If you’re a history buff, North Carolina is a great place to live or visit. With sites like the CSS Neuse Interpretive Center, the North Carolina Transportation Museum, Roanoke Island Festival Park, and the James K. Polk State Historic Site, you can explore so many eras of American history. But there’s a lesser-known landmark you may not have visited before right here in our backyard. If you’re looking for a new place to explore, check out Harmony Hall right here in Kinston.
About Harmony Hall
Harmony Hall was built in 1772 and is the most historically significant house in Kinston, North Carolina. It serves as the home of the Lenoir County Historical Association. You can find Harmony Hall at 109 East King Street, Kinston.
Harmony Hall was originally built by Jesse and Elizabeth Heritage Cobb in 1772. During the American Revolution, the building included the offices of Secretary of State James Glasgow. That meant that high-level meetings, such as those of the State Board of War, took place in the building. Harmony Hall was owned by Richard Caswell, who was the first governor of North Carolina after the U.S. gained independence from Great Britain.
After the Revolution, Harmony Hall continued to serve important purposes for North Carolinians. It served as a Civil War hospital, a church annex, a public library, and a women’s club meeting place throughout the years.
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Remodeling and Restorations
The house went through major remodeling in 1790 and later in 1835. A restoration to preserve this historical site was completed in 1984. The great room of the current home is actually the size that the full original house was in 1772. Throughout the years, wings and rooms were added on to increase the footprint of the building.
If you can’t make it to Harmony Hall, you can still take a virtual tour of the home. Notable features include a ladies parlor with 19th-century Victorian furnishings, the East wing’s dining room, the study, a children’s bedroom, the master bedroom, and a museum that houses a large collection of dolls.
Not only can you tour Harmony Hall, you can also rent it out to hosts events like weddings, showers, parties, and more. There are also ticketed events open to the public from time to time. Be sure to keep an eye on the Harmony Hall Facebook page for the latest updates.
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