Thomasville History Center
The Thomasville History Center is a private non-profit community organization that connects the Red Hills’ past with its present to inspire and enrich current and future generations.
Announcements & Upcoming Events
🌀 WEATHER CLOSURE
Thomasville History Center & Lapham-Patterson House | October 10, 2026
The Thomasville History Center and Lapham-Patterson House will be closed Saturday, October 10, as a precaution due to Hurricane Isaias. Both sites will reopen Monday, October 12, during regular hours. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Stay safe!
Halloween in the Historic Neighborhood
Thomasville History Center | October 31, 2026
Join us for a spooktacular evening at the Thomasville History Center’s annual Halloween in the Historic Neighborhood on Saturday, October 31, from 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a fun, safe evening of trick-or-treating on the History Center’s historic grounds! Enjoy candy, costumes, and family-friendly Halloween activities throughout our campus.
This year’s community partners include the Jack Hadley Black History Museum, Pebble Hill Plantation, Thomasville Center for the Arts, Thomasville Landmarks, Thomas County Public Libraries, TL Spence Veterans Museum, Kiwanis of Thomasville, Rotary Club of Thomasville, and The Bookshelf, which will host special Spooky Story Times at 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. The Ice Cream Girl will also be on site with sweet treats available for purchase.
Special thanks to Bob & Jeff’s IGA for once again generously providing oranges for our trick-or-treaters!
Admission is free, and no registration is required. Put on your favorite costume and join us for a frightfully fun Halloween tradition!
34th Annual Pilau Dinner
The Thomasville History Center continues this tradition with its 34th Annual Pilau Dinner on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Each $12 plate includes pilau, coleslaw, pickles, crackers, and dessert, and may be enjoyed on the History Center grounds or picked up to go from our convenient drive-thru pickup line.
Guests who stay on campus are invited to enjoy a relaxed evening beneath the oaks with live acoustic music by Blue Burden, a cash bar provided by Hubs and Hops, and a family-friendly hangout area on the History Center grounds.
Each plate supports the History Center’s ongoing work to preserve the historic places, collections, and stories that define Thomasville and the Red Hills region.
Welcome to Thomasville History Center
Discover why Thomasville is a place apart; visit our three-acre campus and immerse yourself in Thomas County’s history as you explore our seven historic structures. Ask us about our tours and group rates. You can get involved by becoming a member or attending one or all of our upcoming events happening at the History Center.
7 Historic Buildings to Explore
Learn With us
Learning experiences with the History Center don‘t end at the gallery doors. Expand your skills and follow your curiosity as we learn from the history, people, and stories of the Red Hills region.
View Our Collections & Archives
The collections of the History Center are available to members and to the general public.
Don’t miss the opportunity to find distinctive keepsakes at our museum’s exclusive gift shop, The Lobby at the Thomasville History Center – your gateway to a historical shopping experience.
Shop Hours
Monday – Saturday
10am – 4pm
Lapham-Patterson House
The whimsical 6,000 square-foot house is a showcase for the progressive eccentricities of Lapham, his architect Tudor Rommerdal, and the late Victorian era in general.
About the Tour
Guests will receive a guided tour of all three floors (mobility permitting) of the Lapham-Patterson House and learn about the residents, architecture, and technology of the 1885 Resort Era “cottage.”
Become A Member
Since 1952, the Thomasville History Center has worked to collect, preserve, and share the stories of Thomasville, Thomas County, and the Red Hills region. By becoming a member, you help support historic preservation, educational programs, and the stewardship of the collections, places, and stories that connect our community to its past and inspire future generations.
The History Center Blog
Recipes from the Vault: Blueberry Yum Yum
Every so often, the museum receives a donation that includes a cookbook or recipe card. Sometimes the recipes are familiar comfort foods still served on many Thomas County tables. Others… well, let’s just say some recipes are best left in […]
