History Belongs to Everyone

Why We Keep Our Doors Open to Everyone, for Free

Museums are more than buildings filled with artifacts; they are living, breathing spaces where culture, history, and art connect us to our shared humanity. At the Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM), we believe those connections should never be limited by the size of a wallet. That’s why we’ve made the bold choice to open our doors for free, ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, has the opportunity to learn, reflect, and be inspired.

For us, free admission is about more than removing a financial barrier. It’s about the belief that our history belongs to everyone. Students from underserved schools, families visiting for the first time, and longtime residents alike can now experience our exhibits without hesitation. This accessibility fuels curiosity, encourages dialogue, and deepens understanding. Especially when exploring complex histories.

One of the most powerful artifacts in our collection is the Auction Block, a stark reminder of our region’s legacy of inequality. In recent years, it has become a focal point for conversations about justice, history, and healing. We believe that such an important piece of our collective past must never be hidden behind a ticket price.

Our museum has seen a surge of visitation in the last couple years. That surge wasn’t just about numbers but instead was about energy, conversation, and connection. It was about seeing new faces in our galleries, hearing fresh perspectives, and welcoming back neighbors who hadn’t visited in years.

We are committed to keeping this momentum going. It takes resources to make free access possible, and we are grateful for the community partners and supporters who help us keep our promise. Together, we can ensure that FAM remains a place where everyone can experience the stories, art, and history that shape our world, without barriers.

Because history belongs to all of us.

Sam McKelvey

President and CEO