The Rural Life Museum will reopen its doors after extensive renovations in September of 2010 to host the Smithsonian exhibit, sponsored by the North Carolina Humanities Council, entitled “New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music.”

Location: Montague Building, (rock building on the quad)

Contact: Karen Paar (828) 689-1262 or Peggy Harmon, (828) 689-1394

Hearth inside Rural Life Museum

The Rural Life Museum is a significant component of the college's cultural and educational services. Its resources, collections, and programs are developed and administered in support of the various disciplines of the academic program and of community services through tours, workshops, lectures, and internships.

The museum facilitates the collection, preservation, exhibition and interpretation of rural life artifacts relevant to the history and culture of the Southern Appalachian region. Through its exhibits and educational program the museum assists students, faculty members, and other patrons in understanding rural heritage.