Research in the Archives
The archival collection details the history of the Jewish community in Richmond from its founding in 1789 through today. Documents, photographs, letters and other items have been donated to the Archives by individuals and Jewish organizations. The holdings include the records of the sixth Jewish congregation established in the United States, Kahol Kadosh Beth Shalome, and Congregation Beth Ahabah (its successor.) Additional collections include The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, Jewish Family Services, The Carole and Marcus Weinstein Jewish Community Center and Beth Sholom Lifecare Communities, plus other congregations, organizations and many individual families.
The archives receives frequent requests for information from museums and scholars working with Jewish and secular institutions across the nation as well as individuals tracing their roots and family histories.
Research Procedures
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10 am – 3 pm
Telephone: (804) 353-2668
Email: bama@bethahabah.org
Our staff is on hand to assist you with your research, whether you visit the archives in person or prefer to make your request long-distance. If you are planning to conduct research personally, please contact the archives directly to make an appointment. There is a $5 Research Fee per visit. Can’t visit the archives in person? We’ll be happy to conduct research on your behalf. The first 30 minutes are free, and additional time will be charged at a rate of $25 per hour. Copies can be made at $.20 each.
Photographic Usage Fees
Please contact the Archives directly for information on photographic reproduction and usage fees.
Jewish Burials Database
This database was made possible in part by a grant from the Genesis Fund of the Richmond Jewish Foundation to assist researchers in locating the burial places of Jewish individuals in the Central Virginia area. Visit the Burial Record Database here.
