Emancipation Proclamation and Freedom Monument
As part of its commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and abolition of slavery in the United States, the Virginia Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Commission will construct the Emancipation Proclamation and Freedom Monument on Brown’s Island in downtown Richmond. The Virginia Capitol Foundation serves as the Commission’s fiscal agent.
The Virginia Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Commission will host a fundraiser at Virginia Union University on Saturday, January 18, 2020, to raise funds for the Emancipation and Freedom Monument. The monument, dedicated to the contributions of African American Virginians in
the fight for freedom, is scheduled for completion on Browns Island in 2020.
The Virginia Women’s Monument
The Virginia Women’s Monument, Voices from the Garden, acknowledges the brave, creative and wise contributions of Virginian women. The monument is a metaphor for the often unrecognized voices that have been responsible for shaping our culture, country and Commonwealth for more than 400 years. Its thought-provoking presence complements the traditional heroic monuments that have long stood on Capitol Square. Voices from the Garden honors 12 notable Virginians through an installation composed of historically accurate sculptural representations, designed by Ivan Schwartz of StudioEIS in Brooklyn, N.Y.
The Virginia Indian Monument
The Virginia Indian Monument In partnership with the Virginia Capitol Foundation, the Virginia Indian Commemorative Commission led the installation of the Virginia Indian Tribute on Capitol Square. This monument, entitled Mantle, recognizes the lasting legacy and significance of American Indians in the Commonwealth. The Virginia Indian Tribute is a meditation space where visitors can either walk the labyrinth or sit and contemplate. As a communal area, Mantle creates a respectful relationship with the surrounding natural world, reflecting the positive values which set the Indians apart from other cultures. Mantle is designed by Alan Michelson, a New York-based artist and Mohawk member of Six Nations of the Grand River.
Capitol Art Collection
An extensive collection of paintings and sculptures are housed in the Capitol, around Capitol Square, and in the Executive Mansion. The Foundation is committed to restoring and conserving this valuable collection as part of the rich history of Virginia. Most recently, the Foundation welcomed the latest addition to the State Capitol’s treasures: a porthole portrait of George Washington (giclée print) by Rembrant Peale (ca. 1852).
The Executive Mansion Silver Restoration
The Virginia Capitol Foundation is helping to raise funds to support the conservation of the Battleship USS Virginia silver service, a treasure of the Commonwealth’s collection of fine and decorative art. As one of the Mansion’s most valued appointments, this cherished fifty-piece heirloom now requires conservation for its long-term care.
Educational Programs and Exhibits
With more than 120,000 visitors to our State Capitol each year, we want to help showcase this amazing asset right here in our own town. To adequately tell the story of Virginia’s role among the Colonies in the New World, as well as Virginia’s current role in our nation, the Capitol Foundation develops story-telling materials, educational programs, exhibits and lectures at the Capitol.
Restoration of Capitol Square
In coordination with the Capitol Square Preservation Council, the completion of the 2004 Landscape Master Plan will help restore of the oldest enclosed public parks in our nation and recapture the 19th century design components of noted landscape architects Godefroy and Notman.
Capitol Visitor Experience Initiative
A joint effort with the Capitol Square Preservation Council, this “way-finding” project led by C&G Partners will create a unified, comprehensive approach for visitors across Capitol Square that is educational, innovative and interactive. Special projects supported by the Virginia Capitol Foundation