Administrator’s Letter
Hello again from the Historic Resources and Museums (HRM) Program! We hope you enjoy reading this latest issue of the Raleigh Register. As we move into summer and begin to enjoy days visiting the beach listening to the sounds of the ocean or making plans to head out of Raleigh to explore parts unknown, we thought what better time to focus on travel. Whether it was the Mordecai or Pope family, they all travelled bringing back stories of adventure as well as mementos from their journey. Across all of our sites in the HRM Program we preserve these stories and artifacts, reflecting Raleigh’s rich cultural heritage and diverse historical narratives. HRM sites and museums not only preserve artifacts and architecture but also serve as vibrant venues for telling these stories. Please enjoy learning more about these experiences in this issue and for more detailed information please visit our website.
As always, feel free to reach out to me anytime for questions, comments, or feedback. I am always interested in ways we can make our programs better.
Troy Burton
HRM Administrator 919-996-4772
troy.burton@raleighnc.gov
Chair’s Letter
From its earliest days, Raleigh drew travelers from near and far. Early newspaper accounts tallied visitors arriving for legislative sessions, court business, and seasonal events. The completion of the Raleigh & Gaston Railroad in 1840 ushered in a new era of travel to and from the capital. Upon the inaugural state fair in 1853, thousands flocked to its first site in East Raleigh to enjoy its marvels, marking the beginning of a lasting cultural institution.
As early 20th century preferences shifted from rail to automobile, tourist homes flourished along Wake Forest Road/Person Street, then part of U.S. Route 1, the primary corridor moving motorists from Maine to Florida. Familyrun lodgings such as The Gables and Pinetops Tourist Home served travelers along the route. Even the present-day Mordecai Visitor Center spent more than two decades as the modestly named “Tour Inn.”
During Jim Crow, sites like the DeLuxe Hotel and Starks Villa Guest House provided essential accommodations for African American travelers. Together, these histories trace the many ways people have moved through Raleigh over 230+ years.
Jenny Harper Chair HRM Advisory Board
Follow Us
Check our social media for the newest additions of upcoming events at all of our sites! RaleighParks
Collection’s Corner: To Hither and Yon
Ainsley Powell, Curator of Collections
Hettie Lenora “Nora” Evans Lockhart at the airport in May 1952. At the time, Lockhart was an educator at Crosby-Garfield Elementary.
Travel expenses incurred by Evelyn Pope, August 25, 1944. This would be about $440 today.
Piedmont Airline souvenir pin, which operated out of Raleigh-Durham International Airport, 1948-1989
Toothbrush case, date unknown
Letterhead from Yarborough Hotel, 1926-1928
Travel bag and pillow for bus trips, ca. 1950s
Greyhound sightseeing brochure for Washington D.C. sent to Raleigh bus station on West Morgan Street, ca. 1968
Green Books Open Up the World
Ernest Dollar, HRM Program Director, Museums
New York postman Victor H. Green believed African Americans in the United States needed a guide to help them safely navigate Jim Crow laws while traveling. Green published the The Negro Motorist Green Book in 1936, which listed traveler services such as hotels, restaurants, service centers, and tailors, all of which served Black clientele. Two years after the Green Books began their popular publication, Raleigh businesses began to appear, revealing the city’s network of African American entrepreneurs. These guides made travel planning easier for Black families and provided the freedom to explore the nation with less worry. Desegregation opened up access to White establishments for Black customers and ended the need for the Green Book, which stopped publication in 1964.
Many of the Black owned businesses listed in the Green Books have disappeared. In 2023, the City of Raleigh Museum hosted the traveling exhibit Navigating Jim Crow: The Green Book and Oasis Spaces in North Carolina, which highlighted the impact of the traveler’s guide. Several of Raleigh’s Green Book businesses will be celebrated in two new HRM Program projects – the new exhibit at the John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center and the Fourth Ward historic walking tour.
The Green Book listed sites including the Arcade Hotel pictured here in 1921 on E. Hargett St. (left, image courtesy of State Archives of North Carolina) and Pete and Mike Grill on Dawson St (right).
Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Addie Magyar, Collections Specialist
The Raleigh-Durham (RDU) International Airport, established in 1943, has served the Triangle area of North Carolina for 83 years. Beginning as a federal World War II base, the airport was first known as RaleighDurham Army Airfield. It opened on May 1, 1943, and was used as a training area for the Army Air Corps until 1948.
Sunday, April 25,
Eastern Airlines began service the same year with flights from RDU to New York and Miami, with stops in many notable cities, including Washington, D.C. By 1979, five carriers served the RDU International Airport, and just a few years later, Terminal A opened in 1982. Soon after, the 10,000-foot runway was built, and by the 50th anniversary, the airport offered international flights to Bermuda, Cancun, and Paris-Orly.
Since then, RDU International Airport has increased airlines and accommodations to benefit the increasing number of travelers, including the Park and Ride system and The Shops of RDU Landing. Over the years, the airport has undergone multiple expansions, renovations, and modernizations.
With 19 airlines, more than 400 daily flights, and almost eight million annual passengers, the Raleigh-Durham International Airport continues to be a significant asset to North Carolina.
Travel: Then, Now, and Next
Abby Kellerman, City of Raleigh Museum Director
The City of Raleigh Museum’s motto “Then, Now, Next” is a great lens to explore travel.
Then: Our Hello, We Are Raleigh” exhibit features one of the oldest travel stories in the museum, Isaac Hunter’s Tavern. The tavern served as a landmark for locals and travelers alike, including government officials who declared the capital of our state must be no further than 10 miles from this establishment.
Now: The City of Raleigh Museum helps anchor downtown as a vibrant destination. Recently, the museum welcomed visitors from Germany! We serve a wide range of visitors, from local, to out-of-town, and even international. Last year, we welcomed visitors from 46 different states! Hopefully we can get all 50 this year.
Next: Our newest exhibit, Patterns of Belonging: English Learners’ Reflections on America 250, showcases the hopes and dreams of English language learners in Raleigh, inspired by the anniversary of America 250. When asked to describe their American Dream, many students wrote about their dreams to travel across the United States. You can visit the exhibit and read through the students’ journals yourself – I guarantee you will be inspired to have some travel dreams of your own!
The
1993 issue of The News & Observer
Upcoming Events
First Friday Extended Hours
Fridays, July 3, August 7, and September 4
5:30 – 8 p.m.
Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
Join us during our extended hours to explore the inspiring history of one of Raleigh’s most prominent African American families. Learn more about the history of the Pope House Museum. We look forward to sharing this meaningful story with you!
Create Moore!
Every Friday in July, August, and September 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Moore Square
The Square becomes a creative space for exploration on Friday mornings with our Create Moore! Series. Park staff will guide guests through various themed and seasonal STEAM experiences using a rich variety of materials.
First Friday Market and Movie
Fridays, July 3, August 7, and September 4 5 – 9 p.m.
Moore Square
Moore Square, in partnership with Get2KnowRaleigh, welcomes back the First Friday Market & Movie Night series for the 2026 season. This free monthly event brings the community together for local vendors, food trucks, live music, and an outdoor movie in the heart of downtown Raleigh.
Moore Storytime
Every Tuesday in July, August, and September 10:30 a.m.
Moore Square
The Moore Square playground transforms into a serene storytelling play space for young children and their caregivers. Our park staff will lead children through a circle activity, read stories, and share sensory and play activities such as bubble exploration, coloring, and dancing.
Movie Series at Pullen Park
Tuesdays, July 7, August 4, and September 1
7 p.m.
Pullen Park Historic Attractions
Join us for movie nights this summer at Pullen Park! Families, friends, and film lovers of all ages are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs for a season of outdoor cinema on the event lawn.
Lunchbox Lecture
Thursdays, July 9, August 13, and September 10 12 – 1 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Bring your lunch and listen to a lecture! Every month will be a new topic. Lectures will run 3040 minutes and will begin shortly after 12pm to give people time to get settled. We can’t wait for you to join us!
Downtown Raleigh Black History Tour
Saturdays, July 11 - September 12
10 a.m.
Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
The Pope House is excited to offer walking tours that showcase Raleigh’s vibrant downtown Black History. Join us to discover inspiring stories and learn about this important part of our community’s heritage. Topics will include Black Main Street, the Civil Rights Movement, and women’s history.
Fletcher Park Concert Series
Sundays, July 12, July 19, July 26, August 2, August 9, and August 23
6 – 8 p.m.
Fletcher Park
Join us for the joint summer concert series at Fletcher and Pullen Park. Local bands will play music from a variety of genres, including rock, blues, classical, and taiko.
Common or Complicated… One Thread
Saturday, July 18
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Join us for a community arts experience celebrating the stories, traditions, and experiences that shape our connections to
America. Participants will explore personal histories, family journeys, and their own experiences in America through creative expression while contributing meaningful textile items. In collaboration with Arts Together.
Yoga in the Galleries
Sunday, July 19
2 – 3 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Yoga in the Galleries is a free program designed to welcome participants of all ages and yoga backgrounds. Bring your own mat, tools, and water. Taught by Elizabeth Comtois, registered yoga teacher and founder of Embodied Yoga LLC.
First Friday with NC Courage
Friday, August 7
6 – 9 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Celebrate soccer season at the City of Raleigh Museum! This first Friday we are partnering with Raleigh’s professional soccer team, NC Courage! Get ready for soccer-themed activities and giveaways!
Family Fun Day
Saturday, August 15
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Join us for a day of family fun in the museum! This is a great way to stay cool and to learn more. Get ready for a scavenger hunt, crafts, and even a prize box!
Pullen Park Concert Series
Sunday, August 16
6 – 8 p.m.
Pullen Park Historic Attractions
Join us for the joint summer concert series at Fletcher and Pullen Park. Local bands will play music from a variety of genres, including rock, blues, classical, and taiko.
Evelyn’s Book Club
Wednesday, August 26
6:30 – 8 p.m.
Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
Named after Evelyn Pope, an avid reader and librarian, this program will bring community members together to discuss and explore Black history, culture, and literary fiction. August’s book selection is Becoming Lunsford Lane: The Lives of an American Aeneas by Craig Friend. Registration is encouraged.
Free Friday
Friday, August 28
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Mordecai Historic Park
Take a free tour of Mordecai Historic Park! Mordecai Historic Park will offer free tours throughout the day on this special Friday.
First Friday with Raleigh Little Radio
Friday, September 4
6 – 9 p.m.
City of Raleigh Museum
Get ready for pure Raleigh nostalgia. Enjoy listening to vinyl in the gallery and explore albums created in and influenced by our city. This collaboration with Raleigh Little Radio will also include an exciting surprise guest!
Homeschool History Day
Friday, September 11
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mordecai Historic Park
Homeschoolers, become an apprentice for a day at Mordecai Historic Park! Explore historic trades, life skills, and leisure activities including demonstrations and hands on activities. Make historic crafts, play townball, take a special kids’ tour of the Mordecai house, and hop on a trolley ride.
Historic Resources and Museums Program
In July 2012, Raleigh City Council created the Historic Resources and Museums Program, hereinafter the HRM Program, with the express purpose of protecting and programming identified cultural, museum, and historic resources within the City of Raleigh.
The HRM Program manages operations and programs at:
• Borden Building
• City of Raleigh Museum
• Fred Fletcher Amphitheater at Fletcher Park
• John Chavis Memorial Park Carousel – Conservation
• John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center
• Latta University Historic Park
• Moore Square
• Mordecai Historic Park
• Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
• Pullen Park Historic Attractions
• Raleigh Trolleys
• Tucker House
Additionally, The HRM Program manages an artifact collection consisting of more than 32,000 fine and decorative material culture objects.
Raleigh Register
HRM Program Staff
HRM PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Troy Burton
Troy.Burton@RaleighNC.gov
HRM PROGRAM DIRECTOR
HISTORIC SITES
Douglas Porter
Douglas.Porter@RaleighNC.gov
HRM PROGRAM DIRECTOR MUSEUMS
Ernest Dollar
Ernest.Dollar@RaleighNC.gov
HRM CURATOR OF COLLECTIONS
Ainsley Powell
Ainsley.Powell@RaleighNC.gov
HRM CURATOR OF EXHIBITS AND DESIGN
Kathryn Neuhart
Kathryn.Neuhart@RaleighNC.gov
CITY OF RALEIGH MUSEUM
DIRECTOR
Abby Kellerman
Abigail.Kellerman@RaleighNC.Gov
Tucker House 418 N Person Street Raleigh, NC 27601
DR. M.T. POPE HOUSE MUSEUM
SITE DIRECTOR
Hazel Boomer
Hazel.Boomer@RaleighNC.gov
JOHN P. “TOP” GREENE AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL PARK SITE DIRECTOR
Vacant
MOORE SQUARE SITE DIRECTOR
David Gill
David.Gill@RaleighNC.gov
MOORE SQUARE ASSISTANT SITE DIRECTOR
Mykey WIlliams
Mykey.Williams@RaleighNC.gov
MOORE SQUARE PROGRAM MANAGER
Nancy Dragotta
Nancy.Dragotta@RaleighNC.gov
US Postage PAID
Raleigh, NC
Permit No. 813
HISTORIC SITES MANAGER
Josh Ingersoll
Joshua.Ingersoll@RaleighNC.gov
HISTORIC SITES ASSISTANT MANAGER
Lauren May
Lauren.May@RaleighNC.gov
HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS DIRECTOR
Scott Mott
Scott.Mott@RaleighNC.gov
HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS PROGRAM MANAGER
Savannah Hubbard
Savannah.Hubbard@RaleighNC.gov
HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Andrew Boos
Andrew.Boos@RaleighNC.gov
HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Mandy Hunter-Kelly
Amanda.Hunter-Kelly@RaleighNC.gov
Raleigh Parks | Historic Resources and Museum Program