As 2023 came to a close, the NC History Center reflected on progress made towards the new  North Carolina Civil War & Reconstruction History Center, slated to open its main facility in 2027 and the milestones that are on the agenda for the coming months and year. 

The museum recently secured an additional $5 million from the State of North Carolina to bring the total from the State so far for Phases 1, 2, and 3—as well as the initial $1 million planning grant—to $70.6 million. The State’s continuing support will help pay the increasing costs of building materials, equipment and exhibits due to inflation.

Additionally, they recently received $200,000 of a $1 million total commitment made by a foundation that wishes to remain anonymous. A trust in Raleigh has also pledged $300,000 over three years for their education program in the eastern part of the state. 

On Dec. 14 the board submitted a grant request to the Cannon Foundation, located in Concord, for $100,000 to help offset the increased costs of their future Pavilion, whose construction is expected to begin by February 2024 and be complete in August 2024.

The History Center’s leadership is refining the plans for Phase 3’s main facility and grounds and continuing content development on exhibits. They expect to complete the 50,000 square foot educational center in 2027.

The costs to complete Phases 2 and 3, to run their three-year education program, and to pay operating expenses through much of fiscal year 2026-27 until the State takes over operations are estimated at $84.0 million. More than $3 million is needed to create this educational center for students of all ages with interactive exhibits, factual digital content, and outreach across the state of North Carolina and its public and private school systems.

There’s still funding to be generated and plans to be finalized, but with an updated website and construction on the horizon, the new center has a lot of updates to come.