Tidewater Regional Meet-up in Chesapeake, VA

History, Community & Stories of the Dismal Swamp

Friday, October 2, 2026 | 4:00–7:00 PM
Historical Village at the Dismal Swamp
5221 Glencoe Street | Chesapeake, VA 23322

Join the Virginia Association of Museums (VAM) for an engaging Regional Meet-Up at the Historical Village at the Dismal Swamp in Chesapeake! Connect with museum and cultural professionals from across the region while exploring a site that brings together generations of history, community stories, and innovative interpretation.

The Historical Village at the Dismal Swamp presents the stories of the many people and communities connected to this remarkable landscape. From the Indigenous peoples who first inhabited the region and the extractive efforts of early colonists to the unique communities established by people of African descent, the Dismal Swamp has long served as an important crossroads for trade, commerce, migration, and community.

During the meet-up, participants will hear from Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism staff about the development and interpretation of the Historical Village and from Riggs Ward, the exhibit design team that helped bring the site's stories to life. The program will also feature interviews with alumni of the historic Cornland School, providing an opportunity to hear firsthand memories and experiences connected to this important local landmark.

Attendees will have an opportunity for a guided tour of the Cornland School and some time to explore the six-acre Historical Village, located at the five-mile mark of the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail. The site includes the Visitor Center and Museum Galleries, Cornland School Museum, Maroon Communities Exhibit, Underground Railroad Passage to Freedom Exhibit, and access to the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail.

Small bites and drinks will be available to attendees during the program.

At 6:00 PM, we will relocate to Tap It Local, located at 648 Grassfield Parkway, for additional opportunities to socialize and network with colleagues. Attendees will also have the option to order food while continuing the conversation and connecting with fellow museum and cultural professionals.

Come ready to explore, learn, connect, and exchange ideas with colleagues from across the region while discovering how Chesapeake is preserving and sharing the diverse histories of the Dismal Swamp.

Regional Meet-up Sponsored by

Regional Meet-Ups are a great opportunity to experience cultural sites firsthand, learn from colleagues, build new connections, and strengthen Virginia's museum and cultural community.