The History Enthusiast.

Visit a 1790’s Quaker Farm House with an important role in Civil War history. Tour temporary exhibits, and watch a short video on the history of Hillsborough and Orange County.

The Alexander Dickson House is also home to the town’s Visitors Center so while you’re here, grab some downtown maps and a self guided walking tour booklet.

After finishing up at the Dickson House, you’ll want to stroll past historic homes and commercial buildings a few blocks to the Orange County Historical Museum. The museum is home to an impressive collection of antiques and artifacts that tell Hillsborough and Orange County’s unique story.

Take a leisurely stroll downtown to see other historic sites, all within walking distance, like the Regulator Hanging Site, St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, and the Old Town Cemetery.

You can purchase a Historic Site Guide at the Visitors Center or CLICK HERE and use your mobile device to guide you.

After exploring some of Hillsborough’s history on your downtown stroll, find your way to the Burwell School, a 19th century school for girls, operated by the Rev. and Robert Burwell from 1837 – 1857. One of the most famous people to have lived here was Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly. She spent six years as an enslaved servant here. Years later she bought her freedom and became a successful dressmaker and confidante of Mary Todd Lincoln.

Tour a federal style plantation house with rich history and beautiful antique furniture. Then walk the grounds on the beautiful Poet’s Walk surrounding the property.

*Check tour times ahead of time*