About Us

About Governor’s Architectural Salvage

Central Virginia’s destination for architectural salvage, antique ironwork & reclaimed building materials

Founded in 1970 by the late Gary Thomas, Governor’s Architectural Salvage (formerly Governor’s Antiques & Architectural Materials) has grown from a small local shop into one of Central Virginia’s most complete sources for reclaimed building materials and antique architectural elements. For more than 50 years, we’ve helped homeowners, builders, preservationists, and designers bring authentic history and craftsmanship into every kind of project.

From fine antiques to architectural salvage

In 2019, we shifted our focus to what defines us today: architectural salvage. Our inventory includes:

• Historic doors and windows

• Vintage and antique lighting

• Clawfoot tubs and vintage plumbing fixtures

• Antique mantels, trim, and millwork

• Reclaimed wood, beams, and flooring

• Wrought iron fencing, gates, railings, and hardware

• Garden ornaments, columns, and stonework

Many of our pieces are reclaimed from historic Richmond-area homes, buildings, and estates across Virginia—each one with a story, ready for a second life.

Custom ironwork & metal fabrication near Richmond, VA

What sets us apart is our on-site iron fabrication shop. We provide custom welding, repairs, restoration, and fabrication for residential and commercial clients throughout Richmond and Central Virginia, including:

• Custom wrought iron gates, fences, and railings

• Restoration and replication of antique iron and steel

• Ornamental and structural ironwork

• Architectural hardware repair and fabrication

From restoring a 19th-century gate to creating a custom iron feature for a modern build, our team blends traditional craftsmanship with precision tools for lasting quality and design integrity.

An ever-changing salvage inventory

With millions of items in stock, Governor’s is a Richmond-area landmark for people who love history, architecture, and design. Our inventory changes daily—so no two visits are ever the same. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see what’s new in-store, from reclaimed wood and salvaged doors to antique lighting, mantels, and architectural ironwork.

Visit us in Mechanicsville—minutes from Richmond

Our 7-acre property in Mechanicsville, Virginia, just five miles outside Richmond, is open to the public and packed with one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner, contractor, designer, or collector, we invite you to stop by, explore, and get inspired.

Governor’s Architectural Salvage
Built for those who love the past—and know how to make it part of the future.

Why choose Governor’s

• One of Virginia’s largest architectural salvage destinations

• Specialists in antique ironwork, custom welding, and metal fabrication

• Serving Richmond, Mechanicsville, Ashland, Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover, and Goochland

• Locally owned and operated since 1970

• Dedicated to preservation, sustainability, and reuse