About
The Baptist Collection
*Selected art and artifacts are regularly on display in the VBHS Gallery.
Since the 19th century, the Virginia Baptist Historical Society has served as the trusted repository of Virginia Baptist churches (especially, but not limited to the Baptist General Association of Virginia). A significant emphasis is the Baptists’ role in securing full religious liberty for those of all faiths and none. Extensive congregational records and personal papers from the late 18th c. to the present provide unparalleled insights into the views, relationships, and actions of Baptists and their institutions in Virginia and beyond. These materials include:
Schedule a Research Appointment
To schedule a research appointment, please contact us through one of the two forms below.
Archives
Church and Associational Records
- Over 500 congregations represented (from 1762)
- Associational Records and Annuals of Virginia Baptists
- Baptist General Association of Virginia Annuals (1823-present)
Manuscripts & Personal Papers
Biographical Files
Photographs
Library
More than 20,000 volumes with particular strengths including:
- Histories of Local Churches
- Baptist and Virginia Baptist History
- Books by/about Virginia Baptists
- Hymnals
Rare Books
The Religious Herald (from 1828) – weekly periodical of Virginia Baptists
Various Denominational Periodicals
Art*
The Virginia Baptist History Mural by Sidney E. King (35 panels, oil)
Portraits of Baptist Leaders
Fowler’s Paintings and Models of Historic Virginia Churches
Artifacts*
Various articles including personal effects, furniture, missionary items related to or collected by Virginia Baptist individuals and organizations.
About
University Archives
The University of Richmond Archives is available to researchers by appointment and is administered by the Virginia Baptist Historical Society (VBHS). The focus of the University Archives (UA) is the history and culture of the University of Richmond; the contents of the collection reflect this emphasis. While complementary to one another, the Baptist Collection and University Archives remain separate and distinct collections.
Learn More
For more about researching the University Archives, contact VBHS.