The Egyptian Building · Medical College of Virginia
Medical College of Virginia
You are now in the center of the buildings of the Medical College of Virginia which cover several city blocks. Particularly notable is the concrete building on your right at the end of the block which is stated to be “the most perfect example of Egyptian architecture in America.” Erected in 1845, it is the earliest in the Medical College group. This is one of the oldest medical schools in the South and the only one to remain open during the War Between the States. The buildings now composing the Medical College group afford not only an imposing sight but with their facilities contribute greatly to the importance of Richmond as one of the leading medical centers of the country. ¶ Circle block to right, returning to Twelfth. Proceed north on Twelfth two blocks to Clay, turn right on Clay.
Confederate Museum
Confederate Museum (White House of the Confederacy)
This building, now the Confederate Museum, was the White House of the Confederacy from 1861-65. Here lived President Jefferson Davis. Here came the generals to confer, the couriers bearing news of the various battles. Most fittingly, the women of the South have made this a treasure-house of things Confederate. In the museum you may now see the uniforms, swords, camp chest and multitudinous relics of Generals Robert E. Lee, Thomas J. (“Stonewall”) Jackson, Joseph E. Johnston, J. E. B. Stuart and most of the other Confederate heroes. The student of that phase of our history finds here invaluable historical papers and files. ¶ Make a U-turn and proceed west on Clay to Eleventh.
Valentine Museum
This Museum of the Life and History of Richmond, founded by Mann S. Valentine and opened in 1898, now includes four 19th century buildings. The Wickham-Valentine House, designed by Robert Mills in 1812, is a notable example of late Georgian architecture, with furnishings of that period and of 1853, and with a walled garden that is restful and beautiful in all seasons. The adjoining Museum building contains a growing collection of permanent Richmond exhibits and the largest costume department in the south. The Indian collection emphasizes archaeological material from Virginia and North Carolina. Changing exhibitions illustrate past and present city activities and interests. Facing the garden is the Studio of the sculptor, Edward V. Valentine. The Bransford-Cecil Memorial House, in the Greek Revival style of the 1840’s, contains a gallery-lecture room; a Research Library, with extensive pictorial material illustrating Richmond’s history; and the School Services’ office and workrooms, where two staff members carry on an organized statewide program of lectures, loans, and special projects for children. ¶ Proceed west on Clay to Eighth, turn left Eighth to Marshall, turn left on Marshall.
