Wednesday, February 26, 2025
The Latest from the Virginia Beach History Museums
Preserving the Past, Enhancing the Future: Francis Land House’s Exciting Renovation, the Thoroughgood House Award Nomination, and other updates.
Herb Your Enthusiasm Focus Tours
The Virginia Beach History Museums’ historic homes all have gardens, including several types of herbs (such as rosemary, dill, sage, and lemon balm). Homeopathic medicines have been used for centuries and have gained popularity. Learn more about the healing, medicinal and culinary uses of herbs, and why they are such a “big dill” in Hampton Roads history.
Register Online
Colonial Clue: VA250th Edition Focus Tours
A crime has been committed! A body was found at the Thoroughgood House. It’s up to you to travel through the house and interrogate suspects to figure out Who did it, Where it occurred, and with what Weapon. Come celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution by solving this mystery. Those who correctly deduce the solution will win a prize.
Register Online
HerStory Focus Tours
Dive deep into the stories of some of the unheard voices in history at the Thoroughgood House. In colonial times, women’s societal power was limited, but they were essential to maintaining their families and communities around them. “HerStory” focuses on these tales, including Susannah Sanford Thoroughgood, Sarah Offley, and their connection to the Thoroughgood House, as well as stories of matriarchal indigenous societies and the experiences of enslaved women at this time. Tours include a “Create your Own” story activity. Bind your own book and continue writing your stories.
Register for Focus TourVirginia Beach History Museums
The City of Virginia Beach History Museums include the Francis Land House, Lynnhaven House, Princess Anne County Training School/Union Kempsville High School Museum and the Thoroughgood House. They are a division of the City’s Cultural Affairs Department.
As part of the municipal government of the City of Virginia Beach, the Cultural Affairs Department engages residents and visitors through meaningful arts, heritage, and cultural experiences to connect and strengthen communities.
*Note: Photos and videos may be taken by Virginia Beach History Museums staff during programs and throughout Virginia Beach History Museums buildings and grounds. If you do not wish to have your picture taken, please avoid the camera or tell the photographer.
About UsExperience the Museums
Tours
Individuals and groups are welcome to visit our historic museums, including free standard tours and special group packages.
Thoroughgood House
The Thoroughgood House is open for free tours! Sign up for tours online . Walk-ins will also be welcome as space allows.
PACTS/UKHS Museum
The Princess Anne County Training School/Union Kempsville High School Museum (PACTS/UKHS) is NOW OPEN for FREE, self-guided tours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. There is no need to register in advance for self-guided tours.
Group Visits
The Virginia Beach History Museums offer several special programs for group visits, including for traveling bus groups. Please contact us at vbhistory@vbgov.com, or call (757) 385-5100, to book group visits and ask any questions.
Museum Blog
News & Articles
Monday, December 9, 2024
It’s the Holiday Season in Virginia Beach
Festive events are sure to get you in the holiday spirit and bring lots of good cheer!
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Ghosts of Thoroughgood Past’ Paranormal Tours Return to Thoroughgood House in October
Spooky season is almost here, so join the Virginia Beach History Museums for the return of a seasonal favorite.
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
History at Home: Explore Virginia Beach History Museums’ Online Collection
Explore artifacts from Virginia Beach History Museums collections online, including those not currently on display.