CHEROKEE COUNTY HISTORY CENTER OPENS DOOR TO PAST

Cherokee County’s unique and compelling history can now be explored in depth at the new Cherokee County History Center in downtown Canton.

In the fall of 2022, the History Center opened a state-of -the-art museum offering an interactive experience that takes visitors from the earliest prehistoric time in Cherokee County through the last 50 years of major growth and development.

The $4.3 million project converted the former Canton police station into the state-of-the-art History Center was a more than five-year project by the Cherokee County Historical Society, now known as History Cherokee.

The 11,000-square-foot History Center also houses History Cherokee’s archival collection, offers educational facilities and meeting space, a research library, and an unexpected boutique gift shop.

History Cherokee is committed to the collections, preservation, and interpretation of Cherokee County history, according to its mission. Through strong community partnerships, relevant educational programming, intentional collecting practices, and historic preservation advocacy the non-profit states it strives to inspire its audience to become empathetic and engaged participants in their communities.

”History Cherokee designed the History Center to be a resource for the community. It will is a place for all generations to explore Cherokee County’s history, find preservation resources, and participate in diverse programming,” explains History Cherokee Executive Director Stefanie Joyner. “The History Center is a cultural asset, improving the quality of life for Cherokee County residents and visitors.”

Visitors to the History Center will enter the museum through the Main Hall that leads into six galleries where the story of Cherokee County unfolds chronologically. Compelling and educational exhibits in each gallery help visitors delve into the rich history of the region.

The new Cherokee County History Center each representing an important element of the county’s history and a taste of what visitors to the museum can enjoy.

History Cherokee Exhibits and Collections Manager Kaylee Johnson says it is hard to say which are the most exceptional because they are all fantastic. “But our exhibit on prehistoric indigenous pottery, all found right here in Cherokee County, is quite remarkable because of how many fully intact vessels we have to display. For unbroken pottery to be found during archaeological excavations is rare, so for us to be able to share multiple pieces of pottery with our visitors is amazing.”

The History Center also has two mini-theaters— one showing a new documentary about the Civil Rights era in Cherokee County highlighting interviews with local people involved in the movement and the other airing historic videos and photographs from the 1950s featuring local events, news, and lifestyle.

The museum features both hands-on and technological interactives throughout the exhibits. These elements are chances for visitors to touch history and immerse themselves more deeply into Cherokee County’s past. Each gallery has multiple stations to see, feel, hear, and connect with History Cherokee and the county’s shared past.

Education Manager Harvee White is on staff to make sure the History Center is a true research hub. “Our library houses a lot of resources that can only be found here—I think that’s what makes us such a special place for the community,” she explains. “The library is perfect for both students working on their theses, and history buffs delving deep into the history of the county. It’s our goal to be a trusted resource, to be the first place people think of when they have a question about Cherokee County to find the answers or point them in the right direction.

Programming includes educational and fun ways to learn about Cherokee County’s history for all ages, from young children through adults. “Ultimately I want to have something for learners of all ages, whether it be workshops on how to preserve your photographs, or colonial cooking demonstrations, we’re going to make sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy,” White promises.

Working with the Cherokee County School District is also on the agenda. “Community partnerships are my biggest focus as we grow as an organization. I’ve already begun collaborating with the school district to plan how we can best serve them as a field trip staple, and even have plans to have some student docents,” White says.

“I’ve also connected with the Girl Scouts to make the museum a perfect place to earn badges. We’re always looking for opportunities to expand our partnerships. Any organization or class with an interest or an idea on how to use our space to serve them should reach out to me.”

For individuals, the History Center encourages those interested to make a donation, become a member, or both. There are several opportunities throughout the year to support History Cherokee in addition to being a donor, including the easiest way to stay in-the-know— subscribe to History Cherokee communications, by visiting the website today. •

For more information regarding hours of operation, admission charges, and ways to become active with the new Cherokee County History Center visit HistoryCherokee.org. The History Center is located at 221 E. Marietta Street, Canton, 30114.