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a unique window into the lives and stories that have defined our area, featuring everything from nautical artifacts to historical documents and photographs.

Morratico Waterfront Museum

Lively

F.D. Crockett at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Lancaster Virginia Historical Society

Colonial Seaport Foundation

Deltaville

Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park

Deltaville

John Smith Shallop Explorer at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

James Mills Scottish Factor Store

Urbanna

Middlesex County Museum & Visitor Center

Saluda

Kilmarnock Museum

Kilmarnock

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

Museums of Middlesex

Deltaville

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.

Union Shiloh Baptist Church

Saluda

Grafton Baptist Church

Topping

First Baptist Church of Harmony Village

Topping

All Saints Anglican Church – Old Centenary Methodist Church

Saluda

Lower United Methodist Church

Deltaville

White Marsh Church

St. Mary’s White Chapel

Lively

Lancaster Court House Historic District

Lively

Lt. General Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller Memorial Park

Saluda

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

The Marble House

Urbanna

Calvary Baptist Church

Saluda

Clarksbury United Methodist Church

Deltaville

RS Bristow’s Store

Urbanna

Christ Church Parish Episcopal – Christ Church School

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.

Historic Rosegill

Urbanna

James Ross River Plantation

Urbanna

Hope and Glory Inn

Irvington

Kilmarnock Inn

Kilmarnock

Wilton Plantation House

Deltaville