Hampton Roads Naval Museum

After Hours History

Meet the authors, hear their stories, learn history, and enjoy a wine and cheese reception during these free after-hours socials. Reservations required. Call 757-322-3109.  After Hours History is co-sponsored by the Hampton Roads Council of the Navy League.

The Treason of Mary Louvestre, by My Haley

On the 150th Anniversary of USS Cumberland’s sinking Thursday, March 8, 6-8pm Join in the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Hampton Roads. Dr. My Haley, widow of author Alex Haley, who helped write the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Roots, will speak about her new historical novel, The Treason of Mary Louvestre. This book is based on the true story of a former slave-turned-spy who provided detailed information about the CSS Virginia to Navy Secretary Gideon Welles during the American Civil War.

 In addition to Haley’s talk and book-signing, the Battle of Hampton Roads watercolor contest participants’ art will also be shown during this event. Click here for a registration form!

Behind Closed Doors: Graphic Novels and the U.S. Navy

Thursday, September 20, 6-8pm

 During the past several years, the U.S. Navy has started to use graphic novels as a way to communicate—first to the Japanese people regarding the stationing of nuclear aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) in Japan—and more recently to teach Navy corpsmen how to deal with the stress of combat deployments. This program will explore the reasons the Navy chose to use graphic novels as teaching tools. 

Join us for a series of powerful presentations that focus on Naval History. The cost of each lecture is $15.00 for members and $20.00 for non-members. Reservations will be required. Call 757-322-3109.

J. Michael Cobb, “Fort Wool: Star-Spangled Banner Rising”

Wednesday, April 18, 11:30am

J. Michael Cobb, curator at the Hampton History Museum, will provide a look into the development of Fort Wool. Fort Wool, now a quiet historical landmark, has been witness to some of the most influential figures and events in American history. Originally named for John C. Calhoun, Andrew Jackson walked the ramparts as he retreated from the bustle and politics of Washington.   Abraham Lincoln later directed the shelling and invasion of nearby Norfolk during the Civil War, and guarded one of the country’s most important harbors in two world wars.

Tours

Tours of Naval Station Norfolk

The museum and its foundation are co-sponsors of bus tours of Naval Station Norfolk. The 45-mintue tour is conducted by Naval personnel. Visitors will have an opportunity to see several different types of warships and one of the busiest airfields in the country. The tour also features historic homes from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children 3-11 and senior citizens over the age of 60. A photo ID is required. Tour busses are not handicapped accessible. Go to Naval Station Norfolk's website for more information.