The Birthplace of North Carolina’s Capital

Visit the Revolutionary world of early North Carolina

Explore the beginnings of Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, and the United States—from the colonial era, through the Revolutionary War, into the first years of a new nation. Discover history as it’s rarely taught: compelling human stories, told with accuracy and compassion by costumed docents who personalize each tour for our guests.

All tours are guided. The museum is not open to individual walkthrough.

Tours begin in the Visitors Center at 160 South Saint Mary’s Street, Raleigh, NC 27603.

Our Mission

To bring American history to life by providing a rich understanding of regional North Carolina history and the struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of all those who lived in Piedmont North Carolina in the 18th century, with particular emphasis on the life and times of Colonel Joel Lane, his family, and the 43 people enslaved on his plantation.

Accessibility

The Visitors Center and Museum Store are accessible by a ramp.

The Lane Museum House and the “Kitchen” building can only be entered by climbing about 5 steps. The second floor of the Lane house can only be reached by climbing a set of about 20 stairs.

With advanced reservations, a guided virtual tour is available for those who cannot enter the inaccessible buildings. Strollers are prohibited in the museum buildings. Infants and young toddlers must be carried. Only service animals are allowed inside the historic buildings.