Did you know Davidson County Historical Museum is a branch of the Davidson County Public Library?
Just like the library, the museum strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Visitors and staff are expected to adhere to Library Use & Behavior Guidelines: https://www.co.davidson.nc.us/947/Library-Use-Behavior-Guidelines
More About the Museum, Our Services, and Facility Use Policy
Museum and Historic Site
The Davidson County Historical Museum is located in the heart of Lexington's Historic District and town square, housed inside the Old Davidson County Courthouse. Built in 1858, the courthouse is a stunning example of Greek Italianate Revival architecture. It is recognized as one of the Southeast's finest examples of Neo-classical temple-form public architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The second-floor courtroom retains its bar, judge's bench, jury box, and holding cell.
Exhibits
The museum offers permanent and rotating exhibits, showcasing material culture spanning 12,000 years of history. Exhibits engage visitors of all ages and learning-styles, and include hands-on opportunities to learn and play. Walk-in, self-guided visits are welcome, and admission is free. Field trips are available year-round can be scheduled and customized by contacting the museum. See the museum website for more information on planning a visit: https://www.davidsoncountyhistoricalmuseum.com/
The Collection
The permanent collection now includes over 17,000 artifacts, managed and protected according to the Collections Policy. This policy guides acquisitions, incoming and outgoing loans, deaccessioning, and collections care. The policy is available online at: https://www.davidsoncountyhistoricalmuseum.com/donations
To increase the accessibility of the permanent collection, catalog records can be searched on the online collections database at: https://www.davidsoncountyhistoricalmuseum.com/collection
Research
The museum maintains and is expanding a research library called the Vertical Files, which holds a collection of primary and secondary sources used to support ongoing research into Davidson County’s history. Research conducted by the museum is shared through exhibits, publications, and programs. The museum also provides research assistance and resources to the public. For an opportunity to sit down and receive face-to-face genealogical and local history research assistance, the museum recommends visiting the Davidson County Genealogy/Local History Room: https://www.co.davidson.nc.us/295/Genealogy-Local-History
Programs
Year-round programming is offered on and off-site, including guest speakers, walking tours, special activities and experiences, virtual content, and community events. These programs align with the museum’s mission and support local tourism and county residents' quality of life. Check the museum’s Facebook or Events Page for updates on upcoming programs.
Invited Guests, Presenters, Event Collaborators
The museum often collaborates with outside organizations or individuals to provide programming. These activities are considered museum-sponsored programs. An invitation by the museum does not constitute an endorsement, and collaborators must adhere to the Library/Museum Use and Behavior Guidelines: https://www.co.davidson.nc.us/947/Library-Use-Behavior-Guidelines
Facility Use
Facility Unavailable for Non-Museum-Sponsored Private Events
The museum does not provide space for private events and will not interrupt regularly scheduled public programming for events that are not sponsored by the museum. Furthermore, venue rentals after hours are unavailable for non-museum-sponsored activities.
Public Demonstrations and Event Guidelines
The Town Square, including the museum's exterior and surrounding areas, is frequently used for public demonstrations and events. Please adhere to the following guidelines when organizing a demonstration or event. For inquiries and permit applications concerning the use of the historic courthouse grounds, please contact the Davidson County Manager’s Office.
Accessibility Compliance: All demonstrations and public events must comply with ADA accessibility standards. Entrances, exits, and ramps must remain visible and accessible, with all egress points unobstructed at all times.
Temporary Displays: Temporary displays for events are permitted; however, the method of display must not result in any structural alterations or damage to the building. All tape, ropes, and similar items must be removed promptly after use.
Post-Event Cleanup: All equipment, objects, and debris must be removed from the property immediately following the event's conclusion. The area must be restored to substantially the same condition as it was prior to the event.
Candle Usage: The use of flameless battery-powered or rechargeable candles is permitted during vigils, memorials, and other ceremonies. The use of real flame candles is strongly discouraged. If used, drip protectors, guards, and holders must be employed to prevent wax from staining the porous surfaces of the courthouse porch and stairs. Candles must never be left unattended.
Reporting Incidents: Any damage or accidents must be reported immediately to the Davidson County Manager’s Office, or as soon as the office reopens for business: https://www.co.davidson.nc.us/167/County-Manager