Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, Richmond (must see)

The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, located in the Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond, is a tribute to the remarkable life and achievements of Maggie L. Walker, an influential African-American businesswoman and civil rights activist. Established as a National Historic Landmark in 1975 and a National Historic Site in 1978, it includes Walker's well-preserved home, which is furnished with her original belongings and other period pieces from the 1920s and 1930s.

Situated north of downtown Richmond, the historic site encompasses six buildings on the north side of East Leigh Street. Most of these buildings retain early 20th-century exteriors while their interiors serve various functions for the National Park Service, such as housing a museum, visitor center, and curatorial spaces.

The centerpiece of the site is the Maggie Walker House, a two-story Victorian Gothic brick rowhouse. It features a Colonial Revival porch and a sunroom, creating a picturesque setting. The house showcases a rich collection of Walker's personal effects and serves as a vivid museum dedicated to her life and work.

Maggie Walker, born to a former slave, rose to become a prominent figure in her community. She was the first woman in the United States to serve as a bank president, founding Saint Luke's Penny Bank in 1902. Walker was also a key member of the NAACP and devoted much of her efforts to initiatives such as supporting educational institutions for African-American girls in Richmond.

Today, the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site not only preserves the legacy of a pioneering woman but also educates visitors about her contributions to civil rights and the African-American community. Tours of the Walker home are conducted by National Park Service rangers, offering a deep dive into the life and impact of this remarkable leader.