top of page

Mary Barnes hand-sewed this “Martha’s Choice”-pattern quilt ca. 1875-1900.

Mary Barnes hand-sewed this “Martha’s Choice”-pattern quilt ca. 1875-1900.

Ms. Barnes lived in Wilson County, where she was once enslaved.

Her family loved and used the quilt during the 19th and 20th centuries, passing it down through the generations.
They donated it to the NC Museum Of History ca. 1978.

Home
About
Meet The Curators
The G. C. and Frances Hawley Museum is an online clearinghouse for the often hidden history and culture of Black people in and from North Carolina. We also host reference materials on Black people in the United States and internationally.

We have provided a place, through this Museum, where you can find information from many sources such as web-based content; open education resources (OER); print, video, and digital media; academic journals and books; documentary films; original materials including oral interviews and more importantly, what our readers share with us.

Your feedback is important to us and helps us provide as much information as possible about the rich history, heritage, and culture of Black people – especially in North Carolina.
Co-Creators and Founders

L.D. Edwards

Dr. Valerie Ann Johnson
"People are underrepresented because that's a consequence of being historically excluded which is the cause"

L.D. Edwards
Collections
Collections
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Fashion & Fabrics
Military
Education & Educators
Enslavement, Emancipation & Freedom
Spirituality
Black Foodways
Black Culture Keepers
Organizations, Clubs & Black Philanthropy
Activism, Civil Rights, Law, Politics & Social Justice
Business Industry, Science & Research
Black Farmers, Gardeners & Sharecroppers
Places & Spaces
Correcting Identities
Health, Wellness, & Medical
Family Histories
North Carolina Native Americans
Library
The G.C. and Frances Hawley Library
The G.C. and Frances Hawley Museum is a place dedicated to the preservation of North Carolina's African-American history and culture. We are proud to have an extensive library of books and artifacts that will both educate and empower our visitors.

In this Gallery, we are posting books and documentaries that have been written about African Americans from North Carolina, We are also including resources about the lives of African Americans who are not native to NC. Resources to help our community in your quest to learn about African American Experiences in NC, in America, and around the world.
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
1/1
Enter Here
GCAFH Merchandise
GCAFH Merchandise
Coming Soon!
This collection of featured products is sure to make a statement and represent the G.C. and Francis Hawley Museum. Our hoodie is made from high-quality cotton with a unique black-and-white print on the front and back. Our mug is also decorated with the same design, perfect for any hot beverage. Lastly, our hat has a classic look and is adjustable to fit any head size. Get all of these items today and show your support for the G.C. and Francis Hawley Museum.
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon!
Member Collections
Describe your image
Describe your image
1/5
Member Collections
Story and photos shared by K.L. Mercer, a descendant of the Marrow family from the Vance and Granville County areas. She became immersed in her family's history, story, twists, and turns when she moved to North Carolina in 2013. She and her family purchased a property in the area and later found out that the site was part of the Marrow Plantation, where her ancestors had been enslaved.

Today, the family celebrates doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses, military service members, university presidents and so many more accomplishments by this humble, hardworking local family.
Videos
Videos
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of North Carolina with all your senses. We invite you to explore the history of North Carolina through our vintage collection of videos that highlight the past.
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
press to zoom
1/1
To view click here
Search
Donate/Stay in Touch
We are pleased to hear from visitors and welcome any questions or comments. To get in touch, please use the contact form or send us an email at irememberourhistory.com We look forward to hearing from you.
Contact Us
First name
Last name
Email
Write a message
Thanks for submitting!
Thanks For Your Support!
The G.C. and Frances Hawley Museum appreciates donations of any size. Donations help us to continue our mission of preserving and sharing our collections and educational programs. To make a donation, please click the "Donate Now" button, or contact us at irememberourhistory.com. If you have any questions about making a donation, please feel free to contact us. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and helps ensure that the Museum remains a vibrant part of the community. We are always grateful for your generosity and support. Thank you for helping us make a difference.
3D Galleries
Untitled