Haywood County, NC Public Museums
Haywood County is home to a handful of museums that are open to the public at various times throughout the year. These storehouses of history and heritage are excellent resources for research. Remember, it is always a good idea to call ahead and verify the type of materials available for viewing, hours of operation, and any fees that may be related to a visit.
The Museum of Haywood County History
Located at the Historic Shook-Smathers House on Morgan Street in Clyde, North Carolina, The Museum of Haywood County History uses the history of founding members of the community and their descendants to highlight the vibrant and unique history of Haywood County. On September 12, 2008 this beautiful house was given Historic Preservation status and added to the National Register of Historic Places. The house, which dates c. 1795 is the oldest timber framed structure west of the Blue Ridge.
In 2011, the Shook-Smathers House was donated to the Haywood County Historical & Genealogical Society by Dr. Joseph Hall, a Shook Family descendent and major benefactor of the house’s restoration and upkeep in the early 2000s and 2010s.
The Museum of Haywood County History has since been reinterpreted to offer a more holistic view of the county, heavily featuring the stories of the Shook and Smathers families while communicating their greater context within the local community. The museum is open for guided tours and is currently operating by appointment only. Tours are approximately one hour and are conducted by trained volunteer docents. For additional information about touring the Museum of Haywood County History at the Historic Shook-Smathers House, please contact the Haywood County Historical & Genealogical Society. The property is available year round for special events and group tours.
The Canton Area History Museum
The Canton Area History Museum is located on Park Street in the former Canton Branch Library in downtown Canton, North Carolina. The museum was dedicated on Labor Day 1990 and is home to a wonderful overview history of the Canton Area with its agricultural and industrial roots. One entire area has been dedicated to the paper mill industry and illustrates the processes used to make paper. The museum is a nonprofit, educational institution and serves as a Visitor’s Center in downtown Canton
The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts
The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts at the Shelton House is located on Shelton Street in Waynesville, NC. The Shelton House, built in 1875, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts features various exhibits of 19th century crafts including items such as traditional quilts, hand crafted instruments, pottery, furniture and a collection of Native American artifacts. Additional information is available on the Shelton House website.
The Performing Arts Center at the Shelton House is home to HART, the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre. HART was founded in 1985 and serves as a volunteer-based community theatre showcasing the talents of the local community. The Performing Arts Center opened in 1997 through the support of the community.