About Historic Burke Foundation
Join Us in Preserving History
Whether you become a member, make a donation, volunteer your time, or attend one of our events, you are helping preserve Burke County's legacy for generations to come. Preserve the past. Inspire the future. Support Historic Burke Foundation today.
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Become a yearly renewing OR monthly sustaining member with access to special event, venue rental, and gift shop discounts.
Preserving Burke County's Past. Inspiring Its Future.
Every historic building, landmark, and cemetery tells a story. They connect us to the people who built our communities, defended our freedoms, and shaped the place we call home. Without preservation, these stories—and the places that tell them—can be lost forever.
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Since 1982, Historic Burke Foundation (HBF) has been dedicated to preserving Burke County's historic places and sharing their stories through education, stewardship, and community engagement. Founded by local citizens who recognized the importance of protecting our heritage, HBF continues that mission today by caring for some of Burke County's most treasured historic sites while providing meaningful educational experiences for residents and visitors alike.
What We Do
Historic Burke Foundation brings Burke County's history to life through preservation, education, and community engagement. Every program, tour, and event helps connect people with the stories and places that have shaped our region.
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Preserving Historic Landmarks
Historic Burke Foundation serves as the steward of the Historic Burke County Courthouse and owns and cares for the Captain Charles McDowell Jr. House at Quaker Meadows, Quaker Meadows Cemetery, and the Erwin Family Cemetery at Belvidere. Through ongoing preservation, maintenance, and advocacy, we protect these irreplaceable landmarks so they can continue to educate, inspire, and connect future generations with Burke County's rich history.
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Guided Tours
Visitors can explore Burke County's historic properties through guided tours that highlight Revolutionary War history, local architecture, influential families, and the people who helped shape our community.
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Museum Exhibits
The Heritage Museum, located within the Historic Burke County Courthouse, and exhibits at the McDowell House showcase artifacts, documents, and stories that preserve Burke County's rich cultural heritage.
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Educational Programs
Historic Burke Foundation offers educational experiences for schools, civic organizations, and the community, inspiring lifelong learning through local history.
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Revolutionary War Days
Each year, we commemorate the September 30, 1780 gathering of the Overmountain Men at Quaker Meadows before their march to the pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain. This signature event honors Burke County's vital role in America's fight for independence.
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Community Programs & Annual Meeting
From lectures and special events to our Annual Meeting, Historic Burke Foundation brings together residents, historians, educators, and preservation advocates to celebrate and protect our shared heritage.
Why Preservation Matters
Historic preservation is about far more than protecting old buildings. It safeguards the stories, traditions, and values that define our community.
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Historic sites help us understand where we've come from, honor those who came before us, and inspire future generations to appreciate the importance of civic engagement, leadership, and service.
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Every restored structure, preserved artifact, and educational program helps ensure that Burke County's remarkable history remains accessible for generations to come.
Your Support Makes Preservation Possible
Historic Burke Foundation depends on the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and volunteers who believe our history deserves to be preserved.
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Your contributions help us:
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Preserve and maintain historic properties
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Protect artifacts and archival collections
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Develop educational programs for students and families
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Present exhibits, lectures, and community events
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Expand public access to Burke County's history
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Preserve Revolutionary War sites in advance of America's 250th anniversary
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Every donation, large or small, helps ensure that these historic places remain vibrant educational resources for future generations.
When you support Historic Burke Foundation, you are investing in more than buildings. You are investing in education, tourism, community pride, and the preservation of Burke County's unique identity.
Together, we can protect the places that tell our story.
A Community Investment
A Registered 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
Historic Burke Foundation, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation and education. Contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law and directly support our mission of preserving Burke County's historic resources and sharing their stories with the public.
