ncmuseums

An occasional list of exhibits, programs, and events at North Carolina museums. Sponsored by the North Carolina Museums Council.

Monday, July 27, 2009

NCMC Events From Around the State… July 27, 2009

1). Museum of the Albemarle Explore the architecture of Elizabeth City with this hands-on photography workshop at the Museum of the Albemarle, August 5 and 6 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. During this two day photography workshop, 6th-12th grade students will learn about historic architecture and how it has been preserved on many buildings and homes in Elizabeth City. Participants will be supplied with a camera and will explore the downtown area in order to document different architectural features. Student photography will be put on display in the museum.

2). Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens presents African American Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Learn about 300 years of African American history on a walking tour of New Bern’s historic district. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and covers 16 blocks. August 16th at 2 p.m. $4 adults; $2 students. Reservations required.

3). Transylvania Heritage Museum presents Long Legacies: Remarkable Survivals in Appalachian Folklife on Saturday, August 8th, 1 pm – 2 pm: with Charlotte Ross, EdD., Appalachian State University. Renowned storyteller and expert on mountain life, Charlotte’s programs are a treat not to be missed!

4). N.C. State Capitol One of the most important documents authored by John Adams, second president of the United States, was penned following questions from two North Carolinians about governance. That document became “Thoughts on Government, 1776,” and first came to North Carolina as a letter. That handwritten letter will be displayed in a case at the State Capitol July 21-Sept. 8.

5). High Point Museum presents Laundry & Ironing Demonstration in the Historical Park on Saturday, August 8, 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday, August 9, 1 pm to 4 pm. Before washing machines, women devoted entire days to doing household laundry. Come watch our costumed interpreters in action and find out why it took so long. Free. All ages welcome.

6). MESDA The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) at Old Salem Museums & Gardens has announced the launch of its Web site, www.mesda.org. The site officially opened June 15 and over the next year is expected to attract more than one million visitors, Old Salem officials said. It features information about events at MESDA, as well as vivid photos and descriptions of select items from the museum’s extensive collection. Visitors to the museum who missed a past exhibit will be able to take a virtual tour in the site’s Online Exhibits section.

7). House in the Horseshoe State Historic Site A re-enactment of the “fiery” confrontation July 29, 1781, between Patriots and Loyalists will take place Saturday, Aug. 1, and Sunday, Aug. 2, at House in the Horseshoe State Historic Site near Sanford. One of America’s most authentic Revolutionary War battle re-enactments, this program recalls an actual raid and attack by the much-feared Tory leader Col. David Fanning on what was then Whig Col. Philip Alston’s home. Free and open to the public, the 30th annual re-enactment will take place at 4 p.m. Aug. 1 and 2 p.m. Aug. 2.

8). Orange County Historical Museum presents its newest exhibit Reconstruction in Orange County. The Grand Opening is on July 31st 6-9pm. Come to the museum and learn about what happened after the Civil War and enjoy music of "When Cousins Marry" and light refreshments.

9). N.C. Transportation Museum The N.C. Transportation Museum, with support from Ford Motor Company, will host dozens of Ford vehicles, from early Model T’s to the latest in Ford technology during its annual All Ford Show scheduled Saturday, Aug. 1, from 10a.m. to 3 p.m. This year’s theme is A Celebration of Lincolns. Preregistration is recommended.

10). N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher In celebration of Shark Week, July 26-31, the Aquarium at Fort Fisher will be featuring shark-related education programs every 30 minutes, including interactive games, crafts, films, and more! Visitors can also to dig for shark’s teeth in the fossil pit. You may even catch a guest appearance by our shark mascot.

Monday, July 20, 2009

NCMC Events From Around the State… July 20, 2009

1). Transylvania Heritage Museum Saturday, August 8th, 1 pm – 2 pm: Long Legacies: Remarkable Survivals in Appalachian Folklife with Charlotte Ross, EdD., Appalachian State University. Renowned storyteller and expert on mountain life, Charlotte’s programs are a treat not to be missed!

2). Museum of the Albemarle The beach surf documentary Any Given Morning will be shown by the Museum of the Albemarle on Saturday, July 25th at 2:00 pm in the Gaither Auditorium. On hand will be the film’s creator Laurel Hughes. Hughes, a native of Elizabeth City first got the surfing ‘bug’ in 2006 and it bit her hard. Hughes will be on hand after the movie for a question and answer session. Light refreshments will be served.

3). Port Discover Port Discover Day is set for Friday, July 24 at Puddleducks, a children’s clothing shop in Elizabeth City. On July 24 Port Discover educators will bring hands-on science activities to Puddleducks. From microscopes to science experiments, there will be lots of science for youngsters to discover! A portion of all sales that day will benefit Port Discover.

4). N.C. State Capitol Bring lunch to the State Capitol grounds Friday, July 24, for a free concert to celebrate the reopening of the south plaza and south walkways of Capitol Square. Featuring the Southern String Band, this concert will last from noon-1 p.m. and kicks off the Capitol Concert Series, a festive series of free lunchtime performances on the grounds. Although dates are not yet fixed, subsequent concerts will feature various musical genres including both bluegrass and big band.

5). Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens presents I Thee Wedd. Learn about 18th century wedding customs and join in the celebration as Rose, a servant of Governor Tryon, and Thomas start a new life together. August 1st and 15th at 1 p.m. Free with regular admission.

6). Ava Gardner Museum Ava called Ernest Hemingway "Papa," and he called her "Daughter." The accomplished author admired Ava's work in the films based on his works and considered her "the most exciting woman of her generation." To celebrate their special relationship, the Ava Gardner Museum will offer “Buy One, Get One Free” admission next Tuesday, July 21st – Ernest Hemingway’s 110th birthday. Visitors only need to mention that it is Hemingway’s birthday to receive this special discount.

7). Fort Fisher State Historic Site Hear the cannons boom at Fort Fisher as part of a new program, Cannoneers: “Load, Ready, Fire!” On Saturday, July 25, 2009, from 10am to 4pm costumed staff and volunteers will fire the 12 lb bronze Napoleon cannon and teach the public about Civil War artillery. Cannon firings will be at 11:45am and 3:45pm. As a special treat, Fort Fisher also invites kids of all ages to experience the life of a Civil War soldier as you learn period field artillery drill following the demonstrations.

Monday, July 13, 2009

NCMC Events From Around the State… July 13, 2009

1). Asheville Art Museum The Asheville Art Museum, celebrating its 60th anniversary, invites you to meet some of the artists from the exciting exhibition Tradition/Innovation: American Masterpieces of Southern Craft & Traditional Art at a Day of Tradition + Innovation on Sunday, August 16, 2009 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Free with Museum Membership or admission.

2). Mint Museum of Craft & Design Selections from a rich artistic tradition will be displayed at the Mint Museum of Craft + Design beginning this summer in the exhibition American Quilt Classics, 1800-1980: The Bresler Collection. From rare crib quilts to modern Amish textiles, the quilts on view reflect America’s diverse cultural and artistic heritage. Exhibition will be on view July 25, 2009 – February 6, 2010.

3). Port Discover Discover the amazing characteristics of ants and why they are so important during Ant Power!, Port Discover’s July Toddler Time, Thursday, July 16. Ant-themed games, activities, and songs will engage the young entomologists. The program begins at 10 a.m. and reservations are required.

4). Reynolda House Museum of American Art Satisfy your appetite for learning during your lunch hour by visiting Reynolda House Museum of Art for a noon gallery talk on Thursday, July 16 or Thursday, July 23. The talk, led by Managing Curator Allison Slaby, will focus on The Stieglitz Circle: Beyond O’Keeffe, a small focused exhibition located in the Northeast Bedroom Gallery of the historic house.

5). Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum Drop by Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum State Historic Site in Sedalia on Saturday, July 18, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy in its annual African American Heritage Day program. This free program will highlight African American history, music, dance and crafts through performances, storytelling, craft demonstrations and children’s activities.

6). N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences It's the vacation to the tropics you’ve always dreamed of at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' first ever Tropics Day, on Saturday, July 18 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Tropics Day” is a free event happening both inside and outside the Museum that coincides with the Museum's current Traveling Exhibit, “Chocolate: The Exhibition” running now through September 7.

7). The Bascom Some 45 turned wood bowls from the renowned Moulthrop family will be on display as The Bascom presents Moulthrops: Three Generations of Woodturners. The exhibition opens with a free, public reception Saturday, July 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., and continues through Aug. 29. This exhibition of lathe-made bowls will convey the widely acclaimed talents of Matt and Phillip Moulthrop and their late father Edward, who comprise the esteemed family of Georgia craftsmen.

8). The Outer Banks History Center Lots of researchers turn to the Outer Banks History Center (OBHC) in Manteo for information on lighthouses, shipwrecks or even pirates. Thanks to a $40,327 grant awarded to the center from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, that task could prove more productive. The grant will support work of a full-time archivist who will arrange and describe some of the collections for the center’s “Reaching New Audiences” program.

9). Bennett Place State Historic Site Drop by Bennett Place State Historic Site in Durham July 18-19 to experience what life was like in North Carolina for soldiers and civilians alike during the post-Civil War occupation of the state by Union troops. Visitors will have a chance to see authentically-costumed Union troops posted as sentries along Hillsborough Road and view a typical military encampment of the period. The program is free and open to the public. It will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

10). Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum David D. Moore, curator of Nautical Archaeology at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, will give a free public presentation on the Shipwrecked Slaver Henrietta Marie at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras on Wednesday, July 15, at 7 p.m. The Henrietta Marie is the first slave ship wreck in North America that has been seriously studied.

Monday, July 06, 2009

NCMC Events From Around the State… July 6, 2009

1). Museum of the Albemarle Join the Museum of the Albemarle on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm for a high-seas adventure in a one day camp. Participants, completing kindergarten through third grade, will discover the pirates that sailed the coast of North Carolina, the ships that were sailed and the weapons that were used. Enjoy creative activities centered on pirate lore, legend and history. Snacks and box lunch will be provided. Limited space and registration required.

2). Kings Mountain Historical Museum The Kings Mountain Historical Museum’s current exhibit is Toys and Games That We Loved The exhibit will run through the summer closing on August 22, 2009. Featured are toys and games pre 1960 with several waiting to be played such as: Chinese checkers, jacks, marbles, checkers, card games, and coloring.

3). Charlotte Hawkins Brown State Historic Site Already famous for using his camera to shine a harsh light on racism in the American South, Alexander Rivera visited Palmer Memorial Institute in the early 1950s to document life at this prestigious African American prep school. He captured images of students, teachers and administrators far different than the civil rights marches often featured in his photos. Now through Aug.15, visitors to the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum in Sedalia can see the award-winning photographer’s work. Bearing Witness: Civil Rights Photographs of Alexander Rivera is free and open to the public.

4). Roanoke Island Festival Park Roanoke Island Festival Park will celebrate the first landing of English ships in the New World on July 13, 2009. Opening ceremonies will begin at 6 p.m. The event is free. This event is funded through the support of Dominion Power. 425 candles will illuminate the Outdoor Pavilion stage as we kick-off week-long festivities. Several performers will represent 16th century history. Elizabethan interpreters and activities will fill the lawn, and a birthday cake will be cut.

5). Port Discover Learn about the more than 300 black bears that call the Dismal Swamp home at Port Discover’s next Second Saturday Science, Just the Bear Essentials, July 11. Ranger Signa Williams from the Dismal Swamp State Park will use taxidermy mounts, skulls, pictures, and more to present the program highlighting the black bears that inhabit the swamp. “Just the Bear Essentials” will be offered at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

6). N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences The Charles Darwin Lecture Series continues on Thursday, July 9, as Anne Yoder, professor and director of the Duke Lemur Center, presents Madagascar’s Magnificent Biodiversity: What Would Darwin Say? The talk begins at 6:30 p.m. at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh. Yoder’s research focuses on phylogeny and evolution of mammals, conservation genetics, and the historical biogeography and biodiversity of Madagascar, one of the most critical geographic priorities for conservation action worldwide. Please RSVP to museum.reservations@ncmail.net.

7). Greensboro Children’s Museum presents Simply Story Time on Thursday, July 9, 3:30pm. Join us for a special story time this Thursday we take kids away to far away lands, go on amazing adventures and meet lots of exciting characters in the world of make believe

8). Reynolda House Museum of American Art Looking for indoor entertainment as summer temperatures rise? Visit Reynolda House Museum of American Art for a Beat the Heat Tour on Sunday, July 12. The tour starts promptly at 2 p.m. and concludes at 4 p.m. During this behind-the-scenes tour, visitors will see areas of the historic house normally closed to the general public and hear the history behind each location in the 1917 Reynolds home.

9). Fort Fisher State Historic Site Experience Wilmington as you’ve never seen it before! Bob Cooke, author of “Wild, Wicked, Wartime Wilmington”, will share stories of the wicked and wild happenings in Wilmington during the Civil War on Saturday, July 11, 2009. Come early and hear Fort Fisher historian, Ray Flowers lecture on Fort Fisher during the Civil War at 10:30am and stay for Bob Cooke’s talk at 1:00pm when he will entertain with stories of the “murder, malice and other assorted mayhem in N.C.’s largest city during the Civil War.” Book signings will follow the 1:00pm talk.