Famous People of Richmond, Virginia

Patrick Henry

Governor of Virginia 5 times

Richmond, Virginia 3-23-1775

"It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! "

Elmira Royston Shelton

Elmira lived in a house directly in back of Patrick Henry's St. John's Church in Richmond and was engaged to newspaper editor, Edgar Allen Poe.

Lewis F. Powell

Justice, Supreme Court of the United States

Major James H. Dooley

Major Dooley was an extraordinary Irish American. Scholar, lawyer, confederate soldier and financier, Dooley was above all a philanthropist whose good works are still aiding unfortunate people since his death in 1922.

He was deeply involved in civic, philanthropic, cultural and charitable endeavors. His work was planned and methodical. He hated indolence and, like Thomas Jefferson, he determined never to be idle and agreed 'it is wonderful how much can be done if we are always doing.'

Varina Anne Banks Howell Davis

Varina was an intelligent, deeply religious woman and provided Jefferson Davis with loyalty, companionship, and a great reserve of strength.

The people of Richmond that read and understand history - the people that understand Richmond and the South - are proud of Varina and Jefferson Davis and honor them.