Fireside History Series

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Fireside History Series Opens January 9

Dallas, NC – For more than 100 years, Gaston County has been known as a leader in the textile industry. But what was Gaston County like before it became synonymous with cotton yarn spinning?

Find out when the Gaston County Museum of Art & History presents the first of three discussions in the Fireside History Series, coming up Thursday, January 9, from 6:00-7:30pm at the Museum.

Local historian and Museum staff member, Kent Hester, will present “Before We Were Gaston County,” a fascinating look at the region before it became Gaston County in 1846 and the industrial and textile revolutions changed the landscape of the South.

Guests will enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar with signature cocktails as Mr. Hester discusses the early days of the county’s history, from the Catawba Nation to the first European settlers and the growth of Gaston. Complimentary cocktails will be available for Museum members.

“We are excited to present this evening history series to our members and guests. There are so many aspects of Gaston County history to explore, and what better way than in an intimate fireside setting with some of our most distinguished local historians,” says Alexandrea Pizza, the Museum’s executive director.

“We invite adults and older teens to join us for this enlightening discussion about the area we call home,” she says.

Admission is free, but reservations are required. RSVP to Casey Landolf at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Seating is limited.

The series continues Thursday, February 13 and Thursday, March 13 with talks on World War II and area lands conservancy.

Admission to the Museum is free. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 10:00am-5:00pm and Saturday 11:00am – 4:00pm. For more information about the Museum, visit www.gastoncountymuseum.org.