
The Wayne County Historical Society, which oversees the Wayne County Museum, has several history-oriented happenings planned for September, with a unique Victorian funeral event coming to Goldsboro, North Carolina in October 2019.
The Mission of the historical society is: “To discover, preserve, document, display, and disseminate historical knowledge and artifacts of Wayne County. Wayne County Museum also seeks to increase public awareness of the heritage of Wayne County and its environs through exhibits, events, and traditional and digital information sources.”
These exhibits and events are open to the public. While Membership in the Wayne County Historical Society is not required, it is encouraged. Annual membership fees start with a basic/individual rate of $35 or family membership is $50 per year. See more on the Museum’s website membership page, which includes descriptions of benefits.
New Exhibit Unveiling
Saturday, September 7, 2019 @ 10am
The public is invited to the grand opening of a new exhibit “Enduring Elegance; the long and glamorous history of the Miss Goldsboro Pageant.”
The current Miss Goldsboro, Ms. Isabella Gaines, and several former Miss Goldsboros will be on-hand for this exciting event to meet and greet our visitors. See crowns, gowns, costumes, and regalia from the 87 year history of this beloved local tradition. There will be a fun dress-up area for children.
View photos and videos of past pageants and their elegant participants. Learn how this scholarship contest has evolved over the years and has managed to stay relevant to our community for almost 90 years.
The exhibit is located at the Wayne County Museum, 116 N William Street, Goldsboro, North Carolina.
This exhibit will be open daily during regular Museum hours through the end of the year.
Downtown History Walk
Saturday, September 14, 2019 @ 10am
The tour is guided by our museum director and will cover the history of Goldsboro, NC and a look at various important historic sites and buildings downtown.
This free walking tour meets in the lobby of the Museum (116 N William Street, Goldsboro, NC) at 10am and lasts for about an hour.
Participants are reminded to wear comfortable, walking shoes. This event is “weather permitting” so follow the historical society’s museum page on Facebook for updates/changes.
“Tea with the Queen” Museum Fundraiser
Saturday, September 21, 2019 @ 2-4pm
All ages are invited to take part in Tea with the Queen and enjoy tea and fancy refreshments. Support the Museum with this glamorous and fun ticketed event.
Take tea in the USO Ballroom at the Museum (116 N William Street, Goldsboro, NC). During this elegant, private tea party, hosted by Master of Ceremonies (MC) Mr. Jim Hinnant, meet the current reigning Miss Goldsboro Isabella Gaines and her court. Former Miss Goldsboros and several upcoming pageant participants will be performing their talents on stage. Learn about what the pageant is like behind the scenes what to expect in the next 2019 scholarship contest from the ladies who have participated.
Adult tickets are $20 (includes 1 child’s ticket), and additional-child tickets available for $8 per child. A limited number of tickets are available in-advance and at the door.
For more information, call 919.734.5023.
Victorian Mourning Practices
Saturday, October 26, 2019 @ 6-9pm
Returning for its second year, the Victorian-era funeral event offers a night of good food, unique atmosphere, exhibits, and a bit of history. Attendees are encouraged to wear Victorian clothing, though it is not required.
As with the first funeral fundraiser held last year, this year’s event will be hosted in and around a Victorian-era home; location to be announced.
This is a ticketed event. Watch for details as October approaches.
(Ed. Note: To see last year’s Victorian Mourning Practices details, see our 2018 article.)
Source: Jennifer Kuykendall, Wayne County Museum