Avery County Historical Museum

The Avery County Historical Museum housed in the old Avery County Jail was built in 1912 and set aside as a museum in October 1976 as part of the Avery County Bicentennialcelebration. The purpose of the Museum is to collect, preserve and display all vital information, photographs and artifacts about people, events, and places that make up the history of Avery County and the surrounding areas.

Every room either has a new display or past displays combined with new items that expands the focus of the room.

The new "Military Room" honors the contributions of service people from Avery County throughout US history and the roles they played during war times. On display are a variety of uniforms worn in various wars, documents and other artifacts.

The "Mountain Medicine Room" features early doctoring practices, herbal medicines and home remedies, midwifery and the history of early medical practices in the area.

The "School Room" has been expanded to also include the history of Avery County Schools.

"The Mountain Dance and Music Room" focuses on the history and traditions of mountain music.

You won't want to miss visiting the 90 year old jail cells that was the original Avery County jail. The "guest list" kept by the jailer is also on display.

And best of all the genealogy section of the Museum has been expanded to include two rooms with more space to set down, spread out and do research. A computer is set-up to do research on-line.

In addition, a selection of local and regional books can be purchased at the Museum.

The Museum is open April-October from 10-3 and other times by appointment.