Celebrating 25 years of discovery.

Join us as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Virginia Museum of Natural History during a year-long celebration in 2009.

The Museum was founded on August 28, 1984 as The Boaz Foundation, a private institution. Guided by a group of scholars and citizens from throughout the Commonwealth, The Boaz Foundation soon became the Virginia Museum of Natural History. Recognizing the need for public support, A. L. Philpott, then Speaker of the Virginia General Assembly, worked on behalf of the institution in an effort to secure state agency status in 1988.

Since its founding, VMNH has experienced phenomenal growth, and has earned recognition as one of the nation's leading museums in its field. It is accredited by the American Association of Museums, a distinction earned by fewer than 10% of museums in the United States.

Don't miss exciting events, spectacular exhibits, special publications, and fun family festivals during the Museum's 25th Anniversary in 2009

Evolution of a Museum: VMNH at 25 - special exhibit opening December 13
This special exhibit opens December 13, 2008 in The Harvest Foundation of the Piedmont Great Hall, and celebrates the Museum's first 25 years.

Special 25th Anniversary Commemorative Newsletter
Don't miss the Winter 2009 (January 1, 2009) newsletter with a special section highlighting the Museum's Silver Anniversary.

25th Anniversary Speaker Series
The Museum will host a speaker series as part of the 25th Anniversary Celebration. Speakers to be announced.

VMNH Foundation Silver Anniversary Gala - May 2, 2009
The VMNH Foundation's Silver Anniversary Gala will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009. Don't miss this spectacular event celebrating 25 years of discovery at the Virginia Museum of Natural History. Learn more.

Founders Day Celebration - August 28, 2009
The Museum will host a Founders Day Celebration as part of its 25th Anniversary in 2009. Founders Day will include free admission and behind-the-scenes access to visitors. Founders Day will also include guest lecturers and speakers, along with an evening celebration for current/past staff members, volunteers, and current/past board members and trustees.