News & Events

Caldwell County has a rich history that dates all the way back to pre-colonial days.  Since 1991, its documents and artifacts have been carefully preserved for study and appreciation by generations to come at the fascinating Caldwell Heritage Museum in Lenoir, one of the best mountain towns in the foothills.

And there’s quite a story to be told there – one that begins with Native American arrowheads and spears, continues with an extensive collection of early land grants, deeds and maps and takes the visitor along as Lenoir is established as the county seat and develops over the years into a railroad terminus and a center of furniture manufacturing.

Nearly two dozen permanent displays focus upon the following areas of interest:

• Native Americans (pre-1763)
  
• Pioneer/Revolutionary (1763-1841)
  
• Formation of the County (1841-1861)
  
• Civil War (1861-1865)
  
• County Progresses (1865-1900)
  
• The Fire Department (1877)
  
• The Railroad (1884)
  
• Furniture Industry (1889)
  
• The 20th Century (1900-1950)

Many of the exhibits are set aside in special areas, such as Caldwell County Music, Early American Room, Military Room, Tools Room, Caldwell County Schools, Medical Room, Toys And Games, Clothing, and Reading Room.  Local retirees, hobbyists and collectors especially enjoy the special collections of loaned items that are on display for short periods of time each year.

Like other North Carolina mountain communities, Lenoir drew settlers who were attracted to its remarkable scenery, climate and abundant natural resources – things that make owning Caldwell County real estate such a wonderful family legacy, even today.  One can only imagine the reactions of those who first encountered the breathtaking beauty of the foothills and decided to take up residence.  Many Lenoir NC events are tied to the culture and traditions of this very special area.

Lenoir residents with interest or expertise in certain subjects find the Caldwell Heritage Museum ready to let them share their knowledge or learn more from others at the varied and very informative “Coffee With The Curator” talks each month.  Anyone can facilitate a program, and ideas are always welcome.  Subjects for discussion in 2016 include:

• Caldwell County Radio
• There Must Be Something In The Water
• Fort Defiance
• Little Known Evidence About Frankie Silver
• Tom Dooley – Wilkes County Legend
• Celebrating The U. S. Constitution
• Before They Were Heroes At Kings Mountain

The museum is an especially good resource for teachers who want their students to gain an in-depth knowledge of Caldwell County history.  It’s supported by private donations and governed by a Board of Directors elected by the Caldwell County Historical Society.

Caldwell Heritage Museum

112 Vaiden Street, Lenoir, NC 28645

(828) 758-4004

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday: 10:00am – 4:30pm

Wednesday: 10:00am – 4:30pm

Thursday: 10:00am – 4:30pm

Friday: 10:00am – 4:30pm

Saturday: 9:00am – 12:00pm

Sunday and Monday: Closed 

Other times are available by appointment. 

Thanks to resources like the Caldwell Heritage Museum, North Carolina mountain communities continue to be an attractive destination for people who want to retire and stay active in both mind and body.  There’s always something new here to learn, do or experience.  Just look at a Lenoir, North Carolina, events calendar and you’ll see what we mean.

The beauty of owning Caldwell County real estate is that there are four distinct seasons in the foothills, all of them perfect for beautiful outdoor living.  Sheltered by the Blue Ridge and Brushy Mountains, Lenoir sits in a valley where there’s no major snow, wind or oppressive summer heat.

So many people have already discovered the benefits of living at Lenoir’s most respected mountain community – The Coves Mountain River Club.  Activities on the Johns River and other recreation facilities can be enjoyed year-round.   For snow skiers or summer mountain bikers, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountains and Blowing Rock are less than an hour away.  The Coves Mountain River Club is not far from the high-quality health care, reliable shopping and festivals that are part of a good life.

With our attractive low prices on homesites, river frontage property for sale and estate land parcels, plus the easy access to great fishing, hiking, swimming, horseback riding and other activities, we know The Coves is truly the best of all possible worlds when it comes to an ideal retirement lifestyle in Western North Carolina.

When you’re in the area, why not set aside some time to visit The Coves Mountain River Club? We’re confident you’ll be so glad you did.

Call us directly at 828.754.0700 to schedule a tour.

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84-page complimentary Western North Carolina Visitor’s Guide, which gives you more information about living in the foothills of North Carolina.