LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Smith-McDowell House Museum

Discover Asheville's first mansion and oldest surviving structure, now restored as a history museum.

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Related pages

  • The Mill Prong House: This historic home was restored in 1993 and was built by John Gilchrist, an important political and social leader in this area in 1802.
  • Buckner Hill Plantation: This plantation home is a good example of Greek Revival architecture. It features elaborate plaster moldings, high ceilings, and wide halls and the rooms are furnished with period furniture. Open by appointment only.
  • Fort Defiance: Visitors to this historic home will see one of the most unique restorations in the county. The home contains over 300 pieces of original furnishings and artifacts from the Revolutionary War period and later.

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Built by one of antebellum North Carolina’s most influential citizens, this National Register property was once the home of mayors, a Confederate Major, and friends of the Vanderbilts. In addition to restored period rooms spanning 1840 through 1900, the Museum also features special history exhibits in our Gallery Rooms.

The Museum offers a variety of programs for school-aged audiences, including programs and tours in conjunction with special exhibits. All programs are adjusted to be age appropriate and to match the NC Standard Course of Study. For more information call the Museum at 828-253-9231 or e-mail smh@wnchistory.org

The Smith McDowell House is open Tuesday through Sunday and is located on the campus of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College at 283 Victoria Road in Asheville, NC.

The Museum has developed educational traveling trunks for classroom use. Each trunk includes theme-appropriate artifacts and a curriculum guide. The cost is $10 for a three-day loan - the trunk is picked up the first day, used in the classroom for two days, and returned the afternoon of the second day. Curriculum guides are usually available in advance. Advance registration is required.

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