Collections & Archives
Collections are the foundation of the Historical Society of Western Virginia. They tell the stories of those individuals who have migrated through, lived and worked in the greater Roanoke Valley, as well as in southwestern Virginia.
Experience Roanoke Valley History
Collecting and caring for these materials ensures that they remain accessible for future generations. Through careful preservation, documentation, and stewardship, we protect our shared heritage while supporting research, education, and community engagement.
Every donation to the collection helps preserve another piece of our region's story, ensuring that the history of western Virginia continues to inform and inspire for years to come.
Heironimus and Brugh Parade Float, 1895 - 1990.69.758
Collection Items
Aviator Helmet, Gift of Carolyn Newell from the Collection of Charles Newell, 2024.29.006
Detail of Edward Beyer’s Grove Hill, 1855, oil on canvas. On loan from the General James Breckinridge Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Busy Facts for the Busy Man about the Magic City, c. 1910. Gift of Edmund Goodwin, 1958.10.8
Museum Conservation
Conservation in museum collections is a vital part of the work of the Historical Society of Western Virginia.
Conservation Stories
Sara Airheart Endowment for Collections
Honoring long-time collections volunteer Sara Stonesifer Airheart, the Sara Airheart Endowment for Collections began in 2023 at the celebration of Sara's 95th birthday. The Endowment provides long-term support for the preservation, conservation, and growth of the Historical Society of Western Virginia's collections, which operates both the Roanoke History and O. Winston Link Museums.
Donations to the Sara Airheart Endowment for Collection help ensure that important historical objects, artworks, and archival materials are cared for and accessible well into the future.
Want to Learn More?
Join us for our quarterly event, Collections Unpacked, where the Museum’s Curator delves deeper into the history of items in the collection that are rarely on display.
The Roanoke History Museum & the Historical Society of Western Virginia collects material relating to Botetourt, Bedford, Craig, Franklin, Floyd, Montgomery, Roanoke City, Roanoke County, and Salem to better tell the rich cultural story of our region. With over 100,000 artifacts, letters, photographs, textiles, and Roanoke related ephemera, the museum’s collection spans from 1720s to today.
The Historical Society of Western Virginia also maintains a robust digital collection.
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