Augusta Museum of History facts for kids
The Augusta Museum of History is a history museum located in Augusta, Georgia, U.S. It was started in 1937. The museum's goal is to save and share the stories of Augusta and the area around it. You can see many old items, pictures, and displays that show the region's long history. This museum is the only one in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) that is officially recognized by the American Alliance of Museums. The CSRA includes counties in both Georgia and South Carolina.
Contents
Exploring Augusta's Past: Permanent Exhibits
The museum has several exciting exhibits that are always on display. They help visitors learn about different parts of Augusta's history.
Augusta's Story: From Ancient Times to Today
This exhibit takes you on a journey through the region's history. It starts from very old times, even before written records, and goes all the way to modern figures like James Brown, known as the "Godfather of Soul." You can see a model of an ancient culture from Stallings Island. There's also pottery made by enslaved people from before the Civil War. Other cool items include a large bronze cannon and an old steam fire engine from 1869. This fire engine shows how much damage the big fire of 1916 caused. You can also use an interactive computer to learn more about the American Revolution.
One Man, Two Ships: Lessons in History and Courage
This exhibit shares information about two ships, the USS Dyess and the USS Augusta. It teaches about important moments in history and brave actions.
WBBQ: A Look at a Famous Radio Station
This exhibit highlights WBBQ, one of Augusta's most popular radio stations. A newer part of the exhibit, "WBBQ: Then and Now," celebrates the station's 60th Anniversary. You can find this exhibit on the second floor of the museum.
The Georgia Railroad and Banking Company
Called "Into the Interior: A History of the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company," this exhibit is in a special center for preserving local history. It shows items from the company's 153-year history. You can see old railroad maps, a locomotive bell, and stock books. The Georgia Railroad and Banking Company started in 1835. It was a very important company for Augusta and the state of Georgia.
Local Legends: Famous People from the Area
This exhibit celebrates talented people from the Augusta area. It features entertainers, musicians, singers, authors, athletes, journalists, and other well-known personalities.
The Transportation Corridor: How People Moved Around
This exhibit shows how people and goods have traveled in the region over the last 150 years. You can see many different types of vehicles. Some examples include a 1900 Farm Wagon, a 1917 Steam Locomotive, and a 1952 Dodge Power Wagon. There's even a rebuilt 1930s Gas Station in the exhibit.
Special Exhibitions: Changing Displays
The museum also features special exhibits that change over time, offering new things to see.
The Godfather of Soul, Mr. James Brown
This exhibit tells the life story of James Brown and how he became famous worldwide. It displays items and costumes he wore during his performances over many years. One special item is the "King of Soul" crown he wore in the 1950s. The exhibit also includes programs from his memorial services held in New York City, Augusta, and South Carolina. Interactive screens, called Kiosks, make the exhibit even more fun for visitors.
Celebrating a Grand Tradition: The Sport of Golf
This exhibit explores how the sport of golf has changed over hundreds of years. It shows how golf tees, balls, clubs, and other gear have improved with technology. It also covers the history of golf in the Augusta area.
A Community That Heals: Augusta's Medical History
This exhibit looks at 200 years of medical history in Augusta. The first hospital was built in 1818 on Greene Street. This building was also the first home of the Medical College of Georgia.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is located at 560 Reynolds Street in downtown Augusta. It is open from Thursday through Saturday.
