Our History & Vision
History of FAM
For almost four decades, the Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM) has preserved, interpreted and shared the stories, artifacts, and cultural heritage of Fredericksburg and the surrounding region.
Located in the historic Town Hall/Market House, a landmark dating to 1816, FAM serves as a steward of our shared history and a gathering place for the community—connecting people to the stories that have shaped our region and continue to shape it today.
Through exhibitions, programs, events, and its growing collection, FAM brings together diverse perspectives and experiences to deepen our understanding of the past, bring the community together in celebration of our present, and work together to impact our collective futures.
Our Mission
Our vision is for FAM to be the region’s leading steward of its history and a vibrant gathering place for its civic and cultural life—connecting the stories of our past to the community we are becoming.
The Future of FAM
FAM stands at an exciting moment in its history.
As Fredericksburg and the surrounding region continue to grow and evolve, so too does the opportunity for the Museum: to welcome new audiences, tell more of our community’s stories, and deepen our role in the civic and cultural life of the region.
Our collection will remain at the heart of what we do, providing the foundation for exhibitions and experiences that connect local history to the broader American story. At the same time, we will continue to explore new ways to bring people together through history, culture, conversation, and community.
As we look toward FAM’s next chapter, our goal is both simple and ambitious: to preserve the stories that brought us here while creating a Museum that belongs to—and reflects—the community we are becoming.
