About

Essex and its county seat, Tappahannock, lie on the beautiful Rappahannock River in Virginia's Middle Peninsula. The Essex County Museum houses a number of exhibits that include pre-historic through modern displays of life in Essex and on the Rappahannock River, with subjects ranging from John Smith's early explorations in the area, the colonial era and the American Revolution, and on through the Civil War, early 20th century, and the Civil Rights era. There's an exhibit on pirates who once sailed the waters (a favorite with kids), and one that showcases the navy oiler USS Tappahannock, which first saw service in World War II. In addition to these collections, the museum has a research room with a small library, the beautiful Max Silver Memorial Courtyard, and a Gift Shop with handcrafted jewelry, home accessories, art, books, children's toys and games, and more. Well worth the visit, the Museum is free to the public, and open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10am to 3pm.