Tour Tribal Museums Near Richmond

The Pamunkey Indian Museum

Learn about Indigenous history in the Richmond area by visiting museum exhibits curated by Tribal communities. Today, there are 7 federal and 11 state recognized Tribes in the commonwealth of Virginia. These museums and virtual exhibits are open to the public. Be sure to check the websites provided before visiting, as hours are sometimes limited. 

Pamunkey Indian Museum & Reservation

Address: 175 Lay Landing Rd, King William, VA 23086
Phone: [phone]
Web: http://pamunkey.org/reservation/museum-cultural-center/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamunkeyIndianMuseumAndCulturalCenter

The Pamunkey Indian Museum is operated by the Pamunkey Tribe and can be found on the Tribe’s reservation on the Pamunkey River in coastal Virginia. The museum tells the story of the tribe from as far back as the last Ice Age to the present day. On display are items intended to teach about the Tribe’s way of life over time. Also at the museum are objects that tell the story of the Tribe’s place in historical events, such as an ornate frontlet that was commissioned by King Charles II for Chief Cockacoeske. Contemporary pottery and other artwork can be purchased in the museum’s store. NOTICE: Please call ahead or check the museum's Facebook page to verify that the museum is open. 

Mattaponi Indian Reservation

The Mattaponi Indian Reservation is one of two reservations in Virginia, the other being the Pamunkey Indian Reservation. A museum on the reservation tells a long and varied story of the Tribe's history here on Virginia's "Middle Penninsula," from modern newspaper clippings to centuries-old artifacts. The reservation also includes a shad hatchery, trading post, and pottery studio. Before visiting, contact the Tribe at [phone] to confirm open hours. 
 

Patawomeck Tribe of Virginia Museum & Cultural Center

The Patawomeck Tribe are located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The museum is open to the general public Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12 - 5 pm, and every first and third Saturday of the month from 10 am to 2 pm. For more information, contact [e-mail] or call [phone].

Book your visit to the museum here: Plan Your Visit | Patawomeck (patawomeckindiantribeofvirginia.org)
 

Rappahannock Tribe Virtual Museum

The Rappahannock Tribe, namesake of the Rappahannock river, has a virtual museum on its website. Step back in time with these pictures from the Tribe's history, showcasing the 20th century. The exhibit includes portraits of Tribal leaders and photographs from Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Jamestown. 

View the virtual museum here: Rappahannock Tribe Museum 2.0 – Rappahannock Indian Tribe

Details

Activity

Museum Exhibits

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Activity Fee

Yes

Various

Reservations

Yes

Call ahead to verify that the museums are open or to make a reservation.  

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Various, see websites above.