Education is at the heart of everything we do!

We believe that informed communities are empowered communities. Through our programs, resources, and partnerships, we equip individuals with the knowledge they need to make a lasting impact!

Education Programs:

Discover the many ways history comes to life with our dynamic education programs at the Historical Association of Catawba County—there’s something engaging, enriching, and hands-on for every age and interest!

American Revolution: Interactive Learning

Starting January 25, 2025, we are proud to launch our educational exhibit The American Revolution: 250 Years of Struggles, Triumphs, & Values, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This immersive, long-term exhibit explores the complex legacy of the American Revolution—highlighting 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 and beyond. Designed with education at its core, the exhibit includes engaging, curriculum-aligned tours tailored specifically for local schools. These tours will be 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 experiences. Through this initiative, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of American history and civic values in the next generation of learners.

Hands-on History Lecture Series

The Hands-on History lecture series at the HACC is designed to educate and engage the public by bringing history to life through interactive talks and demonstrations. As part of this ongoing program, the HACC regularly invites experts from a wide range of historical fields and specialties to share their knowledge on diverse topics—from archaeology and military history to cultural traditions and historical preservation. Past lectures have included subjects such as 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. These engaging presentations offer community members of all ages a unique opportunity to explore the past in an accessible, enriching, and often hands-on way.

Tours & On-Site Programming

We proudly offer educational tours of the Harper House, Murray’s Mill, and the History Museum of Catawba County for school groups, giving students a meaningful, hands-on experience with our region’s diverse and fascinating past. Can’t come to us? No problem—our on-site programming brings history directly to your classroom. Our knowledgeable staff, dressed in period costume, deliver interactive lectures and engaging activities based on a variety of historical topics. Schools can choose from themed programs such as Settlers of Catawba County, Victorian Age Catawbans, Murray’s Mill in the 1930s, or Revolutionary Catawbans, each designed to spark curiosity and deepen students’ understanding of local and national history.

Educational School Tours

Book an educational tour today at the Harper House, Murray’s Mill, or the History Museum of Catawba County! Perfect for school groups, each site offers an engaging, hands-on experience that brings our region’s rich and diverse history to life.

On-Site Programming

Our on-site programs are perfect for schools and educational events—let our knowledgeable staff, dressed in period costume, engage your students with interactive presentations and hands-on activities rooted in local and national history. Choose from themed programs like Settlers of Catawba County, Victorian Age Catawbans, Murray’s Mill in the 1930s, or Revolutionary Catawbans.

Schedule Tour

Schedule Programing

Educational Worksheets and Activities!

Our downloadable worksheets give kids—and curious adults—a chance to engage hands-on with their museum experience. These activities are designed to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and make learning interactive. Currently, we offer the Exploration Station, where you choose an exhibit and artifact to research as you explore the galleries, and the Junior Exhibit Builder, which challenges you to design your own exhibit by selecting a single artifact, planning a layout, and coordinating supporting pieces. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding or simply explore in a new way, our worksheets turn every visit into a creative learning adventure.

Education Exploration Station.pdf

Junior Exhibit Builder.pdf

In Their Words: Vietnam Veterans of Catawba County

In Their Words is an oral history project dedicated to preserving the voices and memories of Catawba County’s Vietnam veterans. Through recorded interviews and personal reflections, this project captures the experiences, challenges, and resilience of those who served during one of America’s most complex conflicts. Each story offers a powerful, firsthand perspective on courage, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of war—both abroad and at home.

Developed by the Historical Association of Catawba County, this project ensures that the voices of local veterans are heard, honored, and remembered by future generations. In Their Words stands as both a tribute and a living record of the men and women whose service helped shape our community and our nation.

In Their Words: Max Hedrick Jr.

⚠️ Content Advisory: This interview includes personal accounts and descriptions related to war and combat. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for those who may be sensitive to the topic or affected by PTSD.

In this first installment of In Their Words: Vietnam Veterans of Catawba County, we sit down with Max Hedrick Jr., a Catawba County native who shares his story of service during the Vietnam War.

Through his honest reflections, Max offers a glimpse into the daily life of a soldier, the challenges faced overseas, and the enduring bonds formed through shared experience. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep sense of duty—both to his fellow servicemen and to the community he returned home to.

Join us as Max recounts his journey in his own words, preserving a powerful piece of local and national history for future generations.