The Jerry Falwell Museum highlights the life of Liberty University founder and evangelical leader Jerry Falwell Sr.
Located on the lower level of the Hancock Welcome Center, the museum is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and is free to the general public.
Museum curator and Liberty graduate Michelle Marttila worked with the museum in its early stages of development and was present at its grand opening.
Originally planned as a surprise for Falwell Sr.’s 70th birthday, the museum shows the history behind his life and mission.
Marttila said it was meaningful to have Falwell Sr.’s history documented.
“Roots are important, you know, and our foundation,” Marttila said. “Our founder was such a prayer warrior … He wanted a place for Christians to thrive, and he lived that.”
Marttila believes exhibits such as Falwell Sr.’s childhood desk, memorabilia and the Thomas Road pulpit display how God can use faith and personal possessions for his work.
“The most important thing, I think, when going through the museum is to see that faith foundation, and the power and the miracles that the Lord did through one man, and he could do it through any of us,” Marttila said.
According to Marttila, the Jerry Falwell Museum exists to share the story of the Lord’s work in Falwell Sr.’s life. Marttila hopes students will recognize that God can use them to accomplish similar work.
The museum emphasizes that Falwell Sr. was an ordinary person who had faith and a love for his town, knocking on 100 doors a day to invite people to church in the early days of his ministry.
Marttila said her own faith and character have grown through hearing stories and seeing evidence of Falwell Sr.’s devotion.
“People go through the museum to see our history and our humble beginnings and see how the Lord will work things out for his glory,” Marttila said.
The museum continues to expand its exhibits and explores ways to use its existing materials. Multiple interactive displays are currently in development and will be used to encourage students to learn more about Liberty’s history.
“Things don’t always happen at once … it’s those small beginnings,” Marttila said. “I am honored to be a part of that, and for people to see that and our history and hopefully be inspired to do great things for the Lord and for the Kingdom and win people to Christ.”
To follow the museum’s updates, visit the website and follow the Jerry Falwell Museum on Instagram and Facebook.
Kern is a feature reporter for The Liberty Champion.