Point of Interest
Museum of the Waxhaws
8215 Waxhaw Highway, Waxhaw, NC 28173
The Museum of the Waxhaws offers a compelling journey through the layered history of the Carolina backcountry. This living history museum in Union County chronicles life from the 1600s to the early 20th century, blending the narratives of Native American tribes, European settlers, African slaves and modern newcomers. It’s more than a museum — it’s a gateway to understanding the cultural encounters that shaped this region of NC.
Visitors can explore replicas of Waxhaw Indian dwellings, a preserved homestead and exhibits such as the mule-driven arrastra, which highlights the area's gold-mining history. Interactive experiences such as gold panning and herb gardens make history tangible and vibrant. The "Garden of the Waxhaws" invites you to walk paths once traveled by Native Americans and settlers alike.
