About Us

In 1870, at the time of the first census, 153 African Americans aged 70 and older were living in Spotsylvania County. Those 153 American citizens are the ancestors of a large population of Spotsylvania County residences and a direct contributor to the continued growth and development.

 

No area partner agency can esthetically share the African American Experience to the public in the context as provided by John J. Wright Museum programing.  Established collaborations in the fulfillment of this project include national level contributions in the sharing of the rich history that is uniquely Spotsylvania, Virginia’s own.  Such collaborations are priceless, and vital to the growth and harmonious development in the region.  The Museum supports renewed public interest in local historic sites that provides insight into the growing narrative of the African American Experience. The Museum provides a unique resource for the history of the community, particularly about a sector of the population not usually considered.

 

The John J. Wright Museum is one of Spotsylvania County’s exceptional attractions and the African American Heritage Trail and the Replica One Room School provide a relationship with county tourism and the museum provides a personal connection to the heartbeat of the local African American community.

 

The museum is free and open to the public.  All special events, tours, and programming provide visitors with options of supporting the museum’s mission by membership, donations, or contributions.