Events & Programs
Education is at the heart of everything we do
We believe informed communities are empowered communities. Through our programs, resources, and partnerships, we equip individuals with the knowledge to make a lasting impact.
Discover the many ways history comes to life with our dynamic education programs — there’s something engaging, enriching, and hands-on for every age and interest.
The American Revolution: Interactive Learning
Our long-term educational exhibit, The American Revolution: 250 Years of Struggles, Triumphs, & Values, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This immersive exhibit explores the complex legacy of the Revolution — not only the pivotal battles and founding ideals, but also the everyday lives, diverse experiences, and lasting struggles that shaped the nation’s path to independence. Curriculum-aligned tours are tailored for local schools and led by costumed docent guides from our local Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chapters, who bring history to life through storytelling, interpretation, and hands-on learning.
Hands-on History Lecture Series
The Hands-on History lecture series educates and engages the public by bringing history to life through interactive talks and demonstrations. We regularly invite experts from a wide range of historical fields — from archaeology and military history to cultural traditions and preservation. Past lectures have included the history of the Plott Hound, North Carolina’s official state dog, and dramatic interpretations of historic speeches performed by a descendant of Patrick Henry.
Tours & On-Site Programming
We offer educational tours of the Harper House, Murray’s Mill, and the History Museum of Catawba County for school groups — a meaningful, hands-on experience with our region’s past. Can’t come to us? Our on-site programming brings history directly to your classroom: knowledgeable staff, dressed in period costume, deliver interactive lectures and activities. Schools can choose from themed programs such as Settlers of Catawba County, Victorian Age Catawbans, Murray’s Mill in the 1930s, or Revolutionary Catawbans.
Book a Program
Bring your students to a site, or bring a costumed program to your classroom.
Worksheets & Activities
Our downloadable worksheets give kids — and curious adults — a chance to engage hands-on with their museum experience. The Exploration Station invites you to choose an exhibit and artifact to research as you explore the galleries, and the Junior Exhibit Builder challenges you to design your own exhibit by selecting an artifact, planning a layout, and coordinating supporting pieces. Ask our staff for a copy on your next visit.
In Their Words: Vietnam Veterans of Catawba County
In Their Words is an oral history project preserving the voices and memories of Catawba County’s Vietnam veterans. Through recorded interviews and personal reflections, it captures the experiences, challenges, and resilience of those who served during one of America’s most complex conflicts — ensuring their stories are heard, honored, and remembered by future generations.
Content advisory: these interviews include personal accounts related to war and combat. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for those affected by PTSD.
Max Hedrick Jr.
In this first installment, we sit down with Max Hedrick Jr., a Catawba County native who shares his story of service during the Vietnam War — a glimpse into the daily life of a soldier, the challenges faced overseas, and the enduring bonds formed through shared experience.
Ric Vandette
A longtime educator and veteran, Ric Vandette shares powerful experiences from his service during the Vietnam War — insight into the realities of combat, the emotional weight carried by soldiers, and the lifelong process of understanding and healing.