Virginia Cultural Resources Information System
VCRIS is the Department of Historic Resources’ statewide electronic cultural resources GIS and database. It provides interactive views of information in the DHR Archives related to properties, historic districts, and archaeological sites, and presents evaluative information about the historic significance of resources.
Architecture Data Entry Basics [pdf] explains the VCRIS workflow including how to obtain a DHR identification number for a new property and how to update an existing record at the reconnaissance and intensive level. Information about recording historic districts is also included.
Additional Information:
Virginia’s archaeological data is sensitive and protected under the Code of Virginia §2.2-3705.7 (10), the National Historic Preservation Act 54 U.S.C. § 307103(a), and/or the Archaeological Resources Protection Act 6 U.S.C. §§ 470hh(a). DHR limits access to detailed archaeological data accordingly. DHR screens resumes or CVs for qualified individuals (SOI qualified archaeologists, historic preservation planners, agency or tribal cultural resource managers). Qualified individuals are responsible for ensuring that sensitive archaeological data is not misused or inappropriately distributed by any authorized VCRIS users in their organization.
If you or your organization does not meet these qualifications and you still need to conduct research with DHR information, DHR Archives staff can help you find what you need.
Technical Support
For questions, contact Jolene Smith.
Updated April 28, 2020