A required stop for Civil War buffs, this excellent museum houses the largest Confederate collection in the country, much contributed by veterans and their descendants. All the war's major events and campaigns are documented, and exhibits include period clothing and uniforms, a replica of Lee's headquarters, the role of African Americans in the Civil War, Confederate memorabilia, weapons, and art. The 1818 mansion next door was the wartime home of President Jefferson Davis. As the White House of the Confederacy, it was the center of social and political activity in Richmond. Formal dinners, luncheons, and occasional cabinet meetings were held in the dining room, a Victorian chamber with ornate ceiling decoration; some of the furniture in this room is original to the Davis family. The entrance hall is notable for its classical Comedy and Tragedy figures holding exquisite gas lamps. Guests were received in the center parlor, interesting now for its knickknacks produced by captured Confederate soldiers and for an 1863 portrait of Davis. You can explore the museum on your own, but you must take a guided tour (from the museum lobby) to see the house. Allow at least 2 hours for both. There is validated parking in Virginia Commonwealth University's medical center parking deck next door.
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planning your trip.
