Camera Heritage Museum Information

The Camera Heritage Museum was created to display the David Schwartz Camera Collection, a collection of almost 4,500 cameras as well as accessories and photographs. Since we became non-profit we have received over 1000 more cameras from other people who had private collections. Our collection of antique cameras includes daguerreotypes, wooden cameras, spy cameras and over 100 Leicas and Zeiss cameras. We have over 5000 cameras and lenses as well as over 2500 historical photos of the Staunton area. The museum's mission is to share with the public a glimpse into the fascinating story of photography. In this small town in central Virginia you can see some of the most technologically advanced instruments of their times along with photos spanning over 150 years. There are stories behind many of these cameras which are well worth your time, even if you are not a camera buff! From stories about local photographers whose work is nationally known, to the events that they captured for future generations, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. The Camera Museum is housed in the Camera and Palette Inc. location at 1 W Beverley St. Staunton, VA. Tucked into this camera store amid an extensive array of new and used equipment, the Camera Heritage Museum is the largest camera museum in the USA open to the public. Tours are available upon request. Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm M-Fr, 9:00 am-2:00 pm Sat. Wheelchair accessible $5 Admission