Featured Exhibit

Now in the Perry Rudnick Foundation Room

A commemoration of the sesquicentennial anniversary of the American Civil War.

This new Civil War exhibit features artifacts including:

"An authentic 35 Star "Old Glory" Flag and authentic Confederate "Stars and Bars" Flag.
SC Robinson Confederate Sharps rifle.
Full dress uniforms of a field Artilleryman, 1865 Union.
Infantryman and the Henderson County "Home Guard".

This extensive collection of never-before-seen military weaponry & accoutrements, dating back 150 years, is open to the public free of charge.

WW1: Three years in the Trenches

Now showing in the Archive Room of the Heritage Corridor, an expanded exhibit on WW1, our local involvement & a survey of WW1 aviation. Come see the full scale reproduction of a western front trench and selected boards from the full exhibit previously on display in the Bo Thomas room.

Also showing is a one hour video loop containing amazing archive footage of the war, a tour of WW1 aircraft featured at the WNC Air museum & a fifteen minute biplane ride in it's entirety - filmed in hi-def over Henderson County. That's right, come take a virtual biplane ride from the pilots POV right in our exhibit hall! Can you spot Jackson Park, the Vulcan Rock Quarry & Jump Off Rock from 700ft.? Can you tell when the plane does a "lazy eight" flight pattern?

We invite you on a journey to yesterday

On your journey we want you to visit with the people, learn of their contributions, and reflect on milestone events that helped shape their lives and Henderson County, North Carolina.

We would like for you to view "evidences of yesterday" that will remind you of the heritage that has been the legacy of this county's pioneers. Colorful exhibits, diorama, educational programs, research, and collections reflect how the people of this county responded to their cultural, educational, political, and natural environments.

This Museum collects, preserves, researches, and exhibits a collection of historical and cultural artifacts. The process takes many shapes, forms, and media.

This museum, found within the Henderson County Historic Courthouse, seeks to preserve history and a sense of place. Consisting of six rooms, approximately 2000 square feet, the Museum spaces are designed for flexibility, capability, and versatility.

The Heritage Museum partners with other organizations that focus on "history and community" and provides services, upon request, to groups and individuals.

This Museum promotes appreciation for the people who have created and developed this county.

Welcome to the Henderson County Heritage Museum.

Current Events

Check out our new commercial on Morris Cable TV announcing "The Coming of the Railroad" exhibit

Mission Statement

"The Henderson County Heritage Museum captures, promotes and celebrates our rich history and culture and engages residents and the greater community in preserving that heritage for present and future generations."

Hours Of Operation
Wednesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Call us at (828)694-1619

Our Newest Exhibit

Now in the Champion Hills Room

"School Days: Early Education in Henderson County"

Come in to see how our public educational system has grown from the first school in Mills River in 1797 to fifty one schools in 1900 to the consolidation of 1931. Extensive research awaits you in the eight school binders, by Bill Barnwell, that document the beginnings of education in Henderson County.

Coming Soon

Take a sneak peek at our upcoming exhibit "The Golden Age - Coming of the Railroad" with preview video tours of the Saluda Grade diorama built by the Apple Valley Model Railroad Club & Golden Age models build by Knox Crowell.

Thanks to our sponsors

The Museum wishes to thank our county & media sponsors