The Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center

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The Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center The Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center honors the legacy of Joseph Thomas Newsome At the turn of the 20th century, the J.

Thomas Newsome family moved to Newport News. In this industrial city, he established a law practice and prospered as part of the postwar South's new urban, black middle class. Through self-determination and a solid education, Newsome (1869-1942) became a respected attorney, journalist, churchman, and civic leader. His elegant Queen Anne residence served as the hub of the local black community from which he led the fight for social justice within the commonwealth. Today, this restored 1899 Victorian landmark continues to be devoted to the expression of black cultural and historical themes. The public is invited to use this facility to learn of the past, examine current issues, and celebrate life's milestones.

A great video on Newsome House and community history!
08/13/2026

A great video on Newsome House and community history!

Friends, it was ✨ 250 Years Ago Today ✨A bold experiment began when representatives of the 13 colonies made a promise t...
07/04/2026

Friends, it was ✨ 250 Years Ago Today ✨

A bold experiment began when representatives of the 13 colonies made a promise that still resonates.

They “mutually pledged to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor” in order to bring about a new nation and a future they could only imagine.

As we reflect on this milestone, may we remember the power of standing together for something greater than ourselves.

Here’s to 250 years of resilience, vision, and the ongoing work of shaping a more perfect union.

The Newsome House will be closed on Friday, June 19, but we will be welcoming guests as usual on Saturday at 10am. Happy...
06/18/2026

The Newsome House will be closed on Friday, June 19, but we will be welcoming guests as usual on Saturday at 10am. Happy Juneteenth!

250 REWIND | Free Museum Admission All July Long Celebrate 250 years of American freedom by exploring the stories, peopl...
06/16/2026

250 REWIND | Free Museum Admission All July Long

Celebrate 250 years of American freedom by exploring the stories, people, and places that shaped our nation and community. Throughout the month of July, enjoy FREE admission to participating Newport News museums and historic sites, including the Virginia War Museum, Historic Endview, Lee Hall Mansion, Lee Hall Depot, and the Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center.

Step back in time, discover local history, and join us in commemorating America's 250th anniversary.

📅 July 1–31, 2026
🎟️ Free Admission

🏛️ Five Historic Sites • One Historic Celebration










🌍 Happy International Museum Day! Today we celebrate the power of museums to inspire curiosity, preserve history, and co...
05/18/2026

🌍 Happy International Museum Day!

Today we celebrate the power of museums to inspire curiosity, preserve history, and connect our community to the stories that shape our world. From local heritage to global history, museums are spaces where learning comes to life for visitors of all ages.

Discover, explore, and experience history up close at Newport News’ premier local museums and historical sites.

🕰️ Sites and Hours:

🎖Virginia War Museum
Wednesday–Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM

🏡 Newsome House & Lee Hall Depot
Friday & Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM

🏡 Lee Hall Mansion & Historic Endview
Wednesday–Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM

We look forward to seeing you!

Happy Armed Forces Day!Happy Armed Forces Day! Today, we honor the brave men and women who serve and protect our nation....
05/16/2026

Happy Armed Forces Day!

Happy Armed Forces Day! Today, we honor the brave men and women who serve and protect our nation. Their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to freedom make a difference every single day. Join us in saying thank you to all who wear the uniform.

To explore the powerful stories, artifacts, and exhibits that highlight this incredible history of military service, visit the Virginia War Museum today.

Museum Hours:
• Wednesday – Sunday: 9 AM – 4 PM
• Closed Monday and Tuesday

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate a woman whose journey began right here in Newport News.Before she became a nati...
03/07/2026

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate a woman whose journey began right here in Newport News.

Before she became a national civil rights advocate, Jacqueline Jackson — then Jacqueline Brown — was a student at Huntington High School, Class of 1961.

From her Newport News roots to decades of community service and civil rights leadership alongside Rev. Jesse Jackson, she has supported economic empowerment initiatives, voter registration efforts, and programs that uplift underserved communities across the nation.

Her story reminds us that the legacy of strong women begins in local classrooms and grows into national impact.

Newport News women have always been part of shaping history.

Do you know a Newport News woman who helped shape our community? Tell us in the comments.

Celebrate the March 3 birthday of the United States Navy Reserve. Established in 1915, the Navy Reserve has played a vit...
03/03/2026

Celebrate the March 3 birthday of the United States Navy Reserve. Established in 1915, the Navy Reserve has played a vital role in national defense, supporting active-duty forces in wartime and peacetime operations. Honor the legacy of citizen Sailors who continue to serve with strength and dedication.

02/03/2026

Happy Black History Month, Newport News!

Our city’s rich history lives in the stories, culture, and contributions that have shaped our community. Experience that history through programs and events happening all month.

🎨 Art workshops & cultural crafts
đź“– History talks & storytelling
🍽️ Food experiences rooted in Black culture
🎭 Family-friendly performances
🚊 Guided tours & interactive exhibits

Whether you’re visiting Historic Endview or Lee Hall Mansion, exploring local history through the Visit Newport News African American Cultural Experiences (AACE) tour, or attending workshops and performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.

Follow Newport News Public Library, Newport News Historic Sites, and Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center to see their programming and events.

Photo of the Until Freedom Comes exhibit at Main Street Library. Thank you to the Virginiana Room for providing the photo!

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.Today we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose courage,...
01/19/2026

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Today we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose courage, faith, and commitment to justice continue to inspire generations. At the Newsome House, we recognize the enduring impact of his dream on communities past and present.

A legacy that continues to inspire.

Address

2803 Oak Avenue
Newport News, VA
23607

Opening Hours

Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm

Telephone

(757) 247-2360

Website

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