Museum Reopens in Expanded Facilities
The two year expansion and renovation of the Jackson Memorial Hall is done and the VMI Museum has reopened in its new home. Although the permanent exhibits are not in yet, there's still plenty to see.
Cadet attendants greet visitors when they enter the renovated 1916 Jackson Memorial Hall on the auditorium level. A new elevator brings guest to the museum located on the 200 level of the building.
The 3000 square foot main exhibit gallery will house the permanent exhibit: The VMI Heritage which will be installed alter in 2007. Currently, a temporary exhibit features rare and unique artifacts from the VMI collection: the uniform "Stonewall" Jackson was wearing when he was mortally wounded; George Patton's shiny helmet; "Little Sorrel, the mounted hide of Jackson's war horse and the POW items used by LTC Jim Berger during 6 1/2 years in Vietnam. An exact replica of a modern cadet room has been created to give a glimpse into cadet life.
Over the summer of 2009 work will continue on the 100 level of the museum where two additional permanent exhibits will be located: the world renown Henry Stewart Antique Firearm Collection and an exhibit on the important role VMI alumni have played in American history. Individuals such as Admiral Richard Byrd, Medal of Honor recipient, and "Chesty" Puller, the most decorated Marine in history will be featured. This exhibit is expected to open in 2010.
New collection holding areas, complete with Spacesaver storage equipment, was also included in the renovation. The Jackson Memorial Hall project cost approximately $3.3 million.
Images of the construction
