WESTMORELAND COUNTY MUSEUM
Our Mission Statement
“The purpose of the Westmoreland County Museum and Library is to preserve the history of Westmoreland County and its people through its collections, library, research materials, exhibits, and educational programs in order to increase the understanding and
appreciation of the County’s heritage.”
Westmoreland County, Virginia is ancestral home of three of our nations first five presidents – George Washington, James Monroe and James Madison. The only two brothers to sign the Declaration of Independence- Richard Henry and Francis Lightfoot Lee were also Westmoreland County residents. The County is also the location of Nomini Hall, where Robert Carter III voluntarily freed nearly 500 of his enslaved people, beginning in 1791. This manumission is the largest known release of the enslaved in North America prior to the American Civil War.
Founded in 1939, the Westmoreland County Museum, Inc. preserves and advances the history of our special place in the Northern Neck. Stop by the original museum to view the Charles Willson Peale painting of William Pitt (Lord Chatham) from 1768, as well as furniture donated by the Washington family.
The Historic Courthouse features rotating exhibits on local history and includes the Henry Hungerford Library and Genealogical Research Center. Make sure to stop in the Wakefield Building on Saturdays to shop at our Mercantile and make yourself a float at the Soda Shoppe.
Latest News & Updates
Below are our latest updates. Click Here to view past updates.
THANK YOU All for Your Donations
The Westmoreland County Museum relies on the generosity of individuals like you to continue preserving and sharing the rich history of our region. Your donation helps us maintain historic sites, curate educational exhibits, host cultural events, and provide meaningful programs for all ages. Every contribution—large or small—makes a lasting impact on our ability to celebrate the stories, people, and heritage that shape Westmoreland County. Please consider making a tax-deductible gift today and join us in keeping history alive for generations to come.
Plan Your Visit or Connect With Us
We welcome visitors of all kinds to the Westmoreland County Museum. Whether you are stopping in to explore our exhibits, bringing a group for an educational experience, or looking to connect more deeply with the history of our region, we are glad to have you here. Our spaces are designed to serve the public, and we are always happy to help you make the most of your visit.
For group tours, school visits, private experiences, or special events, we ask that you submit an inquiry in advance so we can properly prepare. This allows our staff to tailor your visit, coordinate access to specific exhibits or collections, and ensure that your group has a meaningful and well-supported experience. We regularly work with schools, organizations, tour groups, and community partners, and we are happy to accommodate a wide range of needs with proper notice.
If you are interested in speaking with the Director or a member of our team, we also encourage you to reach out through the inquiry form. Whether your request involves research, collaboration, media, programming, or general questions, submitting a request ensures it is directed to the appropriate person and responded to in a timely manner.
We look forward to welcoming you and working with you to create a thoughtful and engaging experience. Please complete the inquiry form, and a member of our team will be in touch soon.
