Richmond, Virginia – A Capitol Idea

An Easy City to Love!

By J. J. Scott

Founded in 1607 by Captain John Newport and John Smith, the city was named by William Byrd II because the bend in the river reminded him of the Thames in Richmond, England. Located at the highest navigable site along the James River it became an important area for transporting tobacco and other goods from the interior to England and the rest of the world.

1.  In the beginning: Start at the Virginia Historical Society for a comprehensive overview of the state. The detailed exhibit “The Story of Virginia, an American Experience” starts with a video that traces the beginning of America with the landing in Jamestown in 1607 to the present time. Long-term exhibits feature military equipment and silver. As William Byrd II said, “All of America was once Virginia.” www.vahistorical.org

2.  “Give me Liberty…”: Listen to the guide repeat portions of Patrick Henry’s impassioned speech ending with a resounding “Give me liberty or give me death” at St. John’s Church, a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1741, it is the oldest wooden church in Virginia and still has an active congregation. PRIVATE "TYPE=PICT;ALT=St. John's Church Painting"In March of 1775 over 100 Virginia colonial leaders, including Patrick Henry, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Richard Henry Lee, and Peyton Randolph gathered in Richmond to discuss the “situation” in the colonies. Henry’s resolutions to support the colonial cause and sever ties with England passed by a narrow margin. www.historicstjohnschurch.org

3.  A Capitol place: Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the Capitol is home to the oldest continuous representative assembly.  The newly renovated building and grounds are outstanding. Note the unusual dome. It is only visible from the interior under which is an 18-ton life-size marble statue of George Washington.  It is probably best likeness of Washington as he posed for the sculptor who had a life mask face mask made of Washington.

4.  The White House: During the Civil War the Confederate President Jefferson Davis and his family lived in the house that has been restored and contain an amazing sixty percent of the original furnishings.  Adjacent is the Museum of the Confederacy.  Take note of the display whereby newspapers of the day erroneously claimed Davis was captured wearing his wife’s clothing.

5.  Black History: The Black History and Cultural Center illustrates the history of African-Americans, specifically Virginians. An excellent video follows the development of the Jackson Ward, a National Historic District, from the early days when it was settled by free blacks to its hey day in the middle of the 20th Century to today.  www.blackhistorymuseum.org

6.  Monument Avenue: Along the shaded divided street lined with historic building are monuments to Virginia citizens from the first and largest of the street's monuments that is dedicated to Robert E. Lee, to the most recent honoring Arthur Ashe Jr., tennis star and philanthropist.

7.  Unravel the mystery: Learning is fun at the Science Museum of Virginia. Displays takes visitors from ancient times to the future and from smallest crystals to the vastness of space. Newton in Space exhibits Explore Newton's laws of gravity and momentum. Test your astronaut skills as you control a gyro chair into a docking position. Home to the IMAX Dome. www.smv.org

8.  Take a break: The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is 40 acres of beauty and blooms.  The perfect place to wander with pleasant surprises at every turn. Find the Tea House, the thatched cottage, the tree house, a healing garden, a children’s garden, all while enjoying the diversity of flowers, trees and plants and changing displays. www.lewisginter.org

9.  The Raven: Located in the oldest existing house in Richmond, The Poe Museum provides a retreat into early 19th century Richmond where Edgar Allan Poe lived and worked. The museum features Poe's life and career by documenting his accomplishments with pictures, relics, and verse, and focusing on his many years in Richmond. www.poemuseum.org

10.  Canal walk: Stretching more than a mile along the James River and canals, the Canal Walk presents four centuries of history through markers. Seasonal narrated canal cruises are available. It is also the place to explore the River District with a variety of shops and dining options. www.richmondriverdistrict.com

There is more to see and do in Richmond including museums dedicated to the Civil War, Holocaust, Medicine, and Fine Arts. For more information visit www.visit.richmond.com or call 800-370-9004.  About one hour away is Virginia’s Historic Triangle: Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown.