The City of Raleigh Museum (COR) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of North Carolina’s capital city. Located in downtown Raleigh, the museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, from its earliest days as a sleepy town to its current status as a bustling hub of culture and commerce. This must-visit museum is located at 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Established in 1993, the COR occupies a beautifully restored 1874 Victorian-era building that was once the Briggs Hardware Store. The building’s elegant architecture and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect setting for the museum’s collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. Learn more
One of the highlights of the COR is its permanent exhibit, “Raleigh through Time,” which takes visitors on a chronological journey through the city’s history. The exhibit begins with the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area, and moves on to explore the arrival of European settlers, the rise of the antebellum South, the Civil War, and the Reconstruction era.
Throughout the exhibit, visitors can examine a wide range of artifacts, from pottery and tools used by Native Americans to Civil War-era rifles and uniforms. Interactive displays allow visitors to explore what life was like for Raleigh residents during different periods in the city’s history, such as the early 1900s, the post-World War II boom, and the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
In addition to its permanent exhibit, the COR also features a rotating series of special exhibits that explore different aspects of Raleigh’s history. Recent exhibits have focused on topics such as the city’s role in the civil rights movement, the history of Raleigh’s LGBTQ+ community, and the impact of World War II on the city.
Visitors to the COR can also participate in a variety of educational programs and events, including guided tours, lectures, and workshops. The museum’s popular “History Hike” series takes visitors on walking tours of different neighborhoods and landmarks throughout the city, while the “Storytime at the Museum” program offers interactive storytelling and crafts for young children.
One of the most unique aspects of the COR is its commitment to preserving and sharing the stories of all of Raleigh’s residents, including those from marginalized communities. The museum has worked to ensure that its exhibits and programs reflect the diverse experiences of Raleigh’s residents, and has partnered with local organizations to help tell these important stories.
For example, the museum’s recent “Community Stories” exhibit featured oral histories from members of Raleigh’s African American, Latino, and LGBTQ+ communities, highlighting the important contributions these groups have made to the city’s history and culture.
Overall, the City of Raleigh Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of North Carolina’s capital city. With its engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and commitment to inclusivity, the COR offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the past, present, and future of Raleigh. Whether you’re a longtime resident of the city or just visiting for the first time, the COR is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Browse around this site
