On display through 2006

Original city plan from 1792. (Courtesy Office of Archives & History, Raleigh.)

When we look around Raleigh today, we see a busy city, one active in government, business, education and culture. The population continues to increase, bringing new residents from around the world. As the state capital, Raleigh is an important city for all of North Carolina. The Raleigh we live in today is a true city of the 21st Century, a city with a national reputation and a brilliant future.

19th century watercolor painting by Jacob Marling of the original 1794 Statehouse. (Courtesy Office of Archives & History, Raleigh.)

Yet, when the area now known as Raleigh was chosen in 1792 as the site for a new state capital, the city of Raleigh didn't even exist. This exhibit explores the history of Raleigh, how the city was founded and how the city has changed dramatically over the years. The events and artifacts presented in this exhibit represent only a sampling of what Raleigh has experienced over the years. We hope to expand this story with the help of you, our visitor. Share with us your memories of Raleigh, your artifacts of our city's past and help us to present the complete story of our city.