History & Heritage

Explore the history of Virginia’s River Realm, where museums, trails and historical sites bring the region’s past to life. Whether you’re a dedicated historian or a casual visitor, these historical treasures provide a deeper connection to the past and a greater appreciation for the region’s enduring legacy.

Explore Our Museums

Discover the museums of Virginia’s River Realm, where a variety of exhibits showcase the region’s maritime history, colonial past, and cultural heritage. Each museum offers a unique window into the lives and stories that have defined our area, featuring everything from nautical artifacts to historical documents and photographs.

Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park

Deltaville

F.D. Crockett at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Morratico Waterfront Museum

Lively

Colonial Seaport Foundation

Deltaville

Museums of Middlesex

Deltaville

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

John Smith Shallop Explorer at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

James Mills Scottish Factor Store

Urbanna

Middlesex County Museum & Visitor Center

Saluda

Kilmarnock Museum

Kilmarnock

Essex County Museum

Tappahannock

Lancaster Virginia Historical Society

Historic Sites & Buildings

Visit preserved homes, colonial churches, and landmark buildings that offer a tangible connection to the region’s rich heritage and pivotal moments in history.

St. Paul Baptist Church

Saluda

Urbanna Baptist Church

Urbanna

Calvary Baptist Church

Saluda

Lt. General Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller House

Saluda

Essex County Museum

Tappahannock

St. Mary’s White Chapel

Lively

RS Bristow’s Store

Urbanna

John Mitchell Map at Urbanna Visitors’ Center

Urbanna

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

Museum in the Streets

Urbanna

Lansdowne

Urbanna

White Marsh Church

Philippi Christian Church

Deltaville

Antioch Baptist Church

Saluda

Zion Branch Baptist Church

Saluda

History Trails

Embark on a journey through time with the History Trails of Virginia’s River Realm. These paths guide you to pivotal sites where history was made, blending scenic beauty with educational insights.

Urbanna Kayak Trail

Trail/Tour

Middlesex County Historical Marker Trail

Trail/Tour

Timeless Retreats

Experience a blend of history and comfort by staying in one of Virginia’s River Realm’s historic vacation homes or unique boutique hotels. Each property tells its own story, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the past while enjoying modern amenities and distinctive charm.

Wilton Plantation House

Deltaville

Historic Rosegill

Urbanna

James Ross River Plantation

Urbanna

Kilmarnock Inn

Kilmarnock

Hope and Glory Inn

Irvington