Historical Society of Western Virginia

The Historical Society of Western Virginia exists to promote an interest in the broad spectrum of history with emphasis on that of southwestern Virginia; to collect, preserve, interpret, and make available materials relating to that history; to sponsor research and publication in the field of regional history; and to provide educational services to people and institutions throughout southwestern Virginia.

Through several names and locations, driven by the good work of dozens of volunteers, the Historical Society of Western Virginia has recorded the history of Roanoke city and county and neighboring counties since its founding in 1957, stemming from Roanoke Citys 75th birthday, a Diamond Jubilee. The Society has grown into a major partner in Center in the Square in downtown Roanoke and a leader in Western Virginia historical circles. The late Edmund P. Goodwin, a founding father of the Society, was its first president. Established in 1957, the Historical Society promotes an interest in a broad spectrum of history with emphasis on that of southwestern Virginia. It collects, preserves, interprets and makes available materials relating to that history. Its mission is making yesterday available todayinspiring tomorrow. The Historical Society operates the History Museum of Western Virginia, the O. Winston Link Museum, the Crystal Spring Pump Station and Kegley Publications. Through its entities, it works with area schools and colleges to provide educational services to adults, secondary students and younger children throughout southwestern Virginia.