Housed in the 1852 Hoffman Hotel, Gaston County Museum contains hundreds of thousands of objects, artifacts, documents, and photographs that trace the area's history from the 1500s to the present day. Visitors should begin with the Hoffman Hotel itself, where they can visit hotel rooms and parlors with authentic period furnishings, and view the hotel's unique Greek revival architectural details.
Displays include the Carolinas Textile Exhibit, which explores how cotton textile manufacturing transformed the area, and features an original 1884 Edison generator, the Loray Mill whistle, and a period ball gown and baseball uniform. The Daniel Stowe Carriage House, with its impressive collection of horse-drawn sleighs, drays, and buggies, takes guests back in time before the invention of the automobile.
The Museum also hosts concerts, art camps, and an informative Coffee with the Curator program. Guests should stop by the Museum Shop for unusual gifts, specialty books, and handcrafted items.
