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Historic Resources

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1. Where do I start with my genealogy research?

The Heritage Research Center at the High Point Public Library can get you started with your local family research. Click here for more information, or contact them directly at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov.

2. How did High Point get its name?

The highest point surveyed along any railway is designated as the “high point.” In determining the least expensive-to-build route for the Greensboro to Lexington leg of the North Carolina Railroad in 1850, the survey crew crossed the Fayetteville and Western Plank Road and noted that the highest point along the whole survey was where the railroad line crossed the plank road - in this case, 943 feet above sea level. By 1859 when the town was chartered, "High Point" was the preferred name for the community growing up around the high point at the crossroads of the new North Carolina Railroad and the old Fayetteville and Western Plank Road.

3. What is the National Register?

The National Register of Historic Places is a federal program administered by the National Park Service that is primarily an honor. There is no obligation to maintain or alter a property unless federal funding is used or if the owner receives a special benefit, such as a grant or tax credit. For more information contact the NC Historic Preservation Office.

4. How can I learn more about the city's historic markers?

The historic markers web page has information about the city’s historic markers, as well as the state’s highway historical marker program. For more information contact the High Point Planning & Development Department at (336) 883-3328. 

5. What is a local historic district?

A type of overlay zoning that applies to entire neighborhoods or areas that include multiple historic properties. It provides controls on the appearance of existing and proposed buildings and sites to help maintain the special character of the district. It has no effect on local property taxes.

6. What is a local landmark property?

A designation by both Guilford County and High Point City Council to preserve and protect individual buildings, structures, sites, areas, or objects judged to have historical, architectural, archaeological, or cultural value. Once recognized, changes can only be made after approval by the Guilford County Historic Preservation Commission. Owners are eligible for an annual 50% property tax deferral as long as the property's important historic features are maintained.

7. What are the requirements of local designation?

Owners of local landmarks and of property in local historic districts are required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the relevant preservation commission before making significant changes or additions, beginning new construction, or demolishing or relocating a building. This ensures work is done according to adopted design guidelines and maintains the special character of the district or landmark.

8. How can I find a family member's birth, marriage, or death information?

The Heritage Research Center at the High Point Public Library can help you locate these vital records. Click here to go to the HRC website, or contact them directly at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov

9. How can I get a copy of a family member's obituary?

Deaths and obituaries from The High Point Enterprise have been indexed by the Heritage Research Center at the High Point Library. For more information please contact HRC staff directly at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov

10. How can I research my African-American family heritage?

The Heritage Research Center at the High Point Public Library can help you get started with African-American genealogy and research. For more information, see this beginner's guide or contact the HRC at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov

11. How do I get military service records for me or a relative?

Military discharge records recorded in Guilford County are available through the Guilford County Register of Deeds Office by contacting the vital records staff at (336) 641-7556. The Heritage Research Center at the High Point Public Library has information to get you started on researching military records or contact HRC staff directly at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov

12. How do I find tax information on a High Point property?

Tax information is available through the Guilford County Register of Deeds Office or to learn how to access this information contact the Heritage Research Center at the High Point Public Library at (336) 883-3637 or by email at: ncroom@highpointnc.gov 

13. When is the High Point Museum open?

The High Point Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed Mondays and major holidays. The buildings of the Historical Park are open on Saturdays. June through August the Museum and Historical Park are also open on Sundays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

14. What is the oldest building in High Point?

The oldest building in High Point is the 1786 John Haley House, located at the High Point Museum on the corner of East Lexington Avenue and McGuinn Drive. Learn more about John Haley and the historic house here.

15. Where would I find a photograph of a High Point historic home or building, or of a person or family member who lived in High Point?

The High Point Museum has historical photographs of some buildings, homes, streets, neighborhoods, businesses, and people. You can search the on-line collection database or contact the museum directly at (336) 885-1859 or by using the museum's online contact form.

16. How can I get more information on a piece of furniture I have which was made by a company in High Point?

Please contact the High Point Museum at (336) 885-1859 or by filling out an online contact form. It will be helpful if you can provide a photograph of the piece as well as any labels or other manufacturer marks. The Museum does not appraise or value objects, but can provide a list of area appraisers.

17. How do I make a historic marker request?

Requests should be made with the High Point Planning and Development Department and outline in writing how the site, event or individual has contributed to the history and culture of High Point. All marker requests should propose a marker title and inscription and include copies of primary resources to allow the Historic Preservation Commission to authenticate or verify the historical information. See the Historic Marker Policy or contact the Planning & Development Dept. at (336) 883-3328 for more information.