This Second Empire-style cottage, built in 1883, features a three-stage central tower decorated with fan ornamentation and a mansard roof. Located in the Oakwood Historic District in Hickory, the Propst House is surrounded by other well-maintained buildings of historical merit. Now used as a museum, the interior is adorned with a variety of turned and carved ornamentation.
Serving as both a dedication and an education resource, the Catawba County Firefighters Museum depicts the history of firefighting in the county since the early 20th century. Displays in the museum range from antique lights and sirens to uniforms and breathing equipment from the early 1900s. The main attractions are the museum's six classic fire trucks from 1936 - 1954. The Catawba County Firefighters Museum is located three miles north of downtown Conover just west of Hickory.
The Catawba County Museum of History chronicles the county's rich history through a collection of locally carved, world-renowned furniture and various textiles produced by the settlers of the Catawba River Valley. Also housed in the museum are various Civil War artifacts, including antique battle-tested firearms and an 1861 Confederate flag locally made and dyed. Contained within the 1924 Catawba County Courthouse, the museum is located on the square in downtown Newton.
Housed in a former train depot built at the turn of the 20th century, the Hudson Railroad Depot Museum chronicles the history of the town of Hudson and the local railroad industry through photographs and artifacts. A highlight of the museum is its collection of several restored cabooses including a 1912 wood-sided Rear Cupola and a Delaware & Hudson. Located adjacent to Hickman Windmill Park, the museum is in downtown, behind the town office building.
Hours of Operation:
Open by appointment and during special events.
Free Admission
Hudson Railroad Depot Museum
550 Central St
Hudson, NC 28638
(828) 728-8272
Waldensian Museum
The museum displays artifacts chronicling the history of Valdese since the arrival of Italian immigrants in 1893, specifically the heritage of the Waldensian settlers. It is located a few blocks southwest of the Waldensian Presbyterian Church, which runs the museum. Displays include items such as photographs, tools, books, clothing and household items.
Hours of Operation:
Tours run Tue. - Fri., 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and by appointment