Public History in RVA...
Regardless of where I travel or for what reason, I try to fit a little history into the trip. A recent journey to Richmond, Virginia, was no exception, but between family visits and wrangling two grand kids, there was only a sliver of time. Not only were we strapped for time, but by the time the family reunion ended, the local museums were closing their doors for the night.
Thanks to the innovative public approach to history, storytelling, and art, we were still able to enjoy several opportunities, including the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, and the exterior sculptures and interpretation at the Civil War Museum at Tredegar. The Virginia War Memorial, also available after hours, also called to us with its hauntingly illuminated Shrine of Memory. From hamming it up “surrendering” to the cannon, to chatting with Lincoln, we had a blast, and I am doing my best to nourish the next generation of museum geeks. Thank you, Richmond, for assisting with that endeavor!