Augusta Museum of History | Augusta

The Augusta Museum of History, established in 1937, stands as the oldest and most comprehensive historical institution in Augusta, Georgia. Located at 560 Reynolds Street in the heart of downtown Augusta, this museum serves as the central repository and interpretive center for the region’s rich and diverse history, spanning over 12,000 years. It is the only accredited museum in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), recognized for its commitment to preserving and presenting authentic historical narratives.

Historical Significance and Mission

The Augusta Museum of History was founded with the mission to collect, preserve, and exhibit artifacts and stories that illustrate the social, cultural, and economic development of Augusta and the surrounding areas. Over the decades, it has grown from a small collection to a major cultural institution, offering a deep exploration of the city’s heritage, from prehistoric times through contemporary history.

Permanent Exhibitions

The museum’s core exhibits provide a well-rounded and immersive look into the region’s past, highlighting key themes such as early settlement, transportation evolution, community service, local heroes, and cultural contributions.

1. Augusta’s Story

This flagship exhibit is a sweeping historical journey through the area’s timeline. It begins with the Stallings Island culture, an archaeological site dating back thousands of years, featuring Native American artifacts that showcase early human life in the region. The exhibit continues through the antebellum period, displaying pottery made by enslaved artisans and other artifacts that illustrate the complexities of Southern life before the Civil War. One standout item is the 12-pounder bronze Napoleon cannon tube, a Civil War-era artillery piece, as well as an 1869 steam fire engine, linked to the catastrophic 1916 fire that devastated parts of Augusta. This exhibit effectively tells the story of Augusta’s transformation from a frontier settlement to a thriving Southern city.

2. Transportation Corridor

This exhibit captures the evolution of transportation in Augusta and its impact on the city’s growth. Key artifacts include a 1914 steam locomotive, which represents the importance of railroads in commerce and travel; a 1930s-era gas station display that reflects the rise of automobile culture; and a 1917 steam trolley, showing early urban public transportation. These elements highlight how advancements in mobility shaped Augusta’s economic and social landscape.

3. Protect and Serve

Dedicated to the history of local law enforcement and firefighting, this exhibit traces the origins and progress of public safety services in Augusta. It includes historical uniforms, equipment, photographs, and documents that honor the dedication and bravery of those who have served the community.

4. The Godfather of Soul, Mr. James Brown

This exhibition honors Augusta’s most famous native, James Brown, whose contributions to music and culture earned him worldwide acclaim. The display features personal artifacts, stage costumes, recordings, photographs, and interactive elements that illustrate Brown’s extraordinary career and influence on soul, funk, and popular music.

5. Celebrating a Grand Tradition: The Sport of Golf

Given Augusta’s global recognition for golf, especially through the Masters Tournament, this exhibit explores the sport’s history and its significance to the region. It features memorabilia, including a Masters Green Jacket, photographs, and stories of notable golfers who have competed at Augusta National Golf Club.

Additional Exhibits and Special Collections

Beyond its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts rotating and thematic displays that further enrich the visitor experience:

Local Legends: Celebrating individuals from Augusta who have made remarkable contributions in areas such as business, education, arts, and civic leadership.

One Man, Two Ships: Lessons in History and Courage: This exhibit honors Aquilla James Dyess, a local hero uniquely awarded both the Carnegie Medal and the Medal of Honor for extraordinary acts of bravery.

A Community That Heals: Showcasing Augusta’s medical history, this exhibit traces the city’s healthcare development from its earliest hospitals to modern medical institutions.

WBBQ Radio: Chronicling the influence of Augusta’s pioneering radio station, highlighting its role in the community and broadcasting history.

Baab’s Bottles: A fascinating collection of antique bottles and containers, reflecting the commercial and domestic history of the region.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

The Augusta Museum of History plays an active role in education and community outreach, offering numerous programs designed to engage a wide audience:

Brown Bag History Lectures: Informal, engaging talks on various historical topics, often led by scholars or local historians.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Exclusive tours that give visitors insight into the museum’s operations, collections care, and exhibit development.

Family Fun Days: Interactive events aimed at children and families, featuring crafts, games, and hands-on learning activities.

Special Annual Events: These include the Juneteenth celebration commemorating African American history and heritage, the Holiday Gingerbread Village showcasing festive artistry, and the "All Aboard! The Museum Express," a train-themed exhibit and event series.

The Ezekiel Harris House

The museum also manages the historic Ezekiel Harris House, located nearby. Built in 1797, this well-preserved home provides a glimpse into late 18th-century architecture and lifestyle in Augusta. The house is furnished with period pieces and offers exhibits about Ezekiel Harris, a prominent early Augusta merchant and landowner. This site adds a tangible connection to the city’s colonial and early American past.

Visitor Information

Location: 560 Reynolds Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901

Hours: Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed Monday through Wednesday.

Admission: General admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children aged 6 to 18. Children under six enter free, and members have complimentary admission.

The museum is easily accessible and situated close to other major Augusta attractions such as the Augusta Riverwalk and the James Brown statue, making it a key stop for anyone interested in the area’s heritage.

Summary

The Augusta Museum of History provides an in-depth, richly layered narrative of Augusta and its surrounding region. It combines artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programming to bring to life the stories of its people, industries, culture, and historic events. The museum offers a comprehensive experience that appeals to history enthusiasts, families, educators, and tourists, making it a cornerstone institution in preserving and celebrating Augusta’s unique identity.