Ethnology museums in North Carolina

The Oconaluftee Indian Village, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a replica of an 18th-century eastern Cherokee community. Founded in 1952, the village is situated along the scenic Oconaluftee River, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past of the Cherokee people.

The Folk Art Center, situated at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina, is a museum dedicated to Appalachian arts and crafts. This location is a hub for the appreciation and understanding of the rich artistic traditions of the Appalachian region.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is a significant location as it preserves the site of Roanoke Colony, which was the first English settlement in the present-day United States. This site was established in 1587 and was backed by entrepreneurs led by Englishman Sir Walter Raleigh. However, the colony failed between 1587 and 1590 due to the failure of supply ships to arrive on time. When the site was revisited, it was found to be abandoned with no survivors. The fate of this 'Lost Colony' remains a celebrated mystery, although it is widely believed that the settlers likely assimilated into local indigenous tribes.

The North Carolina Museum of History, situated in downtown Raleigh, is a significant historical institution that is affiliated with the Smithsonian Affiliations program. This affiliation allows the museum to share resources and collaborate with the Smithsonian Institution, enhancing the museum's offerings and providing visitors with a rich and diverse experience.

The Town Creek Indian Mound is a significant archaeological site located near Mount Gilead in Montgomery County, North Carolina. This prehistoric site was home to the Pee Dee, a South Appalachian Mississippian culture people, who thrived in the region from as early as 980 CE. The site features a platform mound, a surrounding village, and a wooden defensive palisade, all of which offer a glimpse into the lives of the Pee Dee people.

Somerset Place, located near Creswell in Washington County, North Carolina, is a former plantation that now serves as a State Historic Site. It is situated along the northern shore of Lake Phelps and is under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. This site offers a glimpse into the history of the region and the life on a plantation.

The Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace is a significant historic site situated in Weaverville, Buncombe County, North Carolina. The site is under the management of the North Carolina Division of State Historic Sites. It offers a glimpse into the past, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region.

The Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, opened in 1988, is a regional branch of the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh. It is dedicated to the history and cultural heritage of southern North Carolina and is located in Fayetteville. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region's past, making it a valuable destination for those interested in understanding the area's history.

The Levine Museum of the New South is a history museum situated in Charlotte, North Carolina. The museum's exhibits primarily focus on life in the North Carolina Piedmont region following the American Civil War. This provides a unique perspective on the region's history and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history.

Stagville Plantation, situated in Durham County, North Carolina, holds a significant place in American history as it was part of one of the largest plantation complexes in the South. This vast complex, with buildings dating from the late 18th to the mid-19th century, provides a unique insight into the region's past.

The Museum of the Albemarle, situated in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, functions as the northeastern regional branch of the North Carolina Museum of History. This location is significant as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and culture of the northeastern region of North Carolina.

West Point on the Eno is a city park and historical center located in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina. The park spans a vast area of 412 acres, offering ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy. It's not just a park, but also a historical center that provides a glimpse into the region's past.

Collection of African American artifacts and documents, plus nature trail behind the complex.

Tiny museum, but filled with artifacts of Native Americans from all over the country.

The Hickory Ridge History Museum, located in Boone, North Carolina, is a unique destination that focuses on the Colonial era. It is situated next to the 'Horn In The West' Outdoor Drama, providing a comprehensive historical experience for visitors. The museum offers a deep dive into the past, allowing tourists to explore the rich history of the region.

The Museum of Coastal Carolina is a natural history museum situated in the beautiful locale of Ocean Isle Beach in Brunswick County, North Carolina. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the region, making it an interesting destination for tourists who are interested in nature and history.

The Mountain Gateway Museum and Heritage Center is a part of the North Carolina Museum of History. It primarily focuses on the Southern Appalachian heritage, and the culture and history of western North Carolina. This museum is a great place to learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

The Rowan Museum is situated in a courthouse from the 19th century in Salisbury, North Carolina. This courthouse is historically significant as it survived Stoneman’s Raid. This gives the museum a unique historical context and adds to the overall experience of visiting the museum.