Raleigh Register Official Newsletter of the Historic Resources and Museum Program
Volume 46
WINTER 2026 919.996.4772 Raleighnc.gov/museums
2
Raleigh Register
Administrator’s Letter
Greetings from the Historic Resources and Museums (HRM) Program! This winter edition of the Raleigh Register focuses on our part-time staff. Did you know that the HRM Program employs more than 300 part-time staff at any one time at our sites, museums, and attractions. These staff perform critical roles for us at all our facilities such as conducting tours, driving trains, and creating exhibits among a litany of other tasks. Suffice to say we would not be able to deliver our wonderful programming without their contributions. So please take the time to learn more about our phenomenal part-staff in this edition. Please continue to check our website raleighnc.gov/museums for the latest updates on events and program details. As always, thank you for your support of the HRM Program.
Troy Burton
Administrator HRM Program 919-996-4772 troy.burton@raleighnc.gov
Follow Us
Check our social media for the newest additions of upcoming events at all of our sites! RaleighParks
Cover Photograph: During Homeschool History Day, part-time Museum Educator Cody Shively teaches guests about the Mordecai House. The Dining Room table is set with ceramics and silver in a symmetrical way indicative to 1820s place settings.
Chair’s Letter
As we ease into a new year, and the pace of life briefly slows, the winter season provides a much-needed opportunity for reflection. After the chaos of the holiday season (looking at you, Holiday Express!), this is the perfect time to contemplate one of the key reasons why our parks, museums, and historic sites are so beloved and successful: our amazing part-time staff. Part-time staff play a vital role in keeping our parks, historic sites, and cultural programs running smoothly. They are often the first and last representatives our guests encounter, answering endless questions and assisting in ways both large and small. They lead tours, support school groups, assist with camps and events, and facilitate programming. They care for our historic sites, landscapes, and collections. They step in wherever they are needed, often wearing many hats at once. They provide educational and interpretive experiences that connect the public with Raleigh’s rich historic and cultural heritage in meaningful and memorable ways. To all of our part-time staff: thank you for your commitment, your professionalism, and your unwavering enthusiasm. Our parks and our historic and cultural resources are stronger because of you!
Jenny Harper
Chair HRM Advisory Board
3
Raleigh Register
Collections Corner: Dinner is Served! Ainsley Powell, Curator of Collections
Dinner fork from St. Savior’s Church, 1920-1950
Butter knife with Mordecai descendent initials “JKVS” engraved on the handle, after 1905. Courtesy of Capital Area Preservation, Inc. Printed photograph of the “Female Dining Room,” located at the State Hospital for the Insane, 1924
Embroidered napkin used by the Pope family, date unknown
Andrew Jackson Day Dinner program with menu, January 8, 1940
Elaborate serving dish, 1804-1820. Courtesy of Capital Area Preservation, Inc.
4
Raleigh Register
Dinner Party We asked part-time staff across the HRM Program to consider a person from Raleigh’s past that they’d like to ask to dinner and why. Keep reading to learn more about the dinner party guests, both past and present. I would love to sit down with Elizabeth Murray Reid, or better yet, walk through some of Raleigh’s historical sites with her. As someone who has only lived in North Carolina for the last few years, I would be very interested in learning from someone who has single-handedly documented, researched, and published books on many of the different sites and peoples that make Raleigh’s history so vibrant. Name: MG Guzik Role: Exhibit Specialist Hometown: Summit Point, WV Site(s) worked: Program-wide As a lifelong learner, maker, and doer, I am naturally drawn to the world of exhibits! Being able to work directly with my community in providing educational and inspirational experiences to all is so rewarding. I would like to invite Thomas I. Hines to dinner. He served as the head of the Department of Industrial and Rural Recreation at NC State from 1947 to 1978. He was a strong advocate for lifelong learning and professional development in the parks and recreation field. Hines aimed to provide parks and recreation professionals with skills and credentials. I would like to show him how far his efforts have come. I would ask him all advice he had to continue to grow and improve our parks and communities. Name: Kyle Scott Role: Program Coordinator Hometown: Muskogee, OK Site(s) worked: Moore Square, Pullen Park Ever since I was young, I have been driven to help people in my community and the surrounding environments. I wanted to be involved in something that benefits both. Where I work now, I can help plan and implement programs and events while also educating people on the history of the area and the wildlife that live here.
5
Raleigh Register
I’d love to dine with Mollie Huston Lee. Born in 1907, she expanded library services for Black residents in Raleigh and Wake County. After teaching at Shaw University, Lee founded the Richard B. Harrison Library in 1935 and developed a collection of over 5,000 volumes on black history and experiences. Throughout her 47-year career, she enhanced access to literature in rural areas through bookmobiles and created various programs that provided adult education for underserved groups. As Raleigh’s first African American librarian and a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) delegate, Lee had a lasting impact on Raleigh’s history and made knowledge accessible to all. Name: Emily Dawes Role: Museum Educator Hometown: Apex, NC Site(s) worked: City of Raleigh Museum, Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum, John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center I was drawn to public history because I want to inspire a love of learning in people of all ages! History is ever-changing with millions of intersecting stories that explain the world we live in today. At the John P. Top Greene African American Cultural Center, I love highlighting the stories of local legends and helping to foster a sense of community. One of the most interesting people in Raleigh has to be Joel Lane. He permeated all parts of the state and federal government, helping build our capital and the prominent county it sits in. His decisions were remarkable and successful; from pushing the Revolution to essentially developing half of the Mordecai family. He always seemed to rise, despite the circumstances of the era. One question I would most definitely ask about: Cherry Bounce. Was the entire future of Raleigh really changed with just one recipe? Or was he just a smooth talker with too much information? Name: Ashley Nathey Oliver Role: Trolley Guide Hometown: Raleigh, NC Site(s) worked: Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh Trolleys I have always been a ‘why’ person. I need to know the reasons we do the things we do. In order to do that, we must dig down deep, both figuratively and literally. It brings me so much joy to tie together facts and information into beautifully rediscovered stories that can be retold and appreciated by the masses.
6
Raleigh Register
John W. Winters was the first African American Raleigh city councilman of the 20th century and later served in the N.C. State Senate. He was also a successful real estate developer who worked to improve the lives of Raleigh’s Black community, developing the Madonna Acres subdivision in Southeast Raleigh. I’d ask him what it was like being a descendant of a Raleigh family of free Blacks and how he overcame the many obstacles that he surely faced to achieve his individual success and have the desire to improve the lives of others in the Black community. Name: Quince A Reynolds Role: Historic Sites Rental Staff Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA Site(s) worked: Borden Building, Mordecai Historic Park, Tucker House As a recent retiree, I was looking for a part-time position that would allow me to continue to interact with people in an interesting way. I’ve also always enjoyed learning history. This job gives me a chance to do both and have fun at the same time. I’d invite Lunsford Lane; someone whose life shows both the struggles and the quiet strength woven into Raleigh’s history. He was born enslaved here, built a small business through determination, and fought for his family’s freedom despite impossible odds. I’d want to share a meal and simply listen to how he found hope, what kept him moving, and what he wished this city could become. His story reminds me that public history is about people first, and their resilience, courage, and the everyday choices that shape our community. Name: Billy Rutherford Role: Historic Sites Program Specialist Hometown: Raleigh, NC Site(s) worked: Borden Building, Fletcher Park, Mordecai Historic Park I’m drawn to public history because it turns places into stories people can actually experience. Working with historic sites lets me connect daily decisions like programming, interpretation, and preservation, to the lives of real residents. I like the challenge of asking whether we’re telling the full story, who isn’t represented, and how we can make these spaces more welcoming and useful. This work combines research, community engagement, and problem-solving, which fits the way I think and the way I like to work.
7
Raleigh Register
Anna Julia Cooper was born enslaved in Raleigh in 1858. Cooper began her lifelong education after emancipation, eventually earning a PHD at 66. In her 1892 book, Cooper wrote, “The cause of freedom… is the cause of humankind, the very birthright of humanity.” The ability of a woman born into slavery to dedicate her life to exploring and pursuing the cause of freedom, to acknowledge that freedom goes beyond breaking the system of bondage she was born into, makes her the kind of radical, passionate person I would be privileged to have as a dinner guest. Name: Ava Darden Role: Museum Educator Hometown: Raleigh, NC Site(s) worked: City of Raleigh Museum, Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum Working for HRM is so fun because I’ve loved history since I was little and I love the opportunity to do something different every day! If I could invite one historical person related to Raleigh to dinner, it would be Mattie Curtis. While working at Mordecai Historic Park, we talk about these formerly enslaved people’s experiences, learning from the WPA Slave Narratives and other sources we can find. It would be an incredible experience to actually sit across the table from them and hear their stories first-hand. Name: Addie Magyar Role: Museum Educator Hometown: Greensboro, NC Site(s) worked: Mordecai Historic Park I have always been interested in museum work, and I studied art history in college! I really enjoy being able to help preserve history and to provide access and education to others. I would love to have dinner with Ruth Pope, Dr. M.T. Pope’s youngest daughter. I spend a lot of time researching the Pope family and talking to our guests about who they were, and she is the member of the family I am most intrigued by. When she was a teacher at Chapel Hill High in the early 1970s, she is quoted in an article as saying that she cared deeply about her students’ mental health. She was ahead of her time, and I would love to ask her viewpoints on just about anything. Name: Maggie Damghani Role: Museum Educator Hometown: Fayetteville, NC Site(s) worked: City of Raleigh Museum, Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum I work in Public History because I love storytelling and writing. I enjoy sharing stories with people and seeing on their faces that it really meant something to them. It is a wonderful feeling to relate history to someone and know that it touched them in some way.
Upcoming Events 8
Through the Thresholds: History of Moore Square Walking Tour
Fridays, January – March 2 p.m. Saturdays, January – March 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Moore Square With more than 230 years as one of Raleigh’s original five public green spaces, Moore Square has a lot to share! Join us for a free and fascinating tour of our four-acre urban oasis. The 30-minute walking tour will start at the Moore Square Visitor Center and explore both Moore Square Park and its visitor center.
First Friday
January 2, February 6, and March 6 6 – 9 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Join us at the City of Raleigh Museum for this month’s First Friday event! This ongoing free program takes place on the first Friday of every month and provides a lively and engaging way to connect with the local Raleigh community. First Fridays may feature a unique theme, including performances, crafts, and educational opportunities. It’s a fantastic way to explore the museum in an upbeat and enjoyable atmosphere!
Emancipation Day Breakfast Saturday, January 3 9 – 10 a.m. City of Raleigh Museum
Enjoy a catered breakfast while learning about the history of the Emancipation Proclamation and freedom. Tickets will be on sale soon. For more information, please call (919) 996-2220.
Emancipation Day Trolley: Oberlin Village Tour Saturday, January 3 10 – 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
Located on the outskirts of Raleigh, Oberlin Village was a vibrant African American community established after the Civil War. Celebrate Emancipation Day by joining local historian Carmen Wimberly Cauthen and Cheryl Williams for a guided tour of Oberlin Village. Cost is $15/adults and $6/children. Registration is required.
Raleigh Register
Walk Moore!
January 5, 12, 19, and 26 February 6, 13, 20, and 27 March 6, 13, 20, and 27 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Moore Square Walking is a great way to support mental and physical health. Join Raleigh Parks staff and other walkers for a leisurely, low-impact stroll around the Square and take in the nature sights as well as learn a little about the history of the park and the surrounding features. Program is for all ages and fitness levels and is free and open to the public. *Staff will guide the first 30 minutes of the walk, after that, program is selfguided. Meeting point is the corner of Martin and Blount by the first threshold inscription. Wear comfortable clothing and close-toed walking shoes or sneakers.
Lunchbox Lecture
January 8, February 12, and March 12 (3rd Thursday of each month) 12 – 1 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Feed your belly and your brain! Bring your lunch to the City of Raleigh Museum and listen to a captivating lecture every third Thursday of the month. Lectures will run for 30 minutes and topics vary each month.
Family Fun Day
January 10, February 14, and March 14 (2nd Saturday of each month) 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Join the City of Raleigh Museum for a program that is both educational and entertaining for families. At this free program, you’ll find a fresh theme that allows you to explore the museum in exciting and new ways. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to bond with your family while learning something new each month!
Upcoming Events 9
Women’s Literary Readers of Southeast Raleigh
January 10, February 14, and March 14 (2nd Saturday of each month) 2 – 4 p.m. John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center This program offers an inspiring and thoughtprovoking gathering where readers can dive deeply into monthly selections and explore the meaning behind the stories. Whether participants enjoy fiction, memoirs, poetry, or nonfiction, this welcoming space encourages open dialogue, different perspectives, and meaningful connections. Together, we aim to build a community of women who read, reflect, and rise through literature. We are proud to highlight Patricia Nwosu, a respected academic and community leader.
Veterans and Coffee
January 13, February 10, and March 10 (2nd Tuesday of each month) 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center We’re proud to offer this community event dedicated to supporting and educating our local veterans. Each month, we’ll host a one-hour workshop focused on important topics that matter to those who’ve served. Led by Elree T. Smith, Past Department Commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of North Carolina. Come enjoy a cup of coffee, connect with fellow veterans, and gain helpful insights. First Session Topic: Veterans’ Benefits. This is a free event for ages 18+.
Plant Swap
Saturday, January 17 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Calling all plant lovers! Join us for an exciting plant swap event. Bring your favorite house and garden plants or homegrown vegetables to trade with fellow plant enthusiasts. We ask that you bring only healthy, pest-free plants to ensure everyone’s enjoyment. This event is free and open to the public.
Raleigh Register
When Community Gathers
Sunday, January 18 3 – 6 p.m. John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Center Join us on the eve of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, as we come together to celebrate unity and community through music, dance, and art. In honor of our ancestors, we invite you to wear African or Afrocentric attire to show your solidarity and pride. Enjoy light refreshments and be inspired by the power of community. No registration needed - just bring yourself and your beautiful attire! This event is hosted by the North Carolina Black Women Empowered 50+ Group.
Free Friday
Friday, January 23 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Mordecai Historic Park Take a free tour of Mordecai Historic Park! Tours include the Mordecai House, Andrew Johnson’s Birthplace, and St. Mark’s Chapel. The first tour will begin at 10 a.m. and the last tour starts at 3 p.m. Tours start every 30 minutes at the Visitor Center and are limited to 20 people on a firstcome, first-served basis. Please note that online registration does NOT reserve you a tour. Please stop by the Visitor Center (1101 Wake Forest Rd) to reserve a tour slot. For more information, please call 919-996-4364.
First Friday: Sk8 Raleigh Friday, February 6 6 – 9 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum
Join us for an exciting First Friday event in partnership with Sk8 Raleigh. Learn and chat about all things Raleigh skateboarding! This is a free event.
Upcoming Events 10
We SHALL Overcome: Celebrating 60 Years of the Civil Rights Movement in Raleigh Thursday, February 12 6:30 – 8 p.m. Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
This plenary will highlight and honor youth participation in the Civil Rights movement and will discuss future youth activism. The event is free.
Craft Corner: Valentine’s Day Edition Friday, February 13 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Moore Square
Explore the history of exchanging Valentine’s and create some to take and share. *This is a free activity, appropriate for all ages, however guests under three may need assistance with the materials. In case of inclement weather, activity will be offered in the Visitor Center.
Gals & Pals Vintage Valentine’s Party Friday, February 13 7 – 9 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum
Join us at the City of Raleigh Museum to make vintage-inspired Valentine’s Day cards while sipping wine, champagne, or eating local chocolates. All supplies for card making, two glasses of wine, and chocolates are included in ticket price. Purchase tickets online by visiting cityofraleighmuseum.org.
Night in the Museum
Saturday, February 14 5 – 9 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Ever wondered what night is like in the museum? Bring your sense of adventure to the City of Raleigh Museum! Kids ages 4+ can dive into hands-on activities as well as a pizza dinner. While your little explorers are making new friends and memories, you get a guilt-free night off. Don’t miss this playful chance for fun and discovery!
Raleigh Register
Black History Trolley Tour Saturday, February 21 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Historic Raleigh Trolley
Join the Historic Raleigh Trolley for this special edition of our popular Black history tour highlighting Oberlin Village. Tours will begin at Mordecai Historic Park and travel to Oberlin, where passengers will disembark for a tour of the Historic Turner House and Oberlin Cemetery and learn about the neighborhood’s history of community and freedom. Each tour lasts approximately one hour. Registration is $15 and can be purchased online using RecLink. For more information, please call the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center at 919-996-4364.
Raleigh Rising Creatives Saturday, February 21 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum
Gear up to celebrate Raleigh’s rising creatives. Our High School Student Council is turning the museum into the ultimate creative playground— think art competitions, jam sessions, and a student-run art market buzzing with energy.
Evelyn’s Book Club
Wednesday, February 25 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. February’s book selection is Mama Day by Gloria Naylor. Registration is required.
Upcoming Events 11
Raleigh Register
Saturday Trolley Tours
Away with the Fairies
Join us Saturdays from March through December for a narrated, hour-long tour of downtown Raleigh. Tours depart from Mordecai Historic Park at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Tickets are available up to one month in advance online at reclink.raleighnc.gov under the “Tours” section, or in person at the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center. Please call 919-996-4364 for more information.
Enter a market full of fairies, dragons, mischief and more at this themed family event presented by Mordecai Historic Park in partnership with Paper & Stars Studio. The event will showcase local makers, food vendors, and independent businesses. Enjoy free crafts and activities, find the perfect handmade treasures, and learn about local children’s programs - all while enjoying great food and fun. Don’t forget to wear your best fairy or fantasy attire!
Saturday, March 7 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Historic Raleigh Trolley
Animal Adoption Day
Saturday, March 7 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. City of Raleigh Museum Meet adorable cats and dogs seeking forever homes from local adoption agencies. Come experience the love and connection that awaits—you might just find your perfect companion! This event is free and open to everyone.
Nash Square History Stroll Friday, March 20 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Nash Square
Nash Square is one of Raleigh’s original “Beautiful Breathing Spaces.” Take a guided stroll through the park to learn more about its beginnings and historical significance. Visit the Fallen Firefighters Memorial and walk among some of the oldest trees in the city. *This walk is about 30 minutes. Please wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven turrain and dress for the weather.
Saturday, March 21 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Mordecai Historic Park
This event is free and open to the public. Go to the Paper and Stars Studio Eventbrite to register to receive event updates! For questions or more information, please call the Mordecai Historic Park Visitor Center at 919-996-4364.
Black Neighborhoods of Raleigh Walking Tour Saturdays, March 21 and 28 1 p.m. Sundays, March 22 and 29 2 p.m. Dr. M.T. Pope House Museum
Explore one of Raleigh’s oldest and most influential Black neighborhoods! Located near Shaw University, the Third Ward was a vibrant community of culture, business, and education. $10/adult and $5/child (ages 5-17). Registration is required.
Mordecai Egg Hunt
Saturday, March 28 10 a.m.. – 12:30 p.m. Mordecai Historic Park Join us at Mordecai Historic Park for a fun-filled morning! Egg hunts will begin at 11 a.m. for age groups 0-4, 5-9, and 10 and up. Come before and stay after for crafts, games, and more spring activities. This is a free event and registration is not required. Please call the Mordecai Visitor Center at 919-996-4364 for more information.
Historic Resources and Museum Program In July 2012, Raleigh City Council created the Historic Resources and Museum Program, hereinafter the HRM Program, with the express purpose of protecting and programming identified cultural, museum, and historic resources within the City of Raleigh.
Tucker House 418 N Person Street Raleigh, NC 27601
PRSRT STD US Postage
PAID
Raleigh, NC Permit No. 813
The HRM Program manages operations and programs at: • Borden Building and Stone Circle at Fletcher Park • City of Raleigh Museum • Fred Fletcher Amphitheater at Fletcher Park • John Chavis Memorial Park Carousel – Conservation • John P. “Top” Greene African American Cultural Park • 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 Raleigh Parks | Historic Resources and Museum Program
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
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
raleighnc.gov/museums
HISTORIC SITES MANAGER Josh Ingersoll Joshua.Ingersoll@RaleighNC.gov HISTORIC SITES ASSISTANT MANAGER Kimberly Oliver Kimberly.Oliver@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