Bad weather doesn’t have to ruin your afternoon plans. Though it may be tempting to just opt to see the latest blockbuster, we want to make a convincing case for discovering local and national history right here in LYH. Here’s what you can find.
Learn Local History
When you are in a city that has been around since the mid-1700’s, you’re bound to come across plenty of fascinating historical finds. The Lynchburg Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and artifacts of the city. In fact, there are over 25,000 objects, including thousands of photos, Civil War artifacts and antique toys that reside within the museum. Don’t miss out on their 2019 featured exhibits, Lynchburg Takes Flight and Seven Hills of History.
See One-of-a-Kind Art
We know movies are often a work of art too, but we argue that art museums can be just as enthralling as the big screen (no popcorn necessary). Lynchburg is fortunate to have a community of talented, creative artists and art enthusiasts who have venues around the city to showcase local work as well as pieces from internationally-acclaimed artists, including:
- The Maier Museum of Art– located at Randolph College, this month’s collection will focus on 9th – 21st century American art.
- Riverviews Artspace– Perfect for stumbling upon contemporary art created by local artists.
- Daura Gallery– Located at the University of Lynchburg, contains thousands of pieces from African, European and American artists.
- Liberty University Art Gallery– Located on campus, the gallery is free and open to the public and features art from nationally renowned painters and comic book artists.
- Ann White Gallery – With a rotating collection of exhibits, the Ann White Gallery is located at The Academy Center of the Arts.
Walk Through Historical Homes
Many historical figures used to call Lynchburg home at one point, and now you can explore their homes and private retreats. Poplar Forest was the private retreat of Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President of the United States and writer of the Declaration of Independence. He built it as a way to escape the constant influx of visitors to his famed Monticello home. Here he would bring his grandchildren a few months out of the year and take up his favorite pastimes like reading and thinking.
Just a short drive from Downtown is another historic home, Point of Honor. The Federal-style home was built by Dr. George Cabell, friend of Thomas Jefferson and physician to Patrick Henry. The home is iconic to Lynchburg history, as seven influential local families, including state senators, lived in the home at one point.
Enjoy Interactive Activities
Looking for more hands-on activities for the kids? They can get their fill at Amazement Square, an interactive children’s museum. Each of the four floors are packed with fun exhibits designed to entertain and educate, including art, maker/builder and engineering stations.
Get to Know Individuals’ Stories
History is more than just artifacts, it’s about preserving stories of pivotal figures who made a difference in our world. One of those individuals is Anne Spencer, an internationally-acclaimed poet whose work heavily influenced the Harlem Renaissance. Her home and gardens (bring an umbrella) are available for tour on Pierce Street.
On Monroe Street, there is the Legacy Museum, which is dedicated to preserving African American history in the Lynchburg surrounding area. There, you will find artifacts and documents as well as stories of local African Americans.