Not every history museum is boring. In fact, the Augusta Museum of History in Augusta, Georgia has one of the largest collections in the Central Savannah River Area. It was founded in 1937 by some forward-thinking locals and has since curated an exhibit of the community’s history. And there is so much more on display that visitors never get to see, brought in by people every year.
What to See at the Augusta Museum of History
One of the first exhibits you should see is “Augusta’s Story,” which describes the city’s rise from a Native American settlement to an important port hub. It features displays on the Civil War and Reconstruction. Here you’ll find pieces like a 1930s fire engine and 1914 steam locomotive that the museum uses to replicate The Polar Express during the holidays.
It wouldn’t be a museum in Augusta without an exhibit on golf. “Celebrating a Grand Tradition, the Sport of Golf” details the history of the famous Augusta National club, the Masters’ tournament, and the golfers who competed there like Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus. It’s also the only place in the world outside of Augusta National that you can see a green jacket.
The “Local Legends” exhibit focuses on the famous Augustans that have gone on to become governors, generals, and astronauts. There are additional exhibits on the medical tradition in Augusta and military hero Jimmie Dyess.
But perhaps the best reason to visit the Augusta Museum of History is to see the exhibit devoted to James Brown, known as the Godfather of Soul. Brown was born nearby and lived most of his life in Augusta. Interactive kiosks and displays play his music and feature clothing and items from his house. It holds one of his Grammy awards and has grown since it opened in 1996, especially since his death in 2006.
Tips for Visiting the Augusta Museum of History
The Augusta Museum of History is located at 560 Reynolds Street, Augusta, Georgia 30904. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $2 for children and you can also visit the Ezekiel Harris House, also owned by the museum, for an additional fee. The museum is open Thursday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. Parking is available at the visitor’s center and on the street.
Where to Eat Near the Augusta Museum of History
The Augusta Museum of History is convenient to some of the city’s best restaurants. Nacho Mama’s is a casual Mexican restaurant with burritos, nachos, tacos, and quesadillas.
Edgar’s Above Broad is a tapas restaurant with charcuterie, hummus, and sliders. Enjoy the lawn games like the putting green and bocce.
Where to Stay Near the Augusta Museum of History
Ramada by Wyndham Augusta Downtown Hotel & Conference Center is the closest hotel to the museum and has an indoor pool and free WiFi. A short walk down the Riverwalk is the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, which has large guest rooms, a bar and restaurant, and an airport shuttle. The Partridge Inn (review here) is a historic hotel within driving distance that overlooks the city.
PIN IT
I have a 1934 hand drawing portait of the first master tournament with the player n courese played trying to find a buyer for it its in excellent condition with 2 signatures on it who do I need to contact about this my numbers 850-333-3435y name is penny
Hi Penny,
I recommend contacting the museum directly to see if they’re interested. I know they have a large selection of pieces not on display, but might be.