Like New Yorkers with the Empire State Building or Washingtonians with their monument, Charlottesville residents may only visit UVA when guests come to town. Fortunately, the University Guide Service offers a free, hour-long historic tour of the Lawn area daily during the academic year, providing a whole different perspective on our company town.
UGS student volunteers go through a semester-long training program to develop one tour geared to UVA applicants, and another version for visitors, tourists, and locals interested in learning more about the history of the university.
“Everyone thinks UVA and Jefferson,” says rising third-year John Beddell, current UGS chair. “People are amazed at how much history we cover.” They are also surprised to learn that UVA’s founder and architect died after serving only one year as its president.
The guides aim to tell a complete story—not just about the Academical Village, but also about the enslaved laborers who built and worked on Grounds; UVA’s development in the context of Charlottesville’s history; and efforts over the years pushing for change at the institution. A tour focusing on UVA’s Black history is offered every Sunday afternoon. Specialty tours can also be requested—the history of women at UVA, children’s tours, or large-group tours.
But—no surprise to area residents—no tours are offered on days with home football games.