Virginia Room Digital Collection

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The Virginia Room Digital Collection includes photographs, oral histories, books, pamphlets and finding aids to items in the Virginia Room. Continue to check back for new additions.

Browse Items (9268 total)

This image depicts a large farmhouse in a wooded area.

This image depicts a lively restaurant scene, assumedly at Nick's Cafe. Booths along the left side of the image are filled with people, and the counter on the right is also busy with workers and customers. There is one man dancing on the checkerboard…

This image depicts "The Church on the Hill," likely referring to St. Andrew's Catholic Church. The church is at the center of the image with a small building off to the left as well. A road cuts through the front of the image with a sign that says…

This image shows Henry Street, cutting through the middle of the image. Several people and cars are seen moving through the street. On the left side of the image, moving backwards, signs say, "Hair Cuts Plus", "Dentest", "Dumas Hotel", "Jack &…

This image depicts the west side of Henry Street. From left to right, buildings are labelled as, "Dumas", "Hunters Cafe", "Hotel Palace", "Pool Hall", "Horse Shoe", and "BPW Cab Co". High Street cuts through the left side of the image as well. The…

This image has the viewer look out on the porch. There is a chicken, a bicycle, and a swing in the tree on the left side of the image and a fenced off area on the right. Three other buildings can be seen in the background of the image. The rest of…

This image depicts three boys at a donkey pen. The two donkeys are right next to the fence by the boys. A trailer is off to the left, and the sun is setting over the mountains in the background.

This image depicts a man waving to a kid walking up the street. There is a large cabin-like structure with another man sitting on the porch as well as two other buildings off to the left. The rest of the image is largely wooded.

This image depicts a large cabin-like home on the side of a lake. There is a boat docked in the lake, and a truck driving away from the house. There is another, smaller, boat in the yard off to the right of the home. Two deer can also be seen on the…

This image depicts what is assumedly Smith Mountain Lake. There are three boats in the water, and one has two boys fishing in it. There is an overturned boat on the shore. The author signed the work and wrote, "Smith MTN on the Lake".

This image depicts a simple drawing of a dock and four boats along the shoreline of a body of water. The artist initialed the work and wrote "2009".

This image depicts a large farmhouse as well as a barn with several horses walking in a small and enclosed pasture. Two cars and a horse trailer are also pictured.

This image depicts a small stream cutting through the image. There is a small bridge that goes over the water, and several trees surrounding the stream. The artist signed, "David - R".

This image depicts Indigenous people of Virginia, according to the artist. There is one man sitting on top of a horse, and several other people standing off to the sides. One seems to be chopping wood. The artist initialed the work and also wrote,…

This image depicts Indigenous people of Virginia, according to the artist. In the foreground of the image, there is a man sitting on top of a horse, and there are several other people on horses around him. The background is largely wooded. The artist…

This image depicts Indigenous people of North Carolina and Virginia, as notated by the artist. There appears to be some kind of ceremony or celebration happening as there is likely music and people dancing in the background. The author wrote, "Two…

This image depicts a busy street with many cars and people crossing. The one legible sign says, "Bank Virginia". The street is lined with other buildings, but none are labelled. There is a cross street visible, but it is also not labelled. The artist…

This image assumedly depicts the interior of Weeby's Grocery. There are two men standing behind the counter as they help a customer. There are several canned and jarred items on the shelves as well as large hams and bags of coal for "50 [cents]".…

This image assumedly depicts the interior of Weeby's Grocery. There is a man standing at the counter, helping direct a customer. On the wall, there are several canned and jarred items as well as boxes marked, "Shoe" and "Glove". There is an apparent…

This image depicts three people standing and looking at the advertisements for entertainment. Far left sign says, "James Brown and the Famous Flames July 29 1961 Ebony Club". The middle sign says, "Lord Price 15 piece Band Sep. 2nd 1961 Ebony Club".…

This image depicts five boys running down the street. One of the boys seems to be holding a stick. Houses are lining the street, and St. Andrew's Catholic Church can be seen in the background. The artist signed the piece and also wrote "(c)…

This image shows various hair care and shaving supplies like a comb, clippers, and some soap. The artist initialed the piece and also wrote "(c) 2007".

Loose from Taubman. Page is unevenly cut.

This image depicts a woman, assumedly a beautician, helping another woman into the hairdryer. A boy stands at the window, looking in. There are pieces of paper on the wall as well as bottled items that are unlabeled. A small sink is there as well.…

This image depicts a man leaving the Pool Hall while holding a pool stick. A woman is walking across the street, and two other men can be seen inside the Pool Hall. The artist initialed the work and also wrote "(c) 2015".

Loose from Taubman. Top…

This image depicts a pharmacist and a young boy on a bicycle. The pharmacist is holding something, and the young boy's bicycle has the words "Brooks Drug" written on it. The building behind them also has windows labelled as "Brooks Drugs". The artist…

This image depicts someone with a large tray of pies. There is an oven in the background and several places in which the walls are crumbling. Ingredients like oil and "Flower" can also be seen in the background. The artist signed the piece and also…

This image depicts a roll of bread, a pie, and a red apple. The artist signed the work and also wrote, "Pie Man (c) 1991".

Loose from Taubman.

This image depicts a pair of boxing gloves as well as a bell. The author initialed the work and wrote, "Jessie Baker (c) 2015".

Loose from Taubman. Page is unevenly cut.

This image focuses on a taxi cab in the middle of the image. There are houses lining the street on both sides and the road recedes into the background. The artist signed the work and also wrote, "CAB (c) 2015".

This image depicts what is assumedly Nick's Cafe. There are four people sitting at the counter, and another standing while two men work behind the counter. The floor is checkered and there are three hams hanging from the wall on the right. The artist…

This image depicts what is assumedly Nick's Cafe/ There are four people at the counter while two men work behind the counter. From left to right, the signs on the back wall read, "Help Wanted", "Coffee 25 Sodas 15 Ice Tea 10 Hot Chocilat", and "Bowl…

This image depicts two people shaking hands on the street with a few onlookers. One of the people shaking hands is on crutches. The sign on the left side of the image says, "Pepsi Cola". The artist wrote, "Help" in the bottom right corner.

Loose…

This image depicts a burger, a soda, a piece of pie, a hot dog, and assumedly some kind of sandwich. The burger is priced at 10 cents, the soda is 10 cents, the slice of pie is 15 cents, the hot dog is 10 cents, and the sandwich is 15 cents. The…

This image depicts an eight-person band on stage with several people watching and dancing from below the stage.

Loose from Taubman. Page is unevenly cut.

This image depicts a man and a young boy having a conversation out on the porch. The address number on the house is "1201". The boy seems to be pointing toward a cityscape.

Loose from Taubman. Page is unevenly cut.

"The late David A. Ramey captured images of life in Roanoke, many from memory. In images such as this these, he focused on the vibrant Gainsboro neighborhood, much lost to urban renewal efforts of the 1960s. Mr. Ramey's work spans a broad range of…

"The late David A. Ramey captured images of life in Roanoke, many from memory. In images such as this these, he focused on the vibrant Gainsboro neighborhood, much lost to urban renewal efforts of the 1960s. Mr. Ramey's work is noted for his…

This image depicts the Gainsboro Branch Library on Patton Avenue. St. Andrew's Catholic Church can be seen up the hill on Jefferson Street, and two nuns appear to be walking to the library from the church. Five people are walking around the street…

"The late David A. Ramey captured many images of Roanokers, from fellow Norfolk Southern employees to these African-American police officers from the segregated years of the 1960s. Community policing has deep roots in Roanoke. The officers pictured…

"The late David A. Ramey captured images of life in Roanoke, many from memory. In images such as this one, he focused on the vibrant Gainsboro neighborhood, much lost to urban renewal efforts of the 1960s. Mr. Ramey's writing captures the spirit of a…

This image depicts the Hotel Dumas on Henry Street. There appears to be a coffee shop inside, and the Jack and Jills Soda Shop on the right. Several houses and buildings recede into the background. People are seen walking and biking across the…

This image depicts the Gainsboro Branch Library after snow has fallen. There are many children playing in the Library Yard, building snowmen and throwing snowballs. The William A. Hunton Branch YMCA can be seen on the far right. A note on the back of…

This image depicts several businesses on Henry Street, and the street is bustling with people. On the left side, from top to bottom, listed businesses are "Weebys Grocries Coak Cola ABC", "Pepsi Cola 308 Club", "Pool Hall", "Barber Shop", "Nicks Cafe…

This image depicts Rutherford Avenue in North East Roanoke. B&G Grocery can be seen on the far right of the image. Many people and cars can be seen crossing the street. The Roanoke Gas Company tanks can also be seen in the background of the…

This image depicts Jesus being crucified. Two other people are being crucified, one on either side. There are four figures around Jesus, but all of the figures in the image are blacked out.

This image depicts Jesus being crucified. Two other people are being crucified, one on either side. There are several soldiers and onlookers at the foot of the cross.

Displayed at the Taubman Museum of Art Exhibit 2023-2024.

This image portrays Jesus after he rose from the dead. His arms are raised and viewers can see the holes in his hands and feet from the nails. Three crosses are in the background.

Displayed at the Taubman Museum of Art Exhibit 2023-2024.

This image portrays Jesus being crucified. Two others are being crucified, one on either side.

The Colonel is the annual for William Fleming High School.

The Greenvale School collection consists of materials kept by administration regarding school initiatives, activities, and fundraising. The bulk of the collection was housed in two oversized scrapbooks containing photographs, news clippings, and…

The collection is contained in 8 document boxes, and 1 oversized flat box and is broadly organized as follows:
Sections I-III include documents related to the development of the Greenway, including correspondence, meeting agendas and minutes,…

This story is about the Hotel Dumas as well as some of the other buildings and people that resided on Henry Street. The author also talks about how he has perceived a change in respect between people over the years.

Loose pages from Taubman.

This story is about Henry Street, and the many businesses and people that resided there. Loose pages from Taubman.


This collection of genealogy documents and family photographs was compiled by Lorna Kearfott Stone, her father, Dr. William Conrad Stone (1915-2007), and her paternal grandparents, Dr. Harry Benjamin Stone Sr. (1879-1966) and Mary Lu Kearfott Stone…

The collection consists of a scrapbook compiled by Philip H. Trout. It contains newspaper clippings, magazine articles and other ephemera related to the Roanoke City Water System in the years 1943-1952, with a focus on the connection of the Carvins…

This image portrays a small child running toward Jesus. There are two angels pictured, one on either side of Jesus. The artist wrote, "Welcome Home" and signed the bottom right corner.

This collection of photographs consists of images primarily related to the Shuyler and Cora Hutton Cormany Family and their descendants. Also included are photographs of Robert and Alma Cormany Leonard and descendants. Included with the photographs…

Branch Manager, Carla M. Lewis, standing at a podium in the Gainsboro Branch Library, speaking to a crowd. Three people are seated behind her, from right to left, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Dr. John Kern, and Evelyn D. Bethel. Picture from Roanoke City…

Branch Manager, Carla M. Lewis, standing at a podium in the Gainsboro Branch Library, speaking to a crowd. Three people are seated behind her, from right to left, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Dr. John Kern, and Evelyn D. Bethel. The Virginia Historic…

City Librarian Beverly James, standing at a podium in the Gainsboro Branch Library, speaking to a crowd. Three people are seated behind her, from right to left, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Dr. John Kern, and Evelyn D. Bethel. The Virginia Historic…

Reverend E. T. Burton of Sweet Union Baptist Church, standing at a podium in the Gainsboro Branch Library, speaking to a crowd. Three people are seated behind him, from right to left, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Dr. John Kern, and Evelyn D. Bethel. The…

Evelyn D. Bethel (left) raises curtain over Virginia Historic Landmark Placard with Dr. John Kern. Unidentified man stands to the right of Kern. Alphonzo Holland, Sr. stands at the podium at the far right of the image. Picture from Roanoke City…

Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell provides a performance to the crowd. Barnwell directs her puppet, assumedly Pecan or Willie Webster, toward three people sitting next to the podium. From right to left, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Dr. John Kern, and Evelyn D.…

Photo of the crowd gathered for Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Branch Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Virginia Reeves standing at a podium in the Gainsboro Branch Library, speaking to a crowd. There are two men seated next to the podium, from left to right, Dr. John Kern and Alphonzo Holland, Sr. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th…

Three men standing and talking at the Gainsboro Branch Library. On the left is Alphonzo Holland, Sr. In the middle is assumedly Glenn Radcliffe. Unidentified man on the right. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at…

Unidentified group of people gathered in chairs for Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Woman in back row with red flower is Virginia Reeves. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Two unidentified women standing at the Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Branch Manager, Carla Lewis, and her husband, Peter Lewis, standing at the Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

From left to right, the people at the front of the room, facing the crowd, are, Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell, and Branch Manager, Carla Lewis. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th…

A small girl is being given a present by an unidentified woman. In the background, from right to left, there is Branch Manager, Carla Lewis, Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., and Dr. John Kern. Picture from Roanoke City Public…

An unidentified group of people are gathered for Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Banner for the event is pictured above the doorway to the staff area. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Unidentified women is presenting a gift to an unidentified man in the image. In the background, from right to left, there is Branch Manager, Carla Lewis, Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., and Dr. John Kern. Picture from Roanoke…

Marion B. Smith (left) hugging an unidentified woman. To the far left, Dr. John Kern is seated to the left of Alphonzo Holland, Sr. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996.…

Marion B. Smith is speaking with Virginia Reeves in front of a crowd. The row of people sitting behind them include, from left to right, unidentified man, Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., assumedly Glenn Radcliffe, and an…

Marion B. Smith is pinning something on an unidentified woman. Behind them, from left to right, is an unidentified man, Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, and Alphonzo Holland, Sr. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration…

Branch Manager Carla Lewis shaking hands with her husband, Peter Lewis. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

From left to right, Marion B. Smith, Peter Lewis, and an unidentified woman stand for a group picture. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

This photo appears to be a picture of a painting. There is a woman and a man on a picnic blanket, and two other women toward the bottom of the image. All of the people in the scene are looking off to the right of the image.

A man is standing with his back to the camera in a light gray suit. The people facing the camera, from left to right, are Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell, Branch Manager Carla Lewis, and two unidentified women. Picture from…

An unidentified man and an unidentified woman speak to one another in front of the podium, before the crowd. In the background, from left to right, there is Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell, and…

An unidentified woman hands a present to Reverend E. T. Burton. On the left side of the image, Alphonzo Holland, Sr. and Ventriloquist Tammy Barnwell stand by the podium. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the…

Marion B. Smith cuts a large sheet cake that says, “Happy 75th Anniversary Gainsboro Library.” Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Most likely a photograph taken by mistake. An unidentified person stands in front of the camera. Marion B. Smith can be seen in the corner. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December…

Three unidentified people stand by a table with a punch bowl, and a small cake that reads, “Happy Birthday Gainsboro 75th Library.” Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996.…

Two women and a small girl stand in front of a table with several catering trays on top of it. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Marion B. Smith leans over a table, holding a piece of cake. Peter Lewis, in a navy sports coat, can be seen to the left of the image. Several other unidentified people can be seen in the image. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th…

A group of unidentified people stand while assumedly listening to a presentation. Beverly James, City Librarian, is in the pink sweater to the right of the image, next to the display of balloons. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th…

Dr. John Kern stands at the podium, speaking at the Gainsboro Branch Library. There is a row of people sitting behind him, including, from left to right, an unidentified man, Evelyn D. Bethel, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., and who is assumedly Glenn…

Marion B. Smith is standing behind the circulation desk at the Gainsboro Branch Library helping Ms. Graves and a small girl. Beverly James, City Librarian, can be seen to the right of the image, in a pink sweater, next to a display of balloons.…

Evelyn D. Bethel stands at the podium, speaking at the Gainsboro Branch Library. There is a row of people sitting behind her, including, from left to right, an unidentified man, Dr. John Kern, Alphonzo Holland, Sr., and, assumedly, Glenn Radcliffe.…

Dr. Walter Claytor is pictured standing against the circulation desk at the Gainsboro Branch Library. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

An unidentified woman is standing at the podium, speaking to an audience gathered at the Gainsboro Branch Library. From left to right, there are three other people sitting behind her, Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, and Alphonzo Holland, Sr. The…

An unidentified man is standing at the podium, speaking to an audience gathered at the Gainsboro Branch Library. From left to right, there are three other people sitting behind him, Evelyn D. Bethel, Dr. John Kern, and Alphonzo Holland, Sr. Picture…

Branch Manager Carla Lewis is sitting at the circulation desk at the Gainsboro Branch Library. Numerous other unidentified people are sitting in the crowd for the celebration. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at…

This picture captures some of the audience members of the 75th Anniversary Celebration. Dr. Walter Claytor is sitting third from left in the front row, in the black sports coat. Peter Lewis is standing in the background with a light blue shirt and…

Dr. John Kern stands at the podium, speaking at the Gainsboro Branch Library. There is a row of people sitting behind him, including, from left to right, an unidentified man and Evelyn D. Bethel. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th…

Three women are pictured speaking to one another. From left to right, there is an unidentified woman, Beverly James, City Librarian, and Ms. Graves. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6…

Dr. John Kern, left, speaking to an unidentified man at the Gainsboro Branch Library. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

A group of four people at the 75th Anniversary celebration. From left to right, Ms. Graves, Peter Lewis, an unidentified woman, and Dr. Walter Claytor. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library,…

A group of unidentified people seated for the 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Branch Library. Picture from Roanoke City Public Library’s 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Gainsboro Library, 6 December 1996. Photographs by Bob Hale.

Two balloon decorations set up outside of the Gainsboro Branch Library. The balloons have writing on them (assumedly for the 75th Anniversary) and the Mill Mountain Star.

Streetscape image of the Gainsboro Branch Library. Photo assumedly taken from Patton Avenue on the west side of Gainsboro Road. Picture is assumedly from the Gainsboro Road Expansion Project.

Young boy wearing a graduation cap and gown in front of the Gainsboro Library. “Hugh Ennis.”

“Harry A. White.” Photographer: Johnhoite (?) Studio

“To the fellow I love most of all, my husband, love and kisses, Del.”

Unidentified Polynesian-style group photograph.

From left to right: Clarence Dunnaville Jr. and Cabell Brand at Oliver Hill’s 100th Birthday Celebration.

Group drinking Coca-Cola in a grocery store.

Freemason group.

Virginia Y. Lee, about 1982.

Virginia Y. Lee with flowers.

Virginia Y. Lee posing with trellis flowers.

Della Williams, front far left (married E.D. Downing), and unidentified group photograph.

Dr. Justin Plumber and unidentified woman.

Large group at a long table. Dr. Harry Penn, second from right, back row, plaid suit.

Claytor Family photograph; unidentified man at graduation.

Claytor Family photograph; unidentified man at graduation.

Claytor Family photograph; birthday celebration.

Claytor Family photograph; birthday celebration.

Claytor Family photograph; unidentified man sitting in a chair.

Left to right: Dr. Wallace King (Dentist,) Ruth Williams Claytor (married to John B. Claytor Jr.,) Dr. Maynard H. Law, and John B. Claytor Jr.

Claytor Family photograph; wedding party. “Left to Right: Stephan – 24, Kevin – 30, Eric -27, Pop, Ma, Greggory – 28 Groom, Mike – 39, Roderick – 40, Justin – 41, Maurice – 37, Geoffrey – 28 Best Man.”

Claytor Family photograph; unidentified group photograph in a living room.

Left to right: Mrs. Curtis (married Cecil Curtis,) James Claytor Charlton “Red,” Nina Bolden (married Rex Bolden.)

Claytor Family photograph; wedding.

Claytor Family photograph; Victory Stadium.

Claytor Family photograph; Victory Stadium.

Claytor Family photograph; Victory Stadium.

Left to right: Dr. Walter Claytor, Ralph Claytor, and Dr. John B. Claytor Jr.

Left to right: Kim Claytor, Dr. Walter Claytor, Dorothy Shepperson Greene, and Ralph Claytor.

Claytor Family photograph; unidentified portrait of a man.

First Baptist Church Gainsboro, interior. Rotogravure print.

Two young girls.

Plaque Dedication Ceremony at the National D-Day Memorial. Digital print.

Plaque Dedication Ceremony at the National D-Day Memorial. Al Holland with unidentified woman. Digital Print.

Plaque Dedication Ceremony at the National D-Day Memorial. Al Holland with unidentified man. Digital print.

Al Holland, Sr. and two unidentified men at the Gainsboro Library.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monument Dedication.

Side A: “Early Black Baseball Team Roanoke.” N&W Negro League. Side B: Unidentified men riding in an automobile.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

Gainsboro Library, exterior. Polaroid print.

First Baptist Church of Gainsboro. Rev. Charles Green. “C. Patterson.”

Interior of an unidentified auto repair garage. “C. Patterson.”

Gainsboro Library when it was located in the old Odd Fellows/YMCA Building.

Exterior, Gainsboro Library.

Interior, Gainsboro Library.

Basement, Gainsboro Library.

Basement, Gainsboro Library.

A man stands at the podium at the Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication 26 September 1982. Assumedly Rev. Edward T. Burton.

A woman stands at the podium at the Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication 26 September 1982. The man seated to the left is assumedly Mr. Lewis Peery.

Branch Librarian, Carla (Pullen) Lewis stands at the Gainsboro Circulation Desk at the Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication 26 September 1982.

Two women stand to the right of a podium at the Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication 26 September 1982. The woman in white is Virginia Y. Lee and the other woman is presumably Mrs. Virginia Reeves. The man on the left of the image is assumedly Mr.…

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication.

“To the Roanoke City Public Library. Reading is fundamental. Learn to read and your dreams come true. God bless you, Jonelle Allen, ‘Doreen.”

“I write to promote understanding, Roy (?) Graham (?), 1958.”

Sweet Union Baptist.

Order of the Eastern Star group photograph in front of the Allegany-Dunbar Freemason’s Prince Hall.

Gainsboro Library, exterior, with a children’s class. (Reprint, original is missing.) Small boy standing next to Virginia Y. Lee in top row is Curtis Reeves, nephew of Ms. Lee. Small girl in Little Red Riding Hood costume in third row is Virginia…

Virginia Sanitary Barbershop, on Henry Street. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Location of Kaiser Record Store on Henry Street. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Virginia Theater sign. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Commonwealth Ave. (Williamson Rd.) at Patton Ave. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.

Lincoln Theater on Henry Street with the N&W Veterans Association Colored Division. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Medical complex on Henry Street and Centre Avenue, top left, with the Community Drug Store (Dr. Beverly L. Adams pictured, bottom left) and the offices of dentist Dr. H. T. Penn, right. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Lynhaven Smoke Shop at 125 N. Henry St., 1942. (Reprint, library owns digital copy only, not original.)

Unidentified man posing for portrait against plain background in patterned suit and bowtie.

Four men posing against a wall with the sign, “Hospital Development Fund Campaign for Burrell Memorial Hospital Division 5 Organization” From left to right: unidentified man, Dr. Ellwood D. Downing, Dr. John B. Claytor Sr., Dr. F. W. Claytor.

Eight men gathered around an apparent banquet table. Unidentified man, Dr. F. W. Claytor, Dr. John B. Claytor Sr., unidentified man, Dr. Ellwood D. Downing, three unidentified men.

Ten unidentified people sitting around an apparent banquet table.

Man and woman standing together on a gym floor.

Table from GB148 in the background, another banquet table set up in front.

Person sitting at table holding cake that says, “Happy Birthday from Father to Son.” One color photo, one black and white.

Person sitting at table holding cake that says, “Happy Birthday from Father to Son.” One color photo, one black and white.

Small image of the outside of the Hotel Dumas.

Large group of people in fancy attire. Banquet tables in the background.

Inside of the Hotel Dumas.

Inside of the Hotel Dumas.

Inside of the Hotel Dumas.

Portrait of Dr. F.W. Claytor. Donated by the Gainsboro Family YMCA in 2012.

Mr. Roscoe R. Banks. First YMCA Member, Past Chairman of the Board of Members, Elected Honorary Board Member William A. Hunton Branch YMCA, Roanoke, VA. 1927-1956.

William A. Hunton Branch YMCA.

Perry Thomas Keeling, Sr. Boys' Work Secretary. 1955-1956, Executive Director: 1957-1990, the YMCA of Roanoke Valley Family Center Branch.

Harrison School Trip to Washington D.C.

Virginia State Graduating Class of 1914. Mattie Bell (Morris) was later a teacher at Gainsboro School.

This image depicts the Henry Street Bridge looking over into downtown Roanoke from Gainsboro. There are two cars going over the bridge, and several people using the stairs to get over the bridge. The bridge passes over the Norfolk and Western…

This image portrays the corner of Wells Avenue NW and Henry Street NW. "Weebys Groc" is situated at the corner. Several people are walking along the sidewalks in the image, and there is even a dog running. A boy at the bottom left of the image is in…

This image depicts the Henry Street Bridge from Centre Avenue NW. People are walking along the sidewalks. From left to right, the businesses that are listed are, "Kiser Records," "North Carolina Mutral Inc," "Dr. Butlar," and "Greens Shoe Repair."…

Dec. 1949; Group of nine people stand under a portrait of Booker T. Washington. President Sidney J. Phillips stands in the middle of the group. Attorney T. C. Walker second from right. A.V. Mundy is at the far right of the group. Located at Booker T.…

Front of image (RSI001) shows three children posed for a photograph. A small baby is seated on a large fur while a young boy stands at the back, and a young girl stands to the right. Back of image (RSI002) states that image was used as a post card…

Front of image (RSI003) shows three people posed for a portrait. A man sits on a wicker chair, and a small boy leans against it. A woman stands in the background. Image has a small emblem at the bottom that reads, "Landes Roanoke, VA." The back of…

Front of image (RSI005) shows a man sitting in a low-hanging shed/small covered structure. He is holding what appears to be a large sheet of honeycomb, and is seated next to what is assumedly beehives. The back of the image (RSI006) shows that the…

The front of the image (RSI007) shows a white farm house surrounded by farm land. The back of the image (RSI008) shows that this image was produced to be a Post Card. The small bit of handwriting on the back assumedly says, "Pres Hartman's Home Cave…

Roanoke Story Initiative Interview with Kaye S. Sellers
Interviewer: Whitney A. M. Leeson
Date: 04 August 2026
Location: Raleigh Court Library - Roanoke Story Initiative Cave Spring Program

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

Photo of Dr. Gardner Downing, DDS. He is pictured in middle with two other men. The men appear to be in military apparel. Back of photo reads, “Gardner Downing DDS Roanoke Va.” Photo donated by Dr. Conrad Claytor.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

Sorting Some of the Wrights of Southern Virginia is a multipart project. Each part will discuss a separate Wright family, beginning with the oldest known ancestor of that line.

The Compass is the annual for North Cross School.

This story is about the Picadilly Restaurant which later became either the Top Hat or "SadiLite". The author recounts the restaurant owners as well as the reputation of the Picadilly as one of those "places where alchol was being sold". The author…

This story is about Webb's Garage off of Henry Street. The author talks about how he would ride motorcycles with one of Buster Webb's children. The author also talks about Urban Renewal and the businesses and community that suffered.

This clip features the audio recording of the dedication of what would be later known as the Virginia Y. Lee Collection at the Gainsboro Branch Library.

This is the program for the evening of the Virginia Y. Lee Collection Dedication on 26 September 1982.

This paper is a description of the Virginia Y. Lee Collection.

This is a newspaper article from 23 October 1959. The title of the article is "Iron Mines Thrived Near Sugar Loaf 50 Years Ago."

This is a scan of a newspaper article. The article's title is "Pioneer Roanoker Recalls Ups and Downs of Iron Ore Mining In Cave Spring Area" written by Raymond P. Barnes.

This is a newspaper article. The title of the article is "History Of Cave Spring Settlement Began With Patent Of David Stewart About 1750" written by Raymond P. Barnes.

This is a newspaper article. The name of the article is "Map of Cave Spring Area Shows Location of Landmarks and Historic Spots."
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