Blue Ridge Institute & Museum - BRIM

06/16/2026

Undoubtedly, the very best part of our job at Virginia's only folklife museum is getting to know all of the special people who come into our lives. They become our friends and we rely on them to show up year after year, doing what they can to help us pull off one of the largest and most authentic festivals in SWVA in October, the legendary Blue Ridge Folklife Festival at Ferrum College
Today we are mourning the loss of the one and only Roy Johnson, of Gladys, VA. His story is downright inspiring and humbling; Roy started working with Border collies after he lost his hands in a hay baler accident in 1984. He shared his expertise and personal journey with festival crowds as he maneuvered a flock of sheep using a whistle and arm motions with his collies. He was a regular at the festival for many years, recently pausing to care of his wife, Debbie, who traveled with him and who he adored. Roy had hoped to return to the festival this year. We mourn our festival colleague and friend and will keep his wife and family close to our hearts❤️.

06/12/2026

Thank you, ABC 13 - WSET, for the visit😊!

I can’t make this stuff up, I was afraid this friendly donkey 🫏 might have tried to eat my tripod in the middle of an interview today! By the way, stay tuned for a future airing featuring the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum - BRIM as part of our local Amazing America 250 series that airs on Thursdays on ABC 13 - WSET. Rachel Tillapaugh - WSET

05/30/2026

The 1800 farm museum is open today from 10-4. Drop by for a tour and see what’s cooking on the open hearth😊.

05/28/2026

Sheep shearing day at the 1800 farm 🐑.

05/21/2026

May is celebrated as National Historic Preservation Month throughout Virginia, honoring the Commonwealth's rich history and the ongoing work to protect its architectural and cultural landmarks. At the BRIM, we are thankful to have this exceptional log bank barn, circa 1799, donated by the Prillaman family of Callaway, VA. Our living heritage farm is open every Saturday, 10-4, until Labor Day so drop on by and see how magnificent this architectural gem is in person.

05/18/2026

A beautiful day for Fincastle Company: 18th Century Living History Interpreters at the 1800 Farm at Ferrum College! This VA250 - American Revolution 250 Commission event featured military and civilians during the 18th century, particularly during the American War of Independence.

05/11/2026

Welcome to the BRIM, Kari & Daniel! These two talented Ferrum College students are our McBroom scholars for the summer. In 2014, the McBroom Student Assistantship Program was established with the gift from The June M. McBroom Charitable Lead Trust to establish a program the BRIM of Ferrum College. The purpose of this assistantship is to provide hands-on experience in a museum and archive.

05/01/2026

A huge thank you to our incredible panel of judges last weekend for bringing their expertise to the 3rd Annual BBQ Cook-Off. We couldn't have done it without you! 🍖👏

05/01/2026

05/01/2026

Come visit and see our little lambs and Brimmy the donkey 😍!