Popularly hailed by the moniker of 'America's Shakespeare', Edgar Allen Poe is one of American Literature's most influential figures, having mastered the art of storytelling in spheres like short novellas, detective, science and horror fiction, while also lyric poetry. The Edgar Allen Poe Museum, which is located at East Main Street in Richmond, showcases the life and extraordinary genius of this author through their extensive collection of memorabilia and artifacts.
Your journey through the Poe Museum begins with a scale model of former-day Richmond, which reflects the economic and social standing of this city as it were in Poe's day. The museum also exhibits rare souvenirs like Poe's walking stick and also a lock that was clipped from his brow after his mysterious death.
Literature enthusiasts will undoubtedly revel in the extensive selection of first editions of Poe's works that are on display here. These include a rare copy of The Raven and Other Poems, which dates back to 1845, a handwritten copy of the poem Siope and a textbook of conchology, which was declared a bestseller soon after publication. Poe's death is as enigmatic as his long and illustrious life, with several probable causes suggested like epilepsy, murder and diabetes. The 'Lord, have mercy on m soul' exhibit displays these causes, none of which have either been confirmed, or denied.
At the end of your visit, don't forget to stop by at the Museum Store which offers a concise array of museum-themed memorabilia for souvenirs of your visit or thoughtful gift ideas. You can even host your wedding in Poe's Enchanted Garden modeled after his description in the poem 'To One in Paradise'.
The Edgar Allen Poe Museum welcomes visitors from 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday, and 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is charged at about $6 per person, with special discounts for students and seniors.
For further information, you can refer to the website http://www.poemuseum.org or call the Edgar Allen Poe Museum at 804-648-5523.
The Edgar Allen Poe Museum
1914-16 E. Main St.
Richmond, VA 23223
