The RISE Foundation has opened a one of a kind library for the state of Virginia: The All Black Library. The library has purchased and shelved over 1,500 books since opening in August of 2020.

This library highlights the stories, history, family, encouragement, faith, love, and relationships of Black people told by Black people from all over the world. They have both fiction and non-fiction books, for kids, teens, and adults!

Due to Covid-19, the library is open by appointment only. Call (540) 221-6964 and leave a message if you would like to tour the library and/or RISE facility.

Major James Dooley of Richmond built this white marble palace in 1913 for his beloved wife, Sallie May, and the two used it as a summer home. Today, the majestic house is privately owned and open to the public on select weekends throughout the year.

A short stroll from downtown, the Plumb House Museum stands as the oldest frame structure in Waynesboro. It was built during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson and later found itself in the Battle of Waynesboro, the last significant Civil War Battle in the Shenandoah Valley, in 1865. The historic museum currently houses Civil War and Native American artifacts as well as everyday household items from the era. Visitors can learn about the Plumb family who owned the house for five generations.

The Plumb House is open for tours Thursdays 10:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Along with a rotating exhibit gallery, the Russell Museum is also home to an extensive collection of the life’s work and history of Walter and Lao Russell. Walter and Lao lived in Swannanoa Palace from 1948-1963. There, they established a workplace and museum, which was moved to downtown Waynesboro in 2019. Learn the history of Walter’s occupation as a multi-media artist and take a look at some of his work. It’s a super interesting museum and self-guided tours are free. The museum also has event space that can be rented out for private functions.

The most museum-y of all our museums, the Heritage Museum opened at their current location in 2007 in what was once First National Bank. There are seven galleries to stroll through (one in the bank vault!) and rotating exhibits that tell the story of Waynesboro. The museum preserves and houses a collection of thousands of artifacts that represent the history of Waynesboro’s industry, education, residents, and more.  Admission is always free, and it’s definitely worth a visit!

Celebrating Black history in Waynesboro, this by-appointment-only museum houses a small but rich collection that weaves a tapestry of revered figures in the community. Waynesboro’s Rosenwald School was one of many built across the south through a partnership between Julius and Booker T. Washington in what has been called the most important initiative to advance black education in the early 20th century. Be sure to call to get a first hand look at the historical significance Waynesboro’s African American community had in shaping the city.

Please call (540) 836-0024 to make a reservation.