Virginia Baptist Historical Society

VBHS
For ResearchersCollections
Founded in 1876

About Us

The Virginia Baptist Historical Society (VBHS) is among oldest and largest of the state Baptist historical organizations in the United States. Since its inception, the stated object of VBHS remains, “To Discover, Procure and Preserve Whatever May Relate to the History of Christianity and to the BAPTIST DENOMINATION OF VIRGINIA In Particular.”

As a repository, it consists of the archives, library, art and artifacts reflecting the history of Virginia Baptists from their beginnings (1715) to the present. Through its historic relationships, especially with the churches and agencies of the Baptist General Association of Virginia (1823), the Society has accrued significant holdings across its nearly 150-year role in the field. VBHS maintains its own collections, staff, programming and publishing. It is governed by a twenty-person self-perpetuating Executive Committee drawn from the VBHS membership.

VBHS stands as a distinct non-profit entity and is able to realize its mission through the ongoing generosity of its supporters.

We welcome scholars, writers, churches, and community researchers from across the world. VBHS is a member of the American Alliance of Museums and the Virginia Association of Museums.

Contact Us

For research inquiries or to arrange a gallery tour please contact us.