I grew up in the charming coastal town of Edenton, North Carolina, where history seemed to whisper from every street corner. My family’s roots stretch back nearly 350 years in that area, grounding me in a deep sense of connection to the past. When we moved to the Hickory area a few years ago, it took some time for me to find that same kind of bond with my new surroundings. That’s why it was so special when my oldest son and I attended the Victorian Christmas this past Saturday at the Harper House—it felt like stepping into a piece of history right here in our new home.
Built in 1887 by Daniel Webster Shuler, a Michigan native and founder of Hickory’s first bank, the Harper House was home to seven families before being acquired by the Harper family in 1923. The Harper family resided there longer than any other, until December 21, 2000, when Finley Gwyn Harper, Jr.’s daughters—generously facilitated its transfer to the Hickory Arts and Cultural Center (HACC). Today, it stands as a testament to both the family’s legacy and the community’s commitment to preserving local history.
Recognized by the North Carolina Department of Archives and History for its “finest Queen Anne interior styling in the entire state,” the Harper House is a true architectural gem. Alongside it stands the Bonniwell-Lyerly House, a striking example of Craftsman design, and where our journey started on Saturday night.
As we entered, we were greeted by a delightful spread of treats—savory dips, sweets, and even a delicious Twelfth Night cake. While we waited for the tours to begin, we indulged in the festive atmosphere. If you happened to attend that evening, you might have spotted us—my oldest son stood out in his charming Victorian-inspired attire.
As we made our way to the Harper House, it was stunningly adorned for the holidays, with each room decorated by a different person or organization. Every detail reflected the creativity and care of its decorator. At the start of the tour, we were handed tickets to vote for our favorite room—a nearly impossible task given how beautifully each space was transformed for the season.
My favorite was the elegantly decorated little nook (pictured below), which I couldn’t help but imagine as my own cozy retreat for relaxation. My son, on the other hand, was captivated by the attic space—once a speakeasy during the Prohibition era—its history and charm sparking his imagination in hopes of turning it into his personal bedroom one day.
One particularly fascinating detail is the attic wall, which is lined with silhouettes of the Harper family and their guests from the Prohibition era. Even more exciting, many of these names have recently been identified, adding a personal touch to this piece of history!
While I took an embarrassingly large number of photos, I did not realize until this morning that one of my darling children had interfered with the photo settings on my phone, so, sadly, most of the photos came out a little lacking.
The Harper House & Hickory History Center is truly a treasure, offering a glimpse into the rich history and architectural beauty of our area. Whether you’re visiting during the holidays to experience its festive charm or exploring its timeless elegance and historical significance any time of year, the Harper House promises a memorable experience. From the beautifully preserved Queen Anne details to the fascinating stories woven into its walls, this historic gem is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
Don’t miss the chance to step back in time and discover the vibrant heritage that makes Hickory so unique!