Industrial & heritage museums in Virginia

The Science Museum of Virginia, situated in Richmond, is a significant institution that was established in 1970. It operates as an agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia, making it an integral part of the state's commitment to promoting scientific knowledge and understanding.

The Cape Henry Lighthouses are a significant landmark located at Cape Henry, which marks the southern entrance to the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia. These two lighthouses have played a crucial role in guiding ocean-going shipping traffic for the harbors, its rivers, and shipping headed to ports on the bay. Their strategic location and historical significance make them an interesting site for visitors.

The Branch House, located in Richmond, Virginia, was designed in 1916 by the renowned firm of John Russell Pope. It was originally built as a private residence for financier John Kerr Branch and his wife, Beulah Gould Branch. This historical building offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the early 20th century and the lifestyle of the wealthy Branch family.

The O. Winston Link Museum is a unique institution dedicated to the work of O. Winston Link, a renowned 20th-century railroad photographer. Link's work is celebrated for its distinctive juxtaposition of steam railroading and rural culture, offering a unique perspective on a bygone era. Visitors to the museum can expect to immerse themselves in Link's world, exploring the intersection of industrial progress and rural life through his evocative photography.

The Burwell-Morgan Mill, also known as the Millwood Mill, is a historic grist mill located in Millwood, Clarke County, Virginia. This mill, built around 1785, is a significant part of American history, having been constructed by Gen. Daniel Morgan and Lt. Col. Nathaniel Burwell, both of whom served in the American Revolution. The mill is a two-story structure with a gable roof, measuring approximately 45 feet by 60 feet. It features a rebuilt water wheel of Peruvian mahogany.

The United States Lightship 101, now known as Portsmouth (LV-101), is a museum ship that was first stationed at Cape Charles in Virginia. Today, it is a significant part of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in Portsmouth, Virginia. This historic ship offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region and serves as a fascinating attraction for visitors.

The Strasburg Museum, originally known as the Strasburg Stone and Earthenware Manufacturing Company, is a historic factory building situated in Strasburg, Shenandoah County, Virginia. This building, which was constructed in 1891, carries a rich history and serves as a testament to the region's industrial past.

Big Otter Mill, also known as Forbes Mill, is a historic grist mill situated near Bedford, Bedford County, Virginia, USA. This mill is a significant part of the local history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. Its location near Bedford makes it easily accessible for tourists.

In addition to recognizing inventors, the NIHF also operates a museum in Alexandria, Virginia. This museum showcases the work of the inductees and provides insight into their inventions. The NIHF also sponsors educational programs and a collegiate competition, further promoting the spirit of invention and innovation.

Farmers' Bank holds a unique position as the first bank museum of its kind in Virginia. It was incorporated in the year 1812 and opened its doors to the public in Petersburg, Virginia in 1817. This historical establishment offers a glimpse into the banking history of the region and the country.

The Cyrus McCormick Farm and Workshop, also known as Walnut Grove, is situated near Steele's Tavern and Raphine, close to the northern border of Rockbridge and Augusta counties in Virginia. This historic site was the family farm of inventor Cyrus Hall McCormick, who improved and patented the mechanical reaper, a significant invention that led to the creation of the combine harvester.

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, along with the associated Lightship Museum, is situated on the downtown waterfront of Portsmouth, Virginia, in the United States. These museums offer a unique insight into the rich maritime history of the region and are easily accessible due to their central location.

The Richmond Railroad Museum is located at the site of the historic Hull Street Station. This station was a significant railroad station in the city of Richmond, Virginia. It was constructed by the Southern Railway as a replacement for the Mill Street Station. The history of the station adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a site of interest for those keen on understanding the evolution of rail transport in the region.

Located in Great Falls, Virginia, the Colvin Run Mill is a historical site that dates back to around 1811. This mill is the only operational 19th-century water-powered mill in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Its restored mechanism is a nationally significant example of automated technologies that were pioneered in milling and later adopted across American industry.

George Washington's Gristmill, part of the original Mount Vernon plantation, offers a glimpse into the life and times of the United States' first president. Although the original structure was destroyed around 1850, it has been faithfully reconstructed by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Mount Vernon Ladies Association. The reconstructed buildings are located at their original site, three miles west of the Mount Vernon mansion, near Woodlawn Plantation in the Mont Vernon area of Fairfax County.

The Isle of Wight County Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that span different periods of history. These include prehistoric fossils, colonial and pre-colonial artifacts, a replica of a turn-of-the-century country store, and displays that interpret the Smithfield ham industry. The museum's most notable artifact is the world's oldest edible cured ham, which is a testament to the region's rich culinary history.

The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is a state-run museum in Virginia, dedicated to preserving the history of the southwestern part of the state. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history of this region and understand its cultural and historical significance.

Edinburg Mill, located in Edinburg, Virginia, is a grist mill that stands on Stony Creek. The mill is set on a limestone basement, adding to its historic charm. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural and historical significance of the mill.

The Eastern Shore Railway Museum is situated at 18568 Dunne Avenue, Parksley, Virginia, United States. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient destination for tourists interested in railway history and memorabilia.