Nestled in Waverly, Virginia, the First Peanut Museum in the United States shares its home with the Miles B. Carpenter Folk Art Museum, celebrating the region’s deep connection to peanut farming. Waverly is not only the historical heart of peanut farming but also recognized as the World’s Largest Peanut Market.
The Roots of Peanut Farming in Waverly
Peanuts have long been a staple of Waverly’s history. In 1842, Dr. Matthew Harris experimented with peanut varieties, eventually cultivating a crop that he sold in nearby Petersburg. Just a few decades later, in 1880, the Old Dominion Peanut Company became the first to commercialize peanut buying, grading, and shelling—marking the beginning of peanuts as a major agricultural commodity.
Famous figures like P.T. Barnum helped popularize peanuts across America by selling “Hot Roasted Peanuts” at his circuses, solidifying their role in American culture.
Visit the Museum
The Peanut Museum offers an intimate look at the history of this beloved crop, featuring artifacts and stories tied to its rise. Visitors can explore displays that detail the early days of peanut farming and its impact on local and national economies. The museum is open during the same hours as the Miles B. Carpenter Museum or by appointment for groups.
📍 Location: 201 Hunter St, Waverly, VA 23890
📞 Contact: (804) 834-3327 or (804) 834-2151
🔗 Learn more on their Facebook page.
Explore Waverly’s Heritage
While visiting the Peanut Museum, take time to explore the Miles B. Carpenter Museum, which showcases folk art and the legacy of its namesake, a renowned wood sculptor. Together, these museums offer a window into Waverly’s cultural and agricultural history, making them a must-visit destination for history and art enthusiasts alike.
Plan your visit and uncover the rich heritage of Virginia’s peanut farming today!