The Gateway is published two times per year by the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle to its members as a benefit of their generous support. To update or verify your membership information, call 252-335-1453.
FRONT COVER: PORTRAIT OF GASTON POOL, circa 1852
Courtesy NC Museum of History
The Museum’s Mission: Collect, Conserve, and Interpret Regional Life
The large white building with an enormous green roof overlooking the Pasquotank River appears to be a beacon for mariners navigating the channel of the river to arrive at the river’s wharves. The building was designed to capture the sweep of the roof lines of the famous Nags Head cottages. The building designers—Hayes, Seay, Mathern, and Mathern—are world renown architects in museum design. The museum is a place of welcome, knowledge, entertainment, and orientation for the many who visit every year.
In the 57 years (1967–2024) since the museum was established, we have inherited historic objects from citizen groups that formed county historical societies. These groups were instrumental in the formation of the museum, along with the Colonial Dames, Daughters of the American Revolution, and numerous other civic and historical organizations. Did you know the idea of creating a local museum was originally conceived
by the Elizabeth City Chamber of Commerce? The chamber and concerned citizens sought a place to entertain visitors, educate children, retain material culture and promote pride in the Albemarle Region. The idea was presented in the 1920s and progressed through several locations, attempts, and iterations before being realized.
In 1967 the Museum of the Albemarle was incorporated and chartered. The founders decided to interpret the histories of 10 counties to capture the earliest settlement of North Carolina, the Albemarle Precinct (1663). They recruited residents from each of the 10 counties and signed a charter, now displayed in the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle board room. These visionaries realized the importance of local museums during the rapidly changing times of 1960s America. Regionalism was a fresh, new idea, and the partnership gave the residents of northeast North Carolina a repository for shared heritage and culture, as well as a platform to promote history.
The museum contains various artifacts from a span of about 10,000 years. We are endowed with treasures from many families who have donated their heirlooms, keepsakes, and items from everyday life. The museum is a laboratory of history examining the cultures of people who lived in the Albemarle region. The lab works to collect, preserve, and interpret history for study of the humanities. It supports auxiliary learning for area schools, colleges, universities and life-long learners.
We do not differentiate between new and original inhabitants. The main historical factors considered are the impacts of the different populations and how they existed and changed society. The museum staff investigates social trends, technology, lifestyles, and environmental conditions to classify materials for addition into the museum’s collection. Some items are from archeological surveys, pertaining to the indigenous tribes, the area’s earliest people.
Thanks to the thousands of people who donated time, energy, and resources to the museum. These contributors have made the museum a place to experience, explore, and engage for all ages.
We’d love to entertain you with stories of the Albemarle region, North Carolina, and the world. Please make plans to visit and see what’s new. Everyone is invited!
Thank you for your continued support!
Don Pendergraft, Director of Regional Museums
In the Exhibits
On Display
Our Story: Life in the Albemarle
The Albemarle region represents a unique place—half land, half water. The story of this place comes alive in Our Story, a tale of how our communities have adapted to the challenges and opportunities of our unusual home.
Our Story: Audio Tour
Virtual tour provides in-depth overview of the region and its progression through various eras of transportation. Now available in English and Spanish.
North Carolina Shad Boat
The official State Historical Boat of North Carolina was first built in the early 1880s by George Washington Creef of Roanoke Island. The shad boat on display here at MOA was constructed in 1904 by renowned boat builder and decoy carver Alvirah Wright.
Working Birds: Decoys and Their Carvers
Lobby exhibit showcasing decoys from the museum’s collection.
Rock of the Eye: Boatbuilding Traditions
Around the Albemarle Sound Exhibition highlighting boatbuilding traditions and the crafters who helped shape the Albemarle region.
Crafted from Wood
This exhibition explores the gift of crafting treasures from wood while highlighting the training and abilities of the crafter.
Necessity or Frivolous Accessory?
Hats from the Collection
Small case display highlighting hats from the museum’s collection.
Flying Kites with Delia Closes November 14, 2024
Children’s exhibit telling the history of kites and their usage in northeastern North Carolina as told by the narrator, a delta kite named Delia.
Choosing to Participate
Poster display from the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and the educational organization Facing History and Ourselves.
Are We There Yet? North Carolina’s Variety Vacationland, 1930s-1970s
Paneled photography exhibit, on loan from the NC Museum of History, “looks back at an era when tourism boomed thanks largely to a state-run marketing effort called ‘Variety Vacationland.’”
Where the Waves Break: Surfing in Northeastern North Carolina
Explore, experience, and engage in the culture of surfing along our state’s northeast coast.
Amber D. Revels-Stocks, Copy Editor Andrew Nelson-Redondo, Exhibit/Graphic Designer
Contributors
Carrie Barker, Noah Edwards, Johny Hallow, Wanda Lassiter, Lori Meads, Andrew Nelson-Redondo, Don Pendergraft, Barbara Putnam, Alexa Scattaregia, Rebecca Stiles, Paul Vincent
For information on making a contribution to the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle or to sponsor an issue of The Gateway, call 252-335-1453.
Coming Home, An Incredible Journey in Time
By Don Pendergraft, Director of Regional Museums
This year, the museum celebrates 57 years (1967–2024) of collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history of the Albemarle region. The people of the region share unique stories in a place half land and half water. The museum makes efforts to tell these thousands of stories. But few stories can rival the random coincidence that occurred with a portrait recently received by our curatorial and collections staff.
The museum was contacted by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission with bad and good news. First the bad news: They were in the process of deaccessioning a portrait, which usually is not good for an artifact. Deaccessioning is the process of removing an item from a museum’s collection. It’s not undertaken lightly. When we accession an object, it is for perpetuity.
The museum wanted to deaccession two items because of their conditions. The painting had several tears. To stabilize it, it was wax lined, mounted on aluminum, and painted over. The museum was concerned the painting could never be displayed to the public due to those tears. The artifact also didn’t have a direct connection with the region or its mission.
Now, the good news: The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission reached out to the Museum of the Albemarle to see if it wanted a portrait of Gaston Pool and the coral accessory shown in the painting.
PORTRAIT OF GASTON POOL, circa 1852
Courtesy NC Museum of History
Gaston Pool (1851–1852) was a young boy born to John and Narcissa Sawyer Pool in the Albemarle region. The child was painted in a white dress, wearing stockings, black boots, and a necklace of orange coral and holding a small whip in his hand. The artist is purported to be Leopold Paul Unger, an itinerant artist who made numerous portraits in the Albemarle region during the mid-19th century. He resided in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and traveled extensively throughout the eastern United States, including North Carolina, New York, Virginia, and Louisiana.
Gaston’s father John Pool was born at Elmwood, the ancestral home of the Swann-Shepherd-Pool families. Their home, Elmwood, was made of imported English bricks. It stood in a field near the Pasquotank River. The now destroyed home is the reason for the naming of Brickhouse Point.
John Pool graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1847 and practiced law near Elizabeth City. He married Narcissa Sawyer in 1850. He was a member of the North Carolina State Senate in 1856, 1858, and 1865 and served in in the United States Senate from 1868 through 1873. He later practiced law in Washington, DC from 1873 through 1884.
The portrait’s previous owner relocated from North Carolina. She sold it to an antique dealer in Pennsylvania in 1963.
The Museum of the Albemarle has preserved the portrait for future displays, using funds from the Adopt an Artifact program. The Pool family was very influential in North Carolina’s early history; sharing their history meets our mission statement. The portrait was painted in the Victorian Era and is an excellent example of “mourning art” due to Gaston’s untimely death and the significance of the coral necklace. His grave is behind the museum in the Episcopal Cemetery, beside the grave of his mother, Narcissa Sawyer Pool, who died in 1856 at 26. John Pool remarried and is buried in Washington, DC.
Please join us Monday, September 9, for the unveiling of the restored portrait and frame as we celebrate the homecoming of a child—lost and now found. Thanks to the many who contributed to the painting’s restoration.
PORTRAIT OF JOHN POOL
Courtesy NC Museum of History
A NEW AND CORRECT MAP OF THE PROVINCE OF NORTH CAROLINA, 1733
The map was drawn by Edward Moseley, who was surveyor general of the colony of North Carolina.
Courtesy East Carolina University Digital Collections
Adopt an Artifact Program: Successes in Artifact Care
By Carrie Barker, Collections Specialist
Many artifacts in our collection would not be seen on display if not for the generous support of our Adopt an Artifact program, which raises money through our Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle for the specialty conservation work some artifacts require.
Our Collections and Design staff work hard to bring stories to life through our artifacts, and exhibits are developed in part according to what artifacts we have (or can borrow) to illustrate a story. Most artifacts in our collection are not donated in pristine condition, and some show damage inevitable to aging materials, such as acidic paper or shattered silk. There are a few notable items that we are currently unable to display due to poor condition. A few of these are added to our Adopt an Artifact program each year.
Our most recent resounding success is the conservation of the Pool portrait, and the painting will be displayed in Our Story, September 9, 2024. We have other success stories to thank our community for.
AND MARY ANN COX PORTRAIT, circa 1863, after conservation
Portrait of Taddeus and Mary Ann Cox: In 1863, Union 1st Lieutenant Thaddeus Cox and his pregnant wife, Mary Ann, were ambushed on their way to Elizabeth City. They were shot and killed by rebel guerrillas despite an armed Union guard. In MOA’s artifact
collection is a circa 1863 charcoal and crayon photo portrait enlargement of Thaddeus and Mary Ann Cox. In 2013, the museum hired a paper and artwork conservator with Adopt an Artifact funds, largely provided by a family descendant, to stabilize acidity and mechanical damage. While still fragile by nature, the portrait can now be exhibited safely.
1872, after conservation
Masonic apron: This apron, linen with silver decorations and metallic thread, dates to 1872. It was stained and creased with oxidation damaging the metallic decorations. With the help of our generous community and local Masons, money was raised to hire a textile conservator to clean and stabilize weakened sections of the apron.
THADDEUS
Courtesy Museum of the Albemarle
MASONIC APRON,
Courtesy Museum of the Albemarle
WEDDING SUITS OF IDA PATRICK WESTON AND WILLIAM TIMOTHY BERRY, 1884, on display
Wedding suits: MOA has only one set of bride and groom’s wedding suits—those of Hyde County natives
Ida Patrick Weston and William Timothy Berry from their wedding in February 1884. Hired with Adopt an Artifact funds, the textile conservator cleaned and stabilized both the bride’s and the groom’s clothing, patching holes, securing buttons, and reinforcing weak threads.
GORDON LASSITER NIXON’S QUILT, 1886, on display
Gates County quilt: This silk log cabin quilt had shattering and partial shredding with pieces missing. The quilt was handmade by Ida Gordon Lassiter Nixon to commemorate her 1886 wedding to William Nixon Jr. Our resourceful community, specifically the couple’s granddaughter, adopted the quilt in 2009. A textile conservator worked onsite at MOA to dismantle the old frame encasing the quilt, remove staples, and clean and stabilize the delicate silk pieces. A mesh overlay was handsewn to the quilt, and then the entire quilt was handsewn to a padded fabric mount and reframed.
These artifacts, and others like them, would not be exhibitable if not for the generous donations from our community. Thank you to all who contribute to the Adopt an Artifact program through the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle, and thank you to all who walk through our doors to visit and appreciate the artifacts we work so hard to care for.
To learn more about our Adopt an Artifact program and our current artifacts available for adoption, please visit www.museumofthealbemarle.com/collections/ adopt-artifact.
Courtesy Museum of the Albemarle
IDA
Courtesy Museum of the Albemarle
Flames on the Chowan A Revolutionary Skirmish in Colonial Edenton
By Noah Edwards, Collections Assistant
Celebrations of the United States’ 250th birthday have already started to gear up with an event recognizing the Halifax Resolves occurring recently in Halifax County. While no major battles happened in this corner of North Carolina (in fact, very few happened in the state at all), there were still plenty of smaller interesting occurrences during America’s struggle for independence, many of which shed light on the region’s maritime heritage.
In 1781, as the War for Independence was approaching its conclusion, Edenton remained a relatively important port town for North Carolina. The city avoided most of the conflict until the end of May.
On May 27, 1781, galleys (a type of ship usually propelled by oars) belonging to Loyalists, attacked warehouses in Edenton’s port and seized three merchant ships. The merchant ships were owned by George Kelley, William Littlejohn, and Robert Smith, all prominent community members. Citizens
were quick to respond to the attack.
That same night, a group took a canoe out on the water to reclaim the ships from the Loyalists. They quickly recaptured the ship that belonged to Smith, but the rescue of Littlejohn’s ship did not go so smoothly. The attempt to secure the second ship ended with it in flames as the rescuers retreated, abandoning the vessel to sink into Edenton’s harbor .
In the chaos of the situation, many of the Loyalists, who started the chain of events by attacking the port, escaped from the harbor in their galleys. Not wanting to let them get away that easily, the townspeople quickly outfitted and launched a small fleet of boats on May 29, to chase after the loyalist galleys. On June 6, 1781, the General Arnold, one of the galleys, surrendered to the forces from Edenton after a small battle. The galley was captained by a man named Michael Quinn, who had briefly served in the Continental Army before switching sides.
Fear of a British reprisal following the events drove away business, and few merchants made their way in and out of the port. At the end of the war, the port was mostly deserted save for a few merchant vessels that had been abandoned there.
ARTIFACTS RECOVERED FROM THE BURROUGH’S SITE
Particularly interesting is number 8, known as star shot or peak shot, these were improvised cannon projectiles that likely would have been covered in a flammable substance.
Courtesy North Carolina Office of State Archaeology, Underwater Archaeology Branch and East Carolina University, Program in Maritime Studies (Department of History)
In 2001, the East Carolina University Maritime Studies Program excavated the Burroughs site in Edenton’s harbor. By examining the shipwreck, archaeologists determined that it was likely the remnants of an oceangoing merchant vessel, possibly one of the ships abandoned in the harbor following the skirmishes of late May and early June 1781. Further study of the wreck also provided insight into the differences between American and British ship
construction and a better understanding of how colonial ship construction evolved from British tradition.
To learn more about North Carolina’s role in the American Revolution, as well as ships and shipbuilding in the 1700s, please visit the Museum of the Albemarle, open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A MAP OF THE TOWN AND PORT OF EDENTON, drawn in 1769 by C. J. Sauthier.
Courtesy Norman B. Leventhal Map & Education Center at the Boston Public Library
America 250th and Iredell’s Resolve of American Autonomy
By Paul Vincent, Contributing Researcher
In the coming months, visitors to the museum will likely notice the inset logo posted in our galleries and on some of our exhibits and artifacts. America 250 NC is a statewide initiative established to help commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Coordinated by the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, America 250 NC additionally will observe, explore, and promote North Carolina’s role and place in the founding of the United States during the country’s semiquincentennial celebrations.
In partnering with America 250 NC, the Museum of the Albemarle will offer ongoing educational programs, exhibits, and artifact displays, emphasizing
SHOE BUCKLES, with Rhinestones, circa 1789
Worn by James Iredell (1751-1799), a Justice of the first United States Supreme Court, to the first reception of President and Mrs. George Washington. Iredell, a resident of Edenton, was a successful political essayist, lawyer, and leader in the struggle for American Independence.
both historical events of note, as well as experiences of daily life in the Albemarle during the Revolution.
One unique artifact that will be on display is the shoe buckles belonging to James Iredell Sr. (1751–1799).
One of the first justices appointed to the US Supreme Court, Iredell sailed to America in the service of King George III. However, after establishing himself in Edenton, Iredell studied law and later penned many articles in favor of independence from British rule. A lawyer, essayist, and patriot, his resolve for American autonomy helped spur the cause for a sovereign United States.
Scan me! WHEN ARE WE US?
If you are looking for things to do or would like to stay updated on all the events across the state, we invite you to visit america250.nc.gov and click on events.
Courtesy NC Museum of History
Education
Fall and Winter Programming
By Lori Meads, Education Curator
Fall and winter programming begins September 4, with History for Lunch with Lee Holder of the Gizella Gross Abramson Resource Center for Holocaust and Civil Rights Education and the North Carolina Council on the Holocaust. Other guests for the fall include Alex Christopher Meekins of the State Archives of North Carolina presenting research on the North Carolina Roster Project on September 18. On October 16 in collaboration with SPLASH Week 2024, Edward Fearing will provide valuable points on how to care for and maintain furniture. On November 3, Sharon Meade will lecture on the Knapp legacy in Currituck County. On November 20, a representative of the North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission will give an informative talk for American Indian Heritage Month.
Small children will enjoy Tot Time presented each second Thursday. The first will be Are We There Yet? on September 12. During this program, children will learn about favorite vacation spots throughout North Carolina during the 1930s through the 1970s. Other fall topics include Surf’s Up! and Christmas in the Colonies. Don’t miss the Take It, Make It weekends on September 21 for Hispanic Heritage Month and October 26, Halloween Fun and Treats.
We are excited for the unveiling of the portrait of Gaston Pool (1851–1852,) a young boy born to John and Narcissa Sawyer Pool, and the coral accessory he is wearing in the painting by Leopold Paul Unger, an itinerant artist who made numerous portraits in the Albemarle region during the mid-19th century. Sandra Kelberlau, paintings conservator of SK Paintings Conservation based out of Raleigh, will be the guest speaker for the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle’s Annual Meeting on Monday, September 9. Kelberlau will take us through the steps of restoring the portrait to its original state using natural materials
that will extend the life of the wonderful artifact that has come back home to its origin.
In October, the museum will be collaborating with Arts of the Albemarle and Port Discover during SPLASH Week 2024, October 14–19. On Friday, October 19, Elizabeth City H.A.S. It will host a School Day at Mariners’ Wharf featuring as many genres of art as possible for students.
Mark your calendars for the Annual Designer’s Workshop on Saturday, November 16, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Make your own or a special gift of a basket with Albemarle Craftsman Fair Artist Judith Sanders. Participants will create a basket using several techniques and materials, along with your option of two colors. No two baskets will be the same. The workshop will include a light lunch. Class has limited seating and a supply fee.
Experience the sights and sounds of the holiday season as we travel back 250 years during the Holiday Open House: A Colonial Christmas on December 7. The museum will be decorated with a colonial theme. The Albemarle Express O-scale model train will be on display as it travels through eastern North Carolina. Visit with Santa and search the Museum Gift Shop for that special gift. School groups with reservations may visit A Colonial Christmas for a day stepping back in time to experience the life of a child during the period beginning November 25. Register your family for the tasty and fun Gingerbread Workshop on December 7. Kids of all ages are welcome.
As we look forward to the changes the new year will bring, the education staff wishes you and yours a very Happy New Year. Make sure you include the museum as one of your favorite places to visit and support in 2025.
Spanish Offerings
Providing New Ways to “Experience, Explore, and Engage” in the Museum
By Andrew M. Nelson-Redondo, Exhibition/Graphic Designer
The Museum of the Albemarle continues its mission of providing inclusion and diversity by giving visitors new opportunities to “experience, explore, and engage.” A few years ago, the museum began to bring offerings for visitors to enjoy its exhibits in not just one language but two by incorporating Spanish into its exhibitions and programming.
MOA Mobile—the hybrid museum app for self-guided tours, highlights on exhibits and artifacts, games, and more—initially made this possible. MOA now has Spanish self-guidebooks for visitors to use in every one of its major galleries with each new exhibit. Additionally, it has started a process to make every traveling exhibit bilingual, so that MOA may reach out to as many new demographics and communities as possible.
The museum encourages our Hispanic, and other communities to come and experience your museum and your history through Spanish to “experience, explore, and engage” its various offerings.
Try MOA Mobile in Spanish on your next visit by scanning the QR Code in the various graphics provided within the museum upon entry or by visiting moa.stqry.app. Upon starting the experience, choose which language to begin exploring all we have to offer and enjoy.
Or try out any of the new Spanish exhibit self-guidebooks. Please also take an opportunity to see the main exhibition, “Our Story: Life in the Albemarle,” with the Spanish track of the popular audio self-guided tour.
El Museo de Albemarle continúa su misión de brindar inclusión y diversidad brindando a los visitantes nuevas oportunidades para “experimentar, explorar, y participar”. Hace unos años, el museo comenzó a ofrecer ofertas para que los visitantes disfrutan de sus exhibiciones no solo en un idioma sino en dos al incorporar el español a sus exhibiciones y programación.
MOA Mobile, la aplicación hibrida del museo para visitas autoguiadas aspectos destacados de exhibiciones y datos artísticos, juegos, y más inicialmente hizo esto posible. MOA ahora tiene autoguías en español para que los visitantes las utilicen en cada una de sus galerías principales con cada nueva exhibición. Además, ha iniciado un proceso para hacer que cada exhibición itinerante sea bilingüe, de modo que MOA pueda llegar a tantas comunidades y grupos demográficos nuevos como sea posible.
El museo desea alentar en nuestras comunidades hispana, y otras comunidades a realizar o programar un recorrido hoy y experimentar su museo y su historia a través del español para “experimentar, explorar, y participar” en sus diversas ofertas.
Pruebe MOA Mobile en español en su próxima visita escaneando el código QR en los diversos gráficos que se encuentran dentro del museo al ingresar o visitando moa.stqry.app. Al iniciar la experiencia, elige en qué idioma comenzar a explorar todo lo que tenemos, para ofrecer y disfrutar.
O pruebe cualquiera de las nuevas guías autoguiadas de las exhibiciones en español. Aproveche también la oportunidad de ver la exposición principal, “Nuestra Historia: La Vida en Albemarle”, con la versión en español de la popular visita autoguiada en audio.
The North Carolina Museum of History Announces Upcoming Redesign of Museum and Exhibits
By Alexa Scattaregia, Information and Communication Specialist for NC Museum of History
The North Carolina Museum of History announces the start of an exciting transformation! This historic gem, proudly affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, is gearing up to unveil a dramatic new experience in a few years that will redefine how visitors connect with the vibrant tapestry of North Carolina’s past.
To prepare for the renovation, the first floor exhibits and the physical museum building will close on October 7, 2024. The Museum Shop will remain open to the public until December 29, 2024. Expected to span two to three years, this museum makeover promises an extraordinary journey deep into the heart of North Carolina’s past. The project is made possible through funding authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly and Governor Roy Cooper.
As the museum undergoes this metamorphosis, its dedication to education and the public stands firm. Students and educators statewide will continue
to enjoy a bounty of digital resources, ensuring that the quest for knowledge never pauses. For the public, anticipate an array of virtual programs, traveling exhibits, and live events spanning the length and breadth of North Carolina. Enhanced online services are in the works, set to deliver immersive digital exhibit tours straight to your fingertips.
Brad Wilson, Interim Director of the NC Museum of History and Division of State History Museums, shares the excitement, declaring, “We’re embarking on an incredible journey, and what awaits us on the other side is nothing short of extraordinary—reimagined exhibits that will bring North Carolina history to life.”
Don’t miss current opportunities to engage with the museum’s open exhibitions; there are still a lot of exhibits, live music, and programs to explore. Later as the construction unfolds, don’t miss the chance to explore the treasure trove of online museum programs and in-person statewide opportunities.
FRONT STEPS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF HISTORY
Courtesy NC Museum of History
What’s Happening with Affiliate Museums
Halloween Revels Night Tours of the 1897 Poe House
October 17-19 & 24-25, 2024
For a full listing of upcoming programs and events, visit ncmuseumofhistory.org/events
For more information about events and exhibits at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, visit museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov
6:00-10:00 pm
Guests are transported back in time, witnessing a series of vignettes based on Victorian cultural norms, music, and poetry through a scripted short play with a Hallowe’en theme. This is a unique opportunity for the public to experience historical theater in an actual historic home. Tickets are required.
Trick or Treat at the Poe House
Saturday, October 26, 2024 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Children attending this event explore Victorian culture in the Poe House, play vintage carnival games, enjoy a Halloween dance party with a local DJ, and witness balloon twisting and magic tricks with Joy the Clown. Hayrides in Arsenal Park will round out the fun.
Holiday Jubilee at the 1897 Poe House
Sunday, December 8, 2024
1:00-5:00 pm
This favorite seasonal event features the Coventry Carolers and the Fayetteville Sound performing for visitors on the Poe House front porch. Other highlights of this event include historic cooking, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and of course the beautifully decorated Poe House.
HALLOWEEN REVELS NIGHT TOURS OF THE 1897 POE HOUSE Courtesy Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex
HOLIDAY JUBILEE AT THE 1897 POE HOUSE Courtesy Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex
Affiliate Museums
For more information about events and exhibits at the Mountain Gateway Museum, visit mgmnc.org
A Place at the Polls
Exhibit continues through February 2025; open during regular museum hours. Admission is free.
The U.S. Declaration of Independence may have endowed Americans with certain unalienable rights, but voting wasn’t necessarily one of them. Learn how voting rights have evolved in the United States, particularly in North Carolina, in this first of three in-house exhibits planned as part of DNCR’s America 250 NC initiative to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Douglas Dobell Ellington: Asheville’s Boomtown Architect
Exhibit continues through March 2025; open during regular museum hours. Admission is free.
Douglas Ellington is known as the architect who changed Asheville into an Art Deco showplace during the 1920s. This traveling exhibit from the Asheville Museum of History examines how Ellington combined architectural elements to create such iconic buildings as the Asheville High School, City Building, First Baptist Church, and S&W Cafeteria.
Farms & Foliage
Saturday, October 5, 11 a.m. — 3 p.m. Admission is Free.
In western North Carolina’s mountains, fall’s brilliant leaf colors and farm harvest celebrations are signs that winter is coming. Learn via a variety of free activities, demonstrations, and displays how plants, animals, and humans prepare for long months of cold weather and what they do to survive until spring.
Tailgate Market at MGM:
Saturday, October 12, 10 a.m. — 2 p.m.
For one day only, the Marion Tailgate Market will bring its bounty to MGM’s grounds. Choose from an array of farmfresh fruits, flowers, and vegetables to put on your family’s tables, or shop for locally handmade craft s and baked goods.
“An Afternoon with Mark Twain”
Sundays, October 20 and 27, starting at 2:00 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Enjoy an autumn afternoon in MGM’s creek-side amphitheater with one of America’s favorite authors. The Actors Lab at Studio Two in Old Fort will present two separate Sunday performances of a one-man play based on the wit and writings of Mark Twain.
A Halloween Hoot
Thursday, October 31, beginning at 6 p.m.
Scare up a spooky costume and slink around downtown Old Fort, including the Mountain Gateway Museum, in search of some sweet treats and shocking activities during this spectacular community event sponsored by the Old Fort Business Association.
Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop
Saturday, November. 25, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Fee is $15 per participant. Pre-registration is required.
Kick off the holiday season with two sessions of MGM’s annual wreath-making workshop, featuring live greenery, lots of ornaments, Christmas music, and a craft instructor.
(Un) Lawful Dissidence: The Regulator Movement in North Carolina, 1765 to 1771
Exhibit opening in March 2025. Admission is free.
The Regulator Movement in mid-18thcentury North Carolina was an uprising by some inland, backcountry residents against royal government off icials they viewed as corrupt. MGM’s second exhibit in DNCR’s America 250 NC initiative examines an event perceived by some as a prelude to the American Revolution.
President’s Report
By
Johny Hallow, FOMOA Board President
The Museum of the Albemarle is off to a great start in 2024. I continue to be thankful for the opportunity to serve this wonderful organization and community, and to work with a great staff and Board of Directors.
In January, we hosted a wonderful celebration of Jazz Master and Pasquotank County Native, Max Roach, the master percussionist whose rhythmic innovations helped define bebop jazz. For
this celebration, we were joined by Elizabeth City State University’s Professor of Music, Douglas Jackson, who gave remarks on the life and accomplishments of Max Roach. We also enjoyed live jazz music from several impressive musicians, including Pasquotank County native, Thomas Taylor. Also in January, we opened a new exhibit — Necessity or Frivolous Accessory? Hats from the Collection— which highlights a multitude of hats often associated with differing religions and cultures. This new exhibit is in a small case located next to the Museum Gift Shop – be sure to check it out!
In May, we hosted a celebration of the legacy of the Rose Buddies, a group of Elizabeth City locals which got its name from the flowers that members used to give to incoming boaters in the 1980s, and ultimately led to Elizabeth City’s nickname – “The Harbor
of Hospitality.” We were joined by several special guests, including the North Carolina Museum of History’s Interim Director, Brad Wilson, and Elizabeth Hudson and Rebecca Woltz from Our State Magazine, who recently issued a wonderful piece entitled, “The Rose Buddies’ Legacy.”
We have a number of other exciting events on our calendar for the remainder of 2024. Please be sure to check out our social media pages to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and news.
Finally, I would like to again recognize and thank the Museum’s staff and Board of Directors for their continuing hard work and dedication that has led to the Museum’s continued success – I look forward to working together throughout the remainder of 2024.
Membership Matters
Thank you for supporting the museum!
RENEWALS
Individual
• David Clegg
• Donald Cherry
• Peggy Davenport
• Dianne Fletcher
• Wendy Flores
• Johny Hallow
• Evelyn Henley
• Mae Heyer
• MSG William Hoffman
• Frank Johnson
• Tess Judge
• Bettie Lowe
• Daniel McAuliffe
• David Seymour
• Tony Stimatz
• Dianne Wells
• Peggy West
• Emily Jennings-White
Family
• Donna Baker
• Bill & Chris Barber
• Kim & Jack Baumbaugh
• Bernetta, Anthony & Elisa Brown
• Sharon Burtner
• Linda Davis
• Linda & Shel Davis
• Brenda & Billy Felton
• Holly Glenn
• Norma Hatot-King
• Penny Leary-Smith
• Daryl Lease & Julie Finn
• Joyce & Justina Long
• Pat & Dianne McDowell
• Freda & Wallace Nelson
• Nancy & John Nicholls
• Cyn Owens
• John Collins & Patsy Lowell
• Tom & Dee Ponte
Patron
• Gretchen Blacksmith
• Mychele Conway
• Dolores Elder
• Linda Hofler
• Alden & Patty Hoggard
• David & Jane Harris
• Don & Mary Lee Kosik
• Anne Marie Knighton
• Tom & Margaret Newbern
• Julie & Harry Robinson
• Lynn & Russell Scull
• Elda & Bill Stevens
• Di Small & Neal Blinken
• Ethel Sutton
• Paul & Joyce Wheeler
Sponsor
• Al & Min DelGarbino
• Kurt & Bobbi Hunsberger
• Robert & Elana Muir
Lifetime Members
• Gerry Anderson
• Hilton & Mary Leigh Barrett
• Arthur & Patti Bergman
• Anna & Bruce Biggs
• Dr. Karl Brandspigel & Nita Coleman
• Geoff & Penny Byrd
• Carol Cowell
• Brenda & Terry Daniels
• Sam & Faye Davis
• Col. Bill & Susan Davis
• Oliver & Linda Etheridge
• Joe & Judy Evans
• Jo Ann Foreman
• Creig & Karen Foreman
• Dr. Linda Fusco
• Doug & Diana Gardner
• Sharon Greene
• Dorsey Harris
• Dr. Diana D. Hardison
• Flint & Janet Harding, Jr.
• James & Jackie Hathaway
• Phyllis Bosomworth & Jim Watson
Membership
• Dr. Karen Ray & Dr. John Hill
• Ken & Martha Howard
• Chad Hull
• Russ & Courtney Hull
• Maughan & Kay Hull
• Nedra & Jules Lane
• Margaret Jones
• Mark & Lil Maland
• Hunter Foreman Michael
• Nancy Bailey Muller
• Buddy & Beverly Madrin
• Cynthia Mastro
• Brenda Mahaffey
• Michael & Sherri McDaniel
• Ed & Claudia Merrell, Jr.
• Kirk & Anita Oldham
• Charlotte Patterson
• William Parker, Jr.
• Chris & Whitney Paullet
• Dr. Anne Marie Radke
• Tapp & Charlie Robinson
• Harry & Julie Robinson
• (In Memory Of) Alice Barrow Rayburn & Sadie Fearing Barrow
• Matt & Breanne Scribner
• George & Anne Scott
• Susan Scurria
• Beverly Small
• Mark & Stacy Small
• Dr. Benjamin Speller, Jr.
• Marvin Stokley
• George & Mary Thomas
• Jim & Jo Thomas
• Bob & Judy Thorne
• Mary Tirak
• Byrum Charitable Trust
• Barbara & Leo Wachter
• Katherine Wassink
• Jimmy & Mary Jo Westbrook
• Dian Williams
NEW MEMBERS
Individual
• Desi Combs
• Sandra McPherson
Family
• Andrea Dance
• Kristal Morton
• Ashley Smith
• Ganelle Sutton
• Terrel & Tiffany Tatem
Lifetime Members
• Gerry Anderson
• George & Anne Scott
Community Partners & Sponsor Recognition
The Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle (FOMOA) is a non-profit support group that seeks to raise awareness and provide funding for exhibits, educational programming, and artifact conservation throughout the 13 county region that we serve. The counties served are Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell, and Washington. The Museum of the Albemarle is the recipient of all funds raised.
ELIZABETH CITY FOUNDATION
Museum Gift Shop
the Museum Gift Shop for a selection of gifts to suit every occasion, most are handmade by Albemarle Craftman’s Guild members. Here you’ll nd books about the region, culinary items, and USCG souvenirs. e shop is full of rare and beautiful gifts, wrapping is included with purchases.
With a variety of spaces available for rent and an attractive and convenient downtown Elizabeth City location, the museum is an ideal choice for almost any event; including business meetings, corporate dinners, community events, performances, wedding receptions, holiday parties, and family reunions.
Visit all year long and during Hispanic Heritage Month, as a community and enjoy the museum’s many Spanish offerings providing new ways to “experience, explore, and engage.” We’d love to entertain you with stories of the Albemarle region, North Carolina, and the world as you enjoy our revamped and ongoing variety of bilingual exhibits from our permanent collections to our traveling exhibits. Enjoy our other offerings such as our audio tours on MOA Mobile and self-guidebooks in Spanish during your next visit!
Gingerbread Workshop
Friday, December 6, 4 – 5 p.m.
Join the museum in its tradition of decorating a gingerbread house from Cakery By Diane.
Design your house with a wide variety of candies, cookies, cereals, and more. We do the cleanup, and you go home with a marvelous gingerbread creation to enjoy throughout the season.
Register early since spaces are limited! Supply fee. Class has limited seating and a supply fee.
Exploring,
Experiencing, & Engaging
The American Revolutionary War
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s freedom, and realize that freedom is an ongoing journey, a never-ending battle for justice!
Explore, experience, and engage with various artifacts from 1750—1800! Learn how life was like for people living in northeastern North Carolina before, during, and just after the American Revolutionary War.
When visiting look for this iconic logo within the galleries!
Dive into how the theme of “When Are We Us,” chosen by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, helps celebrate this great country’s rise to freedom.
Colonial Christmas
Saturday, December 7 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Join the museum for a Colonial Christmas for some yuletide holiday traditions. Take a moment to enjoy the Albemarle Express, an O-scale model train, and view Christmas trees decorated to represent the 13 counties that make up the museum’s interpretative region.
Experience • Explore • Engage
Experience • Explore • Engage
Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle 501 South Water Street | Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27909 (252) 335-1453 | MuseumOfTheAlbemarle.com
and
This 19th-century image of Luke, Simeon, and Bill Barco standing in front of their father William’s blacksmith tent is a new addition to the main gallery, .
LUKE, SIMEON,
BILL BARCO
Courtesy Marianne Jackson, Emma Jane Barco Pugh, and Rose Ilene Harman Pugh
