 
Come and step back in time at Richmond’s own 18th century James River Plantation house. Situated on a bluff overlooking the James River, Wilton is an impressive example of Colonial American architecture and is a superb essay in Georgian design. Built in circa 1753 for William Randolph III, Wilton was the centerpiece of a 2,000 acre tobacco plantation and home to the Randolph family for more than a century. It was here that they entertained George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and the Marquis de Lafayette.
Due to the industrialization of the surrounding area, Wilton was purchased and carefully moved to its current site by the Virginia Society of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in 1933. Opened to the public in 1952, Wilton today plays host to an exquisite collection of 18th- and 19th- centuries furnishings, textiles, glass, ceramics, and silver that reflect the “planter” lifestyle of the mid-18th century.
BRING THE FAMILY.
Looking for summer fun and a learning experience? Check our Youth and Family Programs, guaranteed fun learning for the kids! Browse our School Programs.
FRIENDS OF WILTON
Please help us to continue the important preservation and education work at Wilton by becoming a Friend of Wilton. The Friends of Wilton is a support organization, helping Wilton and the NSCDA-VA to preserve and interpret the historic house. All Friends of Wilton receive free admission to the site, receive news about lectures, events and programs, and help support one of Richmond's special resources. Please call 804-282-5936 Ext. 2 for more information on how to join. Document of Agreement
Benefits Include:
• Free admission to the museum
• Invitations to programs and events
• Annual calendar mailer
• 10% discount in shop |
WHAT'S NEW AT THE WILTON HOUSE MUSEUM?
Keep up-to-date with our Current and Upcoming Exhibits. We are proud to display two portraits on loan from the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery.
We also have two original portraits in our collection, one by Charles Bird King, and the other by John Wollaston.
These images chronicle the 18th century use of portraiture as a means of self promotion.
VALUES STATEMENT
The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Virginia , as owner and manager of Wilton House Museum , is committed to maintaining it as an institution accredited by the American Association of Museums, and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of Museum policies and historical scholarship.
MUSEUM MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Wilton House Museum is to preserve the circa 1753 historic house, its collections, and environs; as an example of the late Colonial and early National periods in Virginia by sharing the stories of those who contributed to the history of Wilton Plantation during the first three generations of Wilton Randolphs.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
Wilton House Museum's purpose is to provide educational experiences which engage the public with the late Colonial and early National periods of Virginia history and lifestyles, while focusing on the historic figures who contributed to the history of Wilton, and to preserve the circa 1753 historic plantation house and its supporting collections. The NSCDA-VA and museum staff are dedicated to serving a diverse audience by carrying out the above goals through accurately interpreting the house and providing programs that offer a variety of learning experiences and enhance educational opportunities to all visitors.
Adopted by the Board of Managers, March 9, 2006
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