About

About the National VA History Center

The National VA History Center (NVAHC) is a transformative project dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and legacy of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Located in Dayton, Ohio, the Center will be a place for people of all ages to gather, learn, recognize and remember the significant contributions that the VA has made to our American way of life.

The Project

The National VA History Center is a multi-phase project that will include the restoration of historic buildings and the construction of new facilities.
Dayton VA Campus Map Key
Dayton VA Campus Map

The center will feature:

Rendering of an Exhibition Hall

Exhibition Halls

Interactive displays and exhibits showcasing the history and achievements of the VA.

Rendering of a Archive Hall

Archives

A comprehensive collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the VA’s history.

Tour Guide Explaining an Exhibit to Visitors

Educational Programs

Initiatives are designed to educate the public, students, and researchers about the VA’s contributions and ongoing work.

A Community Space with People Sitting Around Tables

Community Spaces

Areas for events, lectures, and community engagement activities.

Key Milestones

The journey to establish the NVAHC has been marked by several significant milestones:

2009

Efforts begin within the Veterans Health Administration to establish a central history program and archives storage.

2011

Formation of the VA History and Archives Working Group.

2013

VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki approves the concept of a history center and requests an external feasibility study.

2014

Feasibility study completed by History Associates, Inc.

2016

VA Secretary Robert A. McDonald announces Dayton, Ohio, as the site for the VA historical archive.

2017

Memorandum of Agreement signed between the Department of Veterans Affairs and Dayton community organizations.

2018

The VA History Center Foundation is incorporated as a State of Ohio 501(c)(3) not-for-profit.

2019

Col (retired) Michael D. Visconage, USMCR, becomes History Program Director and Chief Historian.

2020

VA History Office formally established.

2021

The Foundation is redesignated as the National VA History Center Foundation.

2023

VA Secretary Denis R. McDonough reaffirms the VA’s commitment to the project.

The Foundation

The National VA History Center Foundation was established to support the development of this world-class facility. The Foundation plays a critical role in safeguarding the stories, artifacts, and contributions of the VA, ensuring they are accessible and engaging for future generations. The Foundation’s mission is to raise the necessary funds to support the construction and operation of the center. Through public and private partnerships, the Foundation aims to secure $72 million in private support, supplemented by $14.24 million in public funds from the VA.
National VA History Center Foundation Logo