Visit Charlotte, the state’s largest city, for its historic attractions and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Explore the modern city center, known as Uptown, where you can find such attractions as the Levine Museum of the New South, which explores post-Civil War history in the South, as well as Discovery Place and the NASCAR Hall of Fame, which celebrates the sport of auto racing. You may even see a NASCAR race, and take home one of the state’s many NASCAR races.
Billy Graham’s birthplace
Visiting Billy Graham’s birthplace in Charlotte, NC, is a great way to learn about this inspirational religious leader and his life. You can also take a tour of his original home. There are plenty of other things to do in Charlotte, North Carolina. If you’re a fan of Billy Graham’s works, he’s a must-see attraction. The original home is now a museum and open for tours.
Billy Graham grew up on a dairy farm in Charlotte. At 16, he answered an altar call during a tent revival organized by traveling evangelist Mordecai Ham. Since then, he’s become one of the world’s most influential religious leaders. Even if he’s no longer living in Charlotte, his legacy is still felt today. Whether you’re a Christian or not, he’s a great part of the city’s history.
Colonial Revival architecture
The Paul H. Rogers House is a fine example of Colonial Revival architecture in Charlotte, North Carolina. This mansion was built in 1927 by a prominent Hartsville industrialist, who later became mayor. The house was designed by local architect Franklin Gordon. It has a rectangular plan, five-bay facade, and a hip roof. It also features a one-story stoop and an iron balustraded balcony. In addition, the house has a single-leaf six-panel door with a capstan top.
A typical Charlotte home reflects the royal history of the city. A house with an elaborate French façade may be considered a ‘Renaissance’ home, but there is no doubt that it has more contemporary characteristics than its historical counterpart. The most distinctive features of a Colonial Revival home are the gable roof, shingle-style windows, and chimney. Other details are a testament to the owner’s affluence.
Confederate Navy Yard
In 1862, the Confederate Navy Yard Charlotte, North Carolina, was established to replace the navy yard in Norfolk, Virginia. The Confederacy lost this yard during the War Between the States, so the secretary of the navy, Stephen Mallory, ordered his commander to begin planning for a new site. Charlotte, with its railroad connections to coastal cities, was the best choice. The Confederacy purchased the property and moved the first pieces of equipment there in May of 1862.
The Charlotte Navy Yard did not build actual ships, but it was a key component of the Confederate navy. In addition to making gun carriages, it cast munitions, shells, and other large forgings. Many Norfolk workers came to work in Charlotte, where they cast gunshot into small spheres. Many men from Norfolk came to work in the yard as well, and several hundred ran coke ovens.
Brevard Street Library for Negroes
Westbrooks worked to connect Black people with books, putting library books in community organizations, schools, and churches. The Brevard Street branch delivered books to the community, and in 1948 the library began offering mobile book service. This service provided library books to people who lived outside the Brevard Street area. The library’s founder also traveled to schools and other places, including local businesses.
The first African American-run public library in North Carolina opened in 1905. It was run entirely by black librarians, and was administered by prominent African American citizens like Thad Tate. In 1929, the Brevard Street branch lost its independence and became a branch of the Charlotte Public Library. Today, it is part of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. The Brevard Street Branch was closed in 1961.
Mint Museum
The Mint Museum is a leading international design and art museum with two locations in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 1936, it strives to engage the community through art and design, both local and worldwide. Currently under the leadership of Todd A. Herman, the Mint is undergoing a major transition to a new building and new leadership. Learn more about the new facilities at The Mint Museum and how to become a member.
The Charlotte North Carolina Mint Museum is an incredible art museum with impressive collections of contemporary and European art. Visitors will be captivated by its massive 145,000 square feet and large Chihuly sculpture in its foyer. You’ll be blown away by the museum’s extensive collection of American and international art and design, including a spectacular display of 18th century British ceramics. You’ll also find an exciting array of temporary exhibits, including rotating international exhibitions.