Museum Shop at the N.C. Museum of History: Retail on Bicentennial Plaza
The next time you are around Raleigh’s downtown, stroll down Bicentennial Plaza and drop into the N.C. Museum of History for a little shopping – yes, shopping at the Museum Shop, that is. Located just off the lobby, the Museum Shop at the N.C. Museum of History features distinctive items reflecting North Carolina’s rich heritage with a mix of jewelry, pottery, collectibles and thematic gifts.
From the tastes of the state to pictorial essays and musical sounds of North Carolina, it’s easy to lose track of time reading the quirky product names of locally produced barbecue sauce and jams, or flipping through the many books and musical compact disc collections all the while with a little bluegrass or Americana playing in the background.
Browsing around the Museum Shop offers a peak into the many artistic creations of some of the state’s fine craftsmen. Woodworkers, glassblowers, metal crafters and potters from around North Carolina are represented. Find pottery from generational potters, many whose family members may have pieces showcased in the N.C. Museum of History’s permanent collection.
Award-winning potter Ben Owen, the third generation of potters in his family, has showcased his items in the shop since its opening in 1994. Some of his pieces currently highlighted include his signature Chinese Red glaze vessels. Also of special note in the shop are pieces from Westmore Pottery and New Salem. These pottery pieces are both functional and historically accurate, representing German influences from the beginning of the craft in North Carolina.
The shop also features exclusive items for the collector of all things North Carolina. Since 1983, solid brass, 24-karat gold plated ornaments with images and symbols of "The Old North State" have been sold exclusively at the Museum Shop. Generally priced between $15 and $16, a new one is released each year. Growing in popularity is an additional ornament series, Seasons of the Capitol. So far, a holiday image and an autumn image have been released with a spring image due out later this year.
Also exclusive to the shop is the Stuart Nye jewelry collection. The Capitol Copper series is particularly coveted. Designer rings, bracelets, cuff links and other items featuring the dogwood image are made from copper removed from the roof of the State Capitol during its exterior restoration in 1972.
And for the little ones that are familiarizing themselves with the history of North Carolina, there are plenty of period toys to be found for both educational and recreational functions. From Blackbeard’s pirate ship, to Civil War memorabilia and pioneer folk toys made in the Appalachian Mountains, there’s a little something for the kids – not to mention Mayberry-opoly, the trivia board game for those big kids who fondly remember "The Andy Griffith Show."
HelloRaleigh Tip: Opening in mid-April with the final phase to debut in November is the long-awaited permanent exhibition, The Story of North Carolina. This 20,000 square foot chronological exhibit will trace each chapter of the state’s detailed history. Look for even more creative merchandise from North Carolina artisans to be unveiled at the Museum Shop as the grand opening approaches.
Posted on Feb 21, 2011 by Angela Risko
