Artifact Collections

Explore objects that tell Hanover’s story—everyday tools, textiles, photographs, and community treasures preserved for study and exhibition.

Overview

What We Collect

Our artifact collections document life in Hanover County and surrounding communities—from homes and farms to schools, businesses, and places of worship.

Items are preserved to support exhibits, education, and research. If you’re looking for a specific object type or want to learn how to access materials, we’re happy to help by email.

Request Research Help
Vintage library card catalog drawer representing organized collections
Antique hand tools representing material culture collections
Highlights

Collection Areas

Representative areas of our holdings include:

Photographs & ephemera

Textiles & clothing

Household & farm tools

Military & civic items

Email the Collections Team

A small sampling of object types commonly represented in our collections. Availability varies; please contact us for current access and exhibit information.

Close-up of hand-stitched textile detail
Archival card catalog and paper records
Library card catalog drawer with records
Old hand tools on a work surface
Museum gallery interior
Cabinet with labeled drawers suggesting curated storage

Tell us what you’re researching and what types of objects you’re hoping to find. We’ll confirm what’s available and the best next steps for access.

Start a Research Request

By appointment

Hanover, Virginia