Tourist in Your Own Backyard

Giles Historical Society & Museum Announces Expansion

Giles County, VA– The Fall Board meeting of the Giles County Historical Society marked another moment in history for the local museum and the Giles County community. The Board approved the funds to design and construct a new building on the grounds of the museum complex located at 208 North Main Street, Pearisburg, VA. The new building will boast 1,000 square feet of display and interpretative area. The façade will resemble a barn and have a large door that can be opened to encourage visitors to step inside, and step back in history. Another door leading straight into the existing museum space will allow guests to stroll between all buildings on their visit to the Andrew Johnston House.

An anticipated completion date is slated for spring 2017. The building will be erected behind the current museum on the flat parcel just off of the parking lot for easy access once on the grounds. Inside will feature large agricultural equipment and other historically significant vehicles currently housed downstairs at the museum. The Barn will give visitors a look at the equipment and a part of life in Southwest Virginia from days past.

The ability to expand the space available for curated displays will also allow for the continued success of the John K. Hale Lecture Series and other events. At current capacity the museum holds 35 to 40 people for the lectures, with the growing crowds, the goal is host 75 or more in the downstairs area for the monthly educational talks. There will also be opportunities to expand displays to the downstairs once floor space is freed up from the Barn’s completion. This expansion comes in the same news that a new tour option has been made available to visitors of the house, using smartphones and UniGuide technology. The Johnston House is the first museum in the New River Valley to offer this audio tour of the historic house.

For more information on the Andrew Johnston House and events hosted by the Giles County Historical Society visit them online at www.gilescountyhistory.org. You can also visit with them Wednesday through Friday noon to 5pm, or Saturday and Sunday from 2-5pm.

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For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.