The NC Museum of History is closing its doors to the public for renovations starting October 7. The museum gift shop will remain open until Dec. 29. The Museum expects to remain closed for a period of two or three years, with an exact re-opening date undetermined. The museum closed the third-floor exhibits earlier this year in June.
This is the first major renovation of the museum since it first opened in 1993. It will return with “reimagined exhibits and interactive experiences that will offer deeper insights into North Carolina’s vibrant past” according to the latest press release from the museum.
When asked about his thoughts on the renovation, senior Jackson Hinnant said, “It seems like a long time to renovate. If they need the time they should take it, but it better be worth it.”
As part of the renovation the museum will be installing a new freight elevator, replacing the current HVAC system, and fixing leaks. The museum will relocate its collection of approximately 150,000 artifacts to a secure and environmentally sound location to ensure their preservation for future research and display.
The museum encourages everyone to visit the museum before it closes. Although the museum in Raleigh is closed, they encourage people to use online resources such as digital exhibit tours available on the museum website. The museum also offers in-person programs state-wide. All information for these resources and events are available on the museum website.