
Monday - Saturday
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Closed Sundays and Holidays
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Robert Kelly
Museums Coordinator