About this place

The Augusta County Historical Society serves as a custodian of the rich and expansive history of Augusta County, Virginia. This region, once stretching to the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes, holds significant American narratives, from the clashes between Native Americans and pioneers to the contributions of Revolutionary War patriots. Visitors can discover the roles of notable figures like Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Cyrus McCormick, Woodrow Wilson, Robert E. Lee, and Stonewall Jackson, alongside artists like Grandma Moses and George Caleb Bingham. The society highlights connections to historical personalities such as Daniel Boone, Santa Anna, Charles Lindbergh, and even figures whose ancestral homes trace back to the county, like Eisenhower and Lincoln. The society delves into a wide array of historical events and connections. While the main content focuses on the broad historical significance of the county, the society also organizes unique, thematic experiences, such as the 'Shadows, Secrets, and Sin' guided tours at Staunton's historic Thornrose Cemetery. These evening tours offer an extraordinary glimpse into tragic, violent, and murderous stories from Staunton’s early history, focusing on real events that filled newspapers and courtrooms rather than ghost stories. The tours require appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as they last approximately an hour and proceed regardless of weather. These programs offer a different, darker perspective on local history, bringing to light lesser-known, yet compelling, narratives.