The Joel Lane Museum House, built in 1769, was the home of Colonel Joel Lane—known as the ‘Father of Wake County’ and the ‘Father of Raleigh’—and his family. Filled with 18th-century artifacts and furnishings, this beautiful example of mid-Atlantic Georgian architecture celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2019 and offers guests the chance to visit the very place where the decision to create North Carolina’s capital city of Raleigh was made.

Costumed interpreters guide visitors through the home and gardens, painting a vivid picture of America’s history by providing a rich understanding of 18th-century North Carolina and the struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of those who lived there, with particular emphasis on the life and times of Colonel Joel Lane, his family, and enslaved workers.

Tours are offered on Wednesday through Saturday, but only on Saturdays in January and February. Please call to check the hours before visiting.