Organization of the Week: Preservation Virginia

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Every Monday, I highlight a non-profit related to history or the arts, a historical society, preservation group or friends group whose main objective is to promote the historical and artistic history of New Jersey and beyond.

This week, I am featuring Preservation Virginia. Founded in 1889, Preservation Virginia holds the notable distinction of being the first statewide historic preservation organization in the nation. Preservation Virginia is dedicated to perpetuating and revitalizing Virginia's cultural, architectural, and historic heritage thereby ensuring that historic places are integral parts of the lives of present and future generations. Since its founding, the organization has a proud legacy of saving, preserving, promoting, and serving as an advocate for Virginia’s historic places which total more than 160.

In 1893, Preservation Virginia acquired 22.5 acres of Jamestown Island, now part of Historic Jamestowne. In 1994, they began an archaeological project called Jamestown Rediscovery to find the remains of the original James Fort, circa 1607 - 1624. Since then, the project has yielded more than 2 million artifacts and is on-going. Many notable discoveries have been made and a portion are on display at the Nathalie P. and Alan M. Voorhees Archaearium at the site.

In addition to Historic Jamestowne, Preservation Virginia manages and maintains Bacon's Castle, Cape Henry Lighthouse, The John Marshall House, Patrick Henry's Scotchtown, and Smith's Fort Plantation as historic sites open to the public.

Preservation Virginia relies on memberships, fundraising, and countless volunteers to continue its mission. For more information on programs, special events, and exhibits hosted by the Preservation Virginia at its many historic sites or to become a member or volunteer, please call 804-648-1889 or visit www.preservationvirginia.org.

If you are a member of a non-profit organization or know of one that you would like to see featured on this site, please let us know in the comments or send an e-mail to kelly@thehistorygirl.com.



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Location: Historic Jamestowne, Jamestown, VA 23081, USA

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