Frequently Asked Questions

Are all of the properties on the archives maps considered “historic”? There are more than 2,000 structures, districts, bridges, objects, and sites in the Virginia Landmarks Register or the National Register of Historic Places, and roughly an equal number of Virginia properties and districts that have been considered eligible for inclusion in the registers by the Department of Historic Resources (DHR). However, the majority of the files are of properties that have been surveyed, but have not been officially evaluated by the department. Most of the files contain resource evaluations, photographs, and maps. Drawings, correspondence, newspaper clippings, and published and unpublished materials are also available in a number of the files. The files for the properties on the Virginia or national registers contain copies of their nomination forms. The department is also the principal repository for Virginia historic survey and archaeological reports. Databases and mapping for the files and reports are only available in the archives.

How are the properties selected for inclusion in DHR’s permanent collection? A statewide survey of buildings, districts, and sites is an ongoing responsibility of the department. Often working with local governments and private organizations, DHR assembles data, photographs, and maps for each property surveyed, with an emphasis on structures that are more than 50 years old. This material is then added to the department’s Archives. Similar files are also created on properties and sites surveyed as a result of planned construction projects. A search service is available for organizations seeking information on the presence of previously identified cultural resources within a project area.

Do the files contain historical photographs? Few historical photographs are included in DHR’s files. Since the department was formed as the Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission in 1966, virtually all of the photographs in the files have been produced by staff, surveyors, or residents. For more information on historical photographs and illustrations, please contact the Library of Virginia, the Virginia Historical Society, or the Richmond History Center (Valentine Museum).

Is genealogical information available in the files at DHR? Very little in the way of family histories will be found in the archives. DHR’s work is centered on the recognition, protection, and management of the structures, districts, and sites that make up Virginia’s cultural fabric. If genealogical information is contained in a file, it is only there to provide a fuller picture of the history behind the property. For more information on family histories, please contact the,  Virginia Historical Society, or the Richmond History Center (Valentine Museum).

Will the archives accept donations of new materials on a property? Yes. DHR is eager to accept new data to add to our permanent collection that will aid future researchers. Many of our surveys on properties were conducted decades ago, and updated information and photographs are always welcomed.
 

May books or reports be checked out of the DHR library? No. The DHR library is a working library for the department’s staff. As a result, the monographs and cultural resource management reports on our shelves do not circulate outside of the building. A copy machine is available for use by the public in the Archives’ reading room for a nominal fee.

Is information on a property or site accessible online? Not to the general public. Currently a researcher must visit the Archives in Richmond, or make alternative arrangements through the archivist to obtain records on file at DHR.

Does DHR have deeds, plats, and city directories among its files? Some are found within the files, but more complete collections may be found at the Library of Virginia in Richmond.
 

The Archives are located at the DHR central office at 2801 Kensington Avenue in Richmond Virginia. The Archives hours are 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. weekdays; closed on state holidays. No appointment is necessary to visit.


Terminals are available for visitors to access the DHR geographical information system.

Archival Research Main Page

Frequently Asked Questions About Archives  

Map & Directions

Archives Visitors' Guide

Archives Search Service

Policy on Digital Photography