Follow the story of the Augusta region, from the early Native American settlements to present day, through comprehensive exhibits covering 12,000 years of history.
The Augusta Museum of History is devoted to telling the story of the region through an impressive array of engaging exhibits. Trace the 12,000-year story of Augusta, learning about everything from early Native American inhabitants to the civil rights movement and beyond.
The museum was founded in 1937 with the goal of preserving and presenting local area history. Start on the ground floor at Augusta’s Story, a permanent exhibition that has won awards for the museum.
Survey a full-scale diorama of Stallings Island, where some of North America’s oldest known pottery was uncovered. See Native American and antebellum artifacts and learn about the region’s role in the Civil War, the civil rights movement and World War II. Astronaut Susan Still Kilrain and other modern figures from Augusta are also remembered here.
Continue on to the Transportation Corridor to see various old vehicles, including a fire engine, a steam locomotive and a trolley. The final first floor exhibit, Protect and Serve, is dedicated to the work of the local police and firefighting services.
Venture up to the second floor to browse an exhibit on golf and displays focusing on local legends, such as entertainers Brenda Lee and James Brown as well as athletes and authors. Wander around this floor to find a unique collection of bottles, a display chronicling the development of the important Georgia Railroad and Banking Company, an exhibit on the influence of a local radio station, military uniforms and memorabilia and more.
Visit the museum shop to purchase Augusta-related merchandise, such as magnets, key rings, blankets, T-shirts and ornaments, as well as books, CDs and DVDs. The museum also offers rental spaces for weddings and events and has an activity center for smaller events, such as luncheons or birthday parties. The museum also operates the 1797 Ezekiel Harris House, a Federal-style home with outstanding architectural detail.
The Augusta Museum of History opens Thursday through Sunday. An entrance fee is charged. Find the museum near the riverfront in central Augusta.