Catawba County Museum of History

The History Museum of Catawba County grants unique insight to the county's history through a series of permanent and rotating exhibits. This destination is a perfect stop for history buffs seeking one-of-a-kind artifacts, Hickory Metro residents looking for a deeper understanding of their heritage, or visitors searching for a better understanding of what makes this community special. The museum is housed in a Renaissance Revival courthouse built in 1924 and included on the National Register of Historic Places.

Parking and public transportation at the History Museum of Catawba County
The site is best served by personal automobile, and there is ample on-street parking including handicapped accessible spaces. The Hickory Metro's Greenway Public Transportation bus system serves stops within a couple of blocks of the museum.

Best and worst time to go to the History Museum of Catawba County
The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The museum is a regular stop for school groups, so a visit early in the day avoids those types of audiences. A weekend visit promises greater attendance, but the museum is large enough to accommodate a crowd. Be sure to allow enough time to tour the museum thoroughly.

Admission to the History Museum of Catawba County
There is no admission fee to enter the museum, although donations are welcomed. The museum is fully handicapped accessible.

Must see/do at the History Museum of Catawba County
Artifacts from the county's agricultural, military, textile and furniture heritage are always on display, along with a nod to the county's place in automobile racing lore. Be sure to see the pistol allegedly stolen from one of "Stoneman's Raiders," a Revolution-era British "Red Coat" and the 1930s racecar. Visit the museum's events page for updates on rotating exhibits that offer an in-depth glimpse into the museum extensive archives.

Other places to visit near the History Museum of Catawba County
Situated in downtown Newton, the museum is a short walk from a variety of locally owned retail shops and restaurants. The Old Post Office Playhouse, adjacent to the museum, is a one-of-a-kind performance place. The Catawba County Library's main branch is a short walk from the museum. The nearby State Cinema, built in 1937, is one of the region's few remaining examples of movie theaters from the "Silver Screen" era.

Insider tip for visitors to History Museum of Catawba County
Visit the museum in August, when Newton hosts Soldiers Reunion, the nation's longest running military celebration not connected to a major national holiday. The annual celebration includes a week of activities surrounding the courthouse and exhibits at the museum. The week culminates with Reunion Day on the third Thursday of August.

Author's bio: Michael Willard is a resident of the Hickory, N.C., Metro, where he contributes to local, regional and statewide print and broadcast media. He enjoys discovering outdoor adventures with his family and attending live sporting events.