Gaston County Museum Turns 50 in 2026: Exploring Dallas, NC’s Cultural and Historical Gem

The Gaston County Museum in Dallas, North Carolina, is turning 50 in 2026, marking 50 years of sharing the region's rich art and history. As one of only nine museums in the state with Top Tier accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, it has long been a cornerstone of the community, offering exhibits, programs, research, and educational opportunities for locals and visitors alike—often free or at a nominal cost.

"There is so much excitement surrounding the museum's upcoming anniversary and for the museum as a storied and valuable community asset," says Laurel Morris, chair of the Museum's Board of Trustees. "And not many people realize the tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes research that goes on every day that is shared with visitors, students, academics, and community organizations across the country."

"I'm really proud of our museum," adds Museum Director Alexandrea Pizza. "For 50 years, we've provided outstanding exhibits, programs, research, consulting services, and activities for our community."

Feature Exhibits at the Gaston County Museum

The Old Fashioned Way: A Tony’s Ice Cream Story

This new feature exhibit explores the history behind the beloved Gastonia landmark, Tony's Ice Cream.

Dr. John T. Biggers & James C. Biggers Exhibit

Visitors can also preview an extraordinary artwork by Dr. John T. Biggers and his nephew James C. Biggers. This intimate exhibit was guest curated by Kenlontae Turner of the Hampton University Museum, highlighting the Biggers' impact on art and culture.

Museum Features & Permanent Exhibits

The Gaston County Museum spans three floors of exhibits in the historic Hoffman Hotel.

• Daniel Stowe Carriage House: North Carolina's most extensive collection of horse-drawn vehicles

• Bullpen Gallery: Rotating art exhibits celebrating local and regional creativity

• The Ties That Bind: Explore the history behind the county's most storied industries

• Sculpture Garden: Outdoor collection of 8 works by local artists

• Hoffman Hotel Rooms: Period rooms showcasing the museum's hotel history

• Depot Gallery: The Carolina & Northwestern Train Depot, built in 1903, now hosts art exhibits

  
  

Upcoming Exhibits

• Making Our Voices Heard – Jan 9, 2026 – Jun 27, 2026

• Joshua Braswell, MAKERS of NC – Feb 10 – Apr 18, 2026

• Shakeeka Watts Brooks, Title TBD – Apr 24 – Aug 22, 2026

• When Are We US?, curated by NC250 – Jul 3, 2026 – Jan 9, 2027

• Ingrid Swanson, Title TBD – Sep 4, 2026 – Jan 2, 2027

---

Hours: Monday–Friday 10 am–5 pm, Saturday 11 am–4 pm

Location: 131 West Main Street, Dallas, NC 28034

Parking: Free on-street parking around Historic Dallas Courthouse Square; additional parking at the Carriage House entrance at 106 W. Church Street

Pro Tip: Plan 1.5–2 hours to explore the museum fully, and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in historic Downtown Dallas, NC.

Second Location: The Kessell History Center in Gastonia

Located in the renovated Loray Mill, the Alfred C. Kessell History Center features a multimedia exhibit on the history of the Loray/Firestone mill, its employees, and the surrounding mill village.

Address: 300 S Firestone St., Gastonia, NC 28052

Hours: Monday–Friday 9 am–5 pm

Parking: Free on-site

---

Gaston County Museum 50th Anniversary Community Campaign

With an eye on the Gaston County Museum 50th Anniversary in 2026, celebrating five decades of art, history, and community engagement, to mark this milestone, the museum has launched "50 Years, 50 Days, $50,000", a special campaign to grow membership and support future exhibits.

Follow along to learn more about the anniversary, upcoming exhibits, and how the museum continues to enrich visitors and residents of Gaston County alike.