Valentine’s schedule of Fan-area walking tours for 2012

The Valentine Richmond History Center has announced their full line-up of walking and bus tours for 2012. Here are some of the most local of walking tours: June 3 Carytown and the Byrd Theatre, Revisited (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR From buffalo trail to streetcar suburb, Carytown’s fascinating story is the focus of this tour as you […]

March 7, 2012; 10:07 AM • by Fan of the Fan

The Valentine Richmond History Center has announced their full line-up of walking and bus tours for 2012. Here are some of the most local of walking tours:

June 3 Carytown and the Byrd Theatre, Revisited (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR
From buffalo trail to streetcar suburb, Carytown’s fascinating story is the focus of this tour as you explore this “mile of style”. Includes Cary Court Shopping Center, restored to its 1930’s art deco splendor, and a “behind the scenes” tour of the Byrd Theatre (1928), one of the few active movie palaces in the country. Meet at Premiere Costumes, 3339 W. Cary Street.

June 14 Monument Avenue (6-7:30pm) WALKING TOUR
The first street in the U.S. to be designated as a National Landmark by the National Park Service, Monument Avenue is one of America’s most beautiful boulevards. Learn about the diverse architectural styles of its grand homes, its famous residents and renowned architects. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.

July 4 I Know Richmond: The Bus Tour (10am-1pm) BUS TOUR
An overview of the history of Richmond, including Court End, the James River and the Fall Line, Church Hill, Jackson Ward, the Fan and Monument Avenue. Tour drives by St. John’s Church, Hollywood Cemetery, Main Street Station, the Jefferson Hotel and the Museum and White House of the Confederacy. Tour the State Capitol, walk Capitol Square and see the Civil Rights Memorial. Reservations required: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the History Center.

July 15 The Fan (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR
Named for its distinctive shape, the fashionable Fan District boasts beautifully restored homes, churches, schools and businesses that all thrive in this community today. Learn about the luminaries who have called it home and the architectural details that make it unique and timeless. Tour begins at the West Franklin Preservation Zone. Meet your guide at 700 W. Franklin Street.

Aug. 19 NEW! Richmond’s Recycled Neighborhood (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR
In the early 1900’s as the German population of Jackson Ward moved westward, they settled in an area that was once home to Richmond College. Over the years this residential neighborhood expanded to include the commercial district on Broad St., now home for many VCU students. Meet at the corner of Grace and Lombardy streets.

Sept. 15 History Hounds Explore The Fan (10am-12pm) WALKING TOUR
Dogs are invited to join their owners for this walking tour of The Fan, in partnership with the SPCA. Dogs must have current shots, mix well with others and remain on a leash. Owners are responsible for water and cleaning up after their dogs. Space is limited. Reservations required: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at 700 W. Franklin Street.

Sept. 16 The Museum District (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR
The founding of the Confederate soldiers home initiated the residential development of the area known today as the Museum District. Home to the Virginia Historical Society, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, schools, businesses, churches and residences, this area played an important role in the westward expansion of the city. Meet at the northeast corner of Grove Avenue and Sheppard Street.

Sept. 30 Carytown and the Byrd Theatre, Revisited (2-4pm) WALKING TOUR
From buffalo trail to streetcar suburb, Carytown’s fascinating story is the focus of this tour as you explore this “mile of style”. Includes Cary Court Shopping Center, restored to its 1930’s art deco splendor, and a “behind the scenes” tour of the Byrd Theatre (1928), one of the few active movie palaces in the country. Meet at Premiere Costumes, 3339 W. Cary Street.

Oct. 20 NEW! History Hounds Explore Monument Ave. (10am-12pm) WALKING TOUR
Dogs are invited to join their owners for this walking tour of Monument Ave., in partnership with the SPCA. Dogs must have current shots, mix well with others and remain on a leash. Owners are responsible for water and cleaning up after their dogs. Space is limited. Reservations required: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.

Dec. 26 & 27 Holiday Glitter: Monument Avenue After Dark (6-7:30pm) WALKING TOUR
Our most popular walking tour! Enjoy the lights and glitter of Monument Avenue while it’s decked out for the holidays. This early evening stroll combines history with a touch of glitz! Dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight. Reservations required: (804) 649-0711 x301. Meet at the Lee Monument at Allen and Monument avenues.

March 7, 2012 10:07 AM 0