Preservation Virginia facts for kids
 |
|
| Founded | 1889 |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | 204 W. Franklin Street, Richmond, Virginia |
| Key people | CEO Elizabeth Kostelny |
| Area served | Commonwealth of Virginia |
| Focus | Historic Preservation |
| Formerly called | Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities; APVA Preservation Virginia; APVA |
| Website | http://www.preservationvirginia.org/ |
Preservation Virginia is the oldest statewide group in the United States dedicated to saving historic places. It started way back in 1889. At first, it was called the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities. Later, in 2003, its name changed to APVA Preservation Virginia. Then, in 2009, it became simply Preservation Virginia. This group owns many important historic sites across Virginia. These include Historic Jamestowne, where the first permanent English settlement in North America began. They also own the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which was one of the very first public projects in the United States.
Contents
What Preservation Virginia Does
Preservation Virginia works hard to protect and save important historic buildings and items. For example, in 1889, they saved the Powder Magazine in Williamsburg, Virginia. This was many years before Colonial Williamsburg was even created. Their main goal is similar to other groups like the National Trust for Historic Preservation. However, Preservation Virginia also wants people to understand that Virginia's history is valuable. They see it as something that helps the state's economy.
How the Organization Works
Preservation Virginia has different branches all over the state. These branches help them reach more places. In Richmond, there's a group called Historic Richmond Foundation. This group works closely with Preservation Virginia. They joined forces in 2005.
Preservation Virginia also runs a special program called a "revolving fund." This program helps protect historic properties. They make sure these places are safe before they are sold. The organization also holds a yearly conference about preservation. Since 1994, Preservation Virginia has led a big archaeological dig at Jamestown. This project, called Jamestown Rediscovery, has found parts of the original 1607 settlement. It has taught us so much more about Jamestown's early days.
Saving Historic Properties: The Revolving Fund
Since 1989, Preservation Virginia has had its revolving fund program. This program is all about saving historic buildings in Virginia. These buildings might be in danger of being torn down or falling apart. The fund helps make sure these important places are protected for the future.
Historic Places You Can Visit
Preservation Virginia manages several historic sites that are open to the public as museums. These places let you step back in time and learn about Virginia's past.
- Bacon's Castle: This is the oldest brick house in Virginia. You can find it in Surry.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse: Located in Virginia Beach, this lighthouse was the first big public project ordered by President George Washington.
- Historic Jamestowne: This is the actual spot where the London Company started its settlement in May 1607. It's a very important place in American history.
- John Marshall House: This was the home of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court John Marshall. It is in Richmond.
- Patrick Henry's Scotchtown: This house in Hanover County belonged to Patrick Henry. He was a famous revolutionary and Virginia's first Governor.
- Smith's Fort Plantation: Another historic site located in Surry.
- Cole Digges House: This house in Richmond is Preservation Virginia's main office. You can visit it by making an appointment.
- Debtors' Prison: This historic building is in Accomac, Virginia. It is also open by appointment.
Preservation Virginia also takes care of the Warner Hall Graveyard in Gloucester. They also look after the Cub Creek Church site in Charlotte County.
Places They Helped Save (Legacy Properties)
Preservation Virginia has owned and fixed up many historic properties over the years. These places are now run as museums by other groups. Some of them are open for visits at certain times or by appointment.
- Farmers' Bank: Located in Petersburg.
- Northampton County Court Green: Found in Eastville, Virginia.
- Old Isle of Wight Courthouse: This historic courthouse is in Smithfield.
- Old Stone House: This house is part of the Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond.
- Pear Valley: A historic spot in Northampton County.
- Smithfield Plantation: Located in Blacksburg.
- Thomas Read's Clerk's Office: This office is now part of the Museum of Charlotte County.
- Walter Reed Birthplace: The birthplace of Walter Reed, located in Belroi, Virginia.
Preservation Virginia used to manage several sites in Fredericksburg. These are now managed by Washington Heritage Museums.
- Hugh Mercer Apothecary
- Mary Washington House
- Rising Sun Tavern
- St. James' House
