By: Jordan Meadows, Staff Writer
The North Carolina Museum of History, a cherished institution affiliated with the Smithsonian, is set to undergo a transformative renovation that will redefine how visitors engage with the state’s history.
The extensive project is expected to take two to three years and will include significant upgrades to the museum’s exhibits and facilities.
Established in 1902 as the Hall of History, the museum began its phased closure on June 3 when the third-floor exhibits shut down. The entire museum building closed its doors to the public on October 7. However, the Museum Shop will remain open until December 29, allowing visitors to purchase mementos and gifts during the transition period.
“We’re embarking on an incredible journey, and what awaits us on the other side is nothing short of extraordinary — reimagined exhibits that will bring North Carolina history to life,” said Brad Wilson, interim director of the N.C. Museum of History.
The renovation will be the first major update since the museum opened in its current location on 5 East Edenton Street in 1994.
Planned improvements include the replacement of the building’s HVAC system, the installation of a new freight elevator, and essential repairs to address leaks throughout the facility. Additionally, the museum will safely relocate its collection of 150,000 artifacts to ensure their preservation during the renovation.
While the physical museum undergoes this significant transformation, the museum remains committed to education and public engagement. Students and educators across North Carolina will have access to digital resources, and a variety of virtual programs and live events will be available to the public throughout the renovation period. Plans for immersive digital exhibit tours are also in development.
In the lead-up to the closure, the museum encouraged the community to visit and experience its current exhibitions, which culminated in a special celebration. The Longleaf Film Festival on May 10 and 11, 2024, was the museum’s final major event before the transformation began, featuring films that highlight North Carolina’s deep cultural heritage.
Funding for the $180 million project, authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly and Governor Roy Cooper, comes from the state budget. The museum received $39.2 million in the last budget. The museum gets 465,000 visitors a year, including over 83,000 schoolchildren, according to its website.
Its square footage won’t change, but the renovations will make the museum “feel energetic and alive,” with “more information, more opportunity for interactive, colorful displays,” Wilson said.
The North Carolina Museum of History hosted its largest exhibit, The Story of North Carolina, from 2011 to 2024. This expansive display showcased over 14,000 years of the state’s history, highlighting everything from its earliest inhabitants to the 20th century. Visitors could explore a variety of artifacts, multimedia presentations, dioramas, and interactive elements.
Another significant event is the African American Cultural Celebration, which marks the beginning of Black History Month in North Carolina. This vibrant celebration includes presentations, demonstrations, and performances that honor the contributions of African Americans to the state’s history and culture.
The upcoming renovation project is expected to take two to three years to complete.
The North Carolina Museum of History hosted its largest exhibit, The Story of North Carolina, from 2011 to 2024. This expansive display showcased over 14,000 years of the state’s history, highlighting everything from its earliest inhabitants to the 20th century. Visitors could explore a variety of artifacts, multimedia presentations, dioramas, and interactive elements.
Another significant event is the African American Cultural Celebration, which marks the beginning of Black History Month in North Carolina. This vibrant celebration includes presentations, demonstrations, and performances that honor the contributions of African Americans to the state’s history and culture.
The upcoming renovation project is expected to take two to three years to complete.
