The Virginia Society
Preserving our national heritage through education, preservation and patriotic service.
Our Mission
The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Virginia actively promotes our national heritage through statewide historic preservation, patriotic service and educational projects especially at Wilton House Museum.
Our Work
Historical Preservation
Patriotic Service
Education
Recent News
Gunston Hall Celebrates George Mason’s 300th Birthday
As 2026 and our Country’s 250th birthday begins, let us remember that NSCDA oversees Gunston Hall, the home of George Mason. Without him, we would not enjoy the rights that we have today. His 300th birthday was celebrated in December 2025. Individual donor names will be added to a giant birthday card to be displayed at Gunston Hall during America’s 250th!
Upcoming Events
Wilton House Lecture Series
Join us for another great year of fascinating lectures that provide unique insights and knowledge.
Jammin on the James
Thank you to all who joined us in 2025. Stay tuned for details on the 2026 season.
Our Core Values
We are committed to the preservation and restoration of our tangible heritage.
We are dedicated to educating the American public– especially our youth– about our nation’s early history and its relevance to today.
We continually reinterpret our collections to explore relevant cultural issues.
We value the study and teaching of history and how it affects the present and the future.
We strive to stimulate a spirit of true patriotism and love of country.
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professional and ethical museum practices and historical scholarship.
We are dedicated to the highest level of conduct in our relationships with each other and in our management of the Society.
We strive to be an educational and cultural resource for the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia and beyond.
Our History
Founded in 1892, the Virginia Society is part of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA).
We have a proud tradition of service to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia, as well as a remarkable historic house and a collection of objects, memorials, markers and genealogical records.
Wilton House Museum, its collection and our genealogical records are the tools we use to fulfill our mission. With these tools, we serve our members and the community with educational programs and activities. It is our obligation to ensure the security, preservation, conservation, and appropriate interpretation of these tools.
We, the members, gain inspiration and knowledge through offering the public opportunities to learn about history in an accurate, balanced and honest manner, and to be inspired by our common heritage. We are the stewards of an organization with a record of longevity and stability, and we are compelled to protect its dignity, credibility and vitality.
