The museum’s collection of more than 30,000 objects reflects almost 100 years of collecting. These tangible pieces of history illustrate the social, economic and cultural life of the Greensboro region and connect us to the local, regional and American narrative. Our mission, “to establish a collective memory that helps us address contemporary issues, celebrate our diversity and appreciate our unique history,” guides the work we do to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret our collections.
Our buildings are our largest artifacts and a cornerstone in the downtown cultural district. The main structure, formerly First Presbyterian Church, is listed in the National Register of Historic Buildings and illustrates classic Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Four 18th and 19th century historic structures are located in Richardson Park: the Christian Isley House, the Francis McNairy House, the Hockett Blacksmith Shop and the Hockett Woodworking Shop.
Objects in our collection date from several thousand years ago to the present. Major holdings include Native American artifacts, militaria beginning with the Revolutionary War, costumes, textiles, tools, furniture, decorative arts and toys.
Significant collections feature short story author O. Henry, First Lady Dolley Madison, the John and Isabelle Murphy Confederate Firearms, Joan and Arthur Bluethenthal Jugtown Pottery, and the Robert and Capelia McKinney Historical and Commemorative Glassware collection.
Please enjoy learning more about our collections and the work we do.
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