Essex County Museum & Historical Society

Encore Presentation of "Colored Tourists Lodge at the Historic McGuire's Inn"
2025-09-20 14:00 - 15:00 UTC
Head over to the Essex High School’s Auditorium on Saturday, September 20th at 2:00 pm for an encore presentation of this locally written play about the historic McGuire’s Inn right here in Tappahannock!
Written by Tappahannock’s own Gina McGuire, who grew up in the McGuire’s Inn, this is a wonderful chance to support local theater and learn some local history!
Tickets are $20 each and will be available at the door.

Annual Fall Oyster Roast and Courtyard Party
2025-11-01 13:30 - 16:30
Join us on November 1st for the Annual Fall Oyster Roast and Courtyard Party!

2026-02-28 15:00 - 16:00
Essex / Middlesex Revolutionary War Panel Discussion

Curated Cocktails at the 1710 Tavern
2026-04-21 17:30 - 19:30 | 1710 Tavern, 314 S. Water Lane, Tappahannock, Virginia, 22560
Join us on Tuesday, April 21st at 5:30 pm for Curated Cocktails at the historic 1710 Tavern! It’s an evening of live music, artfully crafted bites, and handcrafted drinks, including our signature Curated Cocktail. Browse and bid on exclusive packages and prizes from local businesses in our Silent Auction, all while supporting your local Museum.

Whale of a Sale
2026-05-16 10:00 - 15:00
New this year, get ready for the first-ever Whale of a Sale, a unique fundraising event you won’t want to miss! On Saturday, May 16th from 10:00am to 3:00pm, browse a curated selection of antiques, vintage collectibles, furniture, artwork, home décor, and more. The best part? Every 45 minutes to an hour, an additional 10% discount is added to all sticker prices. The longer you browse, the more you save! All the proceeds from this event will go to help support the Essex County Museum and Historical Society. Come early for the best selection, or come late for the best deals. It’s a whale of a good time all in support of a great cause!
If you’d like to donate items for the sale, please check out the listed criteria. Donations will be accepted during regular Museum hours from May 5th–14th (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10-3). Donation receipts will be available.

DONATION CRITERIA
Accepted Items: Quality antiques, vintage collectibles, artwork, dressers, tables, chairs, bookshelves, cookware, lamps, mirrors, home décor, and working small appliances and electronics (all parts present). Donation receipts will be available at the Museum.

Condition: Items must be in “like-new” or excellent, gently used condition.
Cleanliness: Furniture must be free of stains, rips, tears, pet hair, and odors (smoke/pet).
Functionality: Small appliances and electronics must be in working order.
Completeness: All furniture parts (handles, drawers) must be present.

Items Not Accepted:• Damaged Items: Ripped, stained, broken, or water-damaged furniture.• Clothing: No clothing, towels, or linens• Oversized/Specific: Large entertainment centers, sleeper sofas, or mattresses.• Dangerous: Items that do not meet safety standards or have been recalled.• Materials: Particleboard items, construction materials, or items in poor condition.

If you have any quesitons about donations, please email the Museum at COMMUNICATIONS@ECMHS.ORG
