One Stop. Two Museums.
Endless Discovery.
Discover
the stories, people, places, and moments that shaped Western Virginia. Explore two museums, historic collections, engaging exhibitions, and educational experiences that connect our community to its past—and inspire its future.
More Than A Museum
The Historical Society of Western Virginia preserves and shares the stories that define our region. Through the O. Winston Link Museum, Roanoke History Museum, historic collections, exhibitions, educational programs, and preservation initiatives, we connect people to the history and material culture that shaped western Virginia.
Whether you’re discovering local history for the first time, exploring with your family, researching the past, or supporting preservation efforts, there’s always something new to uncover.
Discover What's On View
Every exhibition offers a new perspective on western Virginia’s history. From nationally recognized photography to stories hidden in our collections, our exhibits connect visitors to the people and moments that continue to shape our region.
Current Exhibits
Explore Western Virginia's Stories
History lives in photographs, artifacts, architecture, and the stories passed from one generation to the next. Discover the museums, collections, and historic sites that preserve the people, places, and events that shaped our region.
Collections & Archives
History Lives In The Details
Our collections preserve the photographs, documents, artifacts, and personal stories that tell the story of western Virginia. Each object offers a glimpse into the lives, innovations, traditions, and experiences that shaped our communities.
Explore featured collection highlights and discover how everyday objects become extraordinary stories.
Something New to Discover
Explore featured collection highlights and discover how everyday objects become extraordinary stories.
History isn’t just preserved here—it’s experienced here.
Join us for exhibitions, lectures, family activities, community programs, special events, and opportunities to connect with the stories that define western Virginia.
Events
History Is Served
Join the Historical Society of Western Virginia for its annual fundraiser History is Served at Hotel Roanoke.
Music for the Museum: A Concert for Collections
A musical afternoon of classical and broadway favorites.
Learning ThroughDiscovery
From field trips and homeschool programs to teacher resources and community learning opportunities, HSWV helps learners of all ages connect with history in meaningful ways.
Our educational programs encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the people and places that shaped our region.
A Museum For Everyone
History belongs to all of us.
The Historical Society of Western Virginia is committed to creating welcoming, inclusive experiences for visitors of all abilities. Through accessibility resources, sensory accommodations, Museums for All participation, and specialized programming, we strive to ensure everyone can discover, learn, and connect.
Museums For All
Through Museums for All, visitors presenting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards receive free admission at the Historical Society, removing barriers for so everyone can experience our collections and exhibitions.
Learn more about our commitment to accessibilty and diversity.
Help Preserve Our Region's Story
The stories of western Virginia deserve to be preserved, shared, and celebrated for generations to come.
As a nonprofit organization, The Roanoke History & O. Winston Link Museums rely on the generosity of members, donors, sponsors, and community partners. Your support helps care for collections, create educational programs, preserve historic resources, and inspire future generations through meaningful experiences.
Tell us more
Let us know what brings you here
Discover the Stories That Shaped Western Virginia
From iconic photographs and historic artifacts to exhibitions, events, and educational programs, there’s always something waiting to be discovered.