Founded in 1775, Hampden-Sydney College is the last American College founded under the British crown, and has remained in continuous operation since November 10, 1775. It is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States, holds the oldest private charter (1783) in the South, and is the oldest of the country's remaining Colleges for men.

The College is significant for its role in the history of Virginia and the United States, as well as many outstanding scholars, theologians, citizens, and institutions it has produced, such as

the Union Theological Seminary, Richmond, Virginia, and the Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia; both founded under the charter of Hampden-Sydney College.

A permanent exhibition highlights the history of the College, from the arrival of the first Presbyterians in this region (ca 1770), until the twentieth century, with a special emphasis on the birth of the College (1775), the Union Theological Seminary (1812), the New College (1820), the Medical Department (1837), and the role of the College during the War years.

Visitors can also expect to see a variety of changing exhibitions in the East Gallery, which highlight the College curriculum, symposiums, honor faculty achievements, alumni, and supplement other special College events.