Collections and Library
Collections
The Virginia War Memorial’s collection houses thousands of artifacts, including a drivable 1942 Packard Army Staff Car from WWII. While many items in the collection are on exhibit, the majority of artifacts are kept safely in storage to be used for research and future exhibitions, or are undergoing restoration.
The USS Birmingham Research Library
The U.S.S. Birmingham Research Library is home to a collection of works that inform about Virginia’s involvement in war, and that explores the role of Virginians at war. The library also contains a variety of training manuals prepared by all branches of the U.S. Military. The library supports the research needs of the Virginia War Memorial’s staff. THe public is welcome to search the titles in the library’s holdings, and to use the library as a research resource. The collection is non-circulating, and is available by appointment only.
Search the U.S.S. Birmingham Research Library
Archives
The Virginia War Memorial Archives are housed in the U.S.S. Birmingham Research Library. The archives contain material related to those Virginians who have served in our military, as well as material related to military conflicts. Most of the material is from the 20th century. Among the records in the more than 600 files of the archives you will find memoirs, photographs, official orders, correspondence, and publications. Items that are in the artifact collections of the Virginia War Memorial often have associated archival materials.
Researchers are welcome and encouraged, but please note the archives are available by appointment only.
Donation Policy
The Virginia War Memorial is fortunate to have friends and supporters offer books and personal artifacts to the collections, archives, and library. Our staff is happy to discuss an potential donations with you or set up an appointment for artifact review.
We are primarily looking for military objects owned by Virginians and/or related to Virginia history, including uniforms, weaponry, correspondence, journals, photographs and other personal items. Please call or email to schedule an appointment.
Contact Information:
Jesse Smith
Curator
Phone: 804.786.2067
Email: info@vawarmemorial.org
Sylvia Marshall
Archivist
Phone: 804.786.1468
Email: sylvia.marshall@dvs.virginia.gov
