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.

The Plumb House Museum is only open for tours by scheduling with the Waynesboro Heritage Museum ahead of time. Please stop in 420 W Main Street Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm or call 540-943-3943 to schedule a tour.

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.

Displaying over 40 tons of sculpture and artwork of the late Walter Russell, the museum invites the public for tours, classes, monthly speakers, and other special events. The gallery features all of the art that was on display at Swannanoa Palace during Walter and Lao Russell’s residency. More details, along with hours of operation, can be found on the website.

Be captivated by the history of Waynesboro as galleries reveal relics from the town’s founding, industries, educational institutions, and more. The museum is conveniently located downtown and is free of charge.

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.