Levine Museum

Excited for Pride? We are too! 🌈 Levine Museum will be at the Charlotte Pride Festival this weekend. Swing by to say hi and celebrate with us! #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #charlottepride #lgbtqhistory

Learn more at museumofthenewsouth.org. #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #internationalyouthday #backtoschool #youthleadership

As the new school year begins, Levine Museum is launching programs that support educators, inspire students, and create opportunities for youth to grow as changemakers.

This International Youth Day, we’re celebrating the next generation of leaders, and the power of learning spaces that center history, dialogue, and connection.

Applications close Aug. 29: museumofthenewsouth.org/events/catalys… #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #catalystfellowship #studentleaders #civicengagement

You’ll visit key Civil Rights landmarks, design your own project, and connect with students across five partner schools — all while developing the kind of leadership that lasts.

This isn’t your average fellowship — it’s a chance to lead with intention. The Catalyst Fellowship is a yearlong, paid opportunity for college students in Charlotte who care about justice, storytelling, and building community.

What started as a catering company grew into one of Uptown’s most beloved Black-owned restaurants — and a space where generations gather to feel at home. #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #blackbusinessmonth #mertsheartandsoul #charlotteeats

Founded in 1998 by James and Renee’ Bazzelle, Mert’s is a Queen City staple known for its Low Country and Gullah-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits, Charleston red rice, and that famous mac and cheese.

This Black Business Month, we’re celebrating local institutions like Mert’s that keep history alive, one plate at a time. For nearly three decades, Mert’s Heart & Soul has been serving up more than just food — it’s been serving culture, community, and tradition.

Discover how this Charlotte-born brand became a national staple in our 50 Places in Charlotte digital project: museumofthenewsouth.org/digital/first-… #levinemuseum #charlottehistory #familydollar #50placesincharlotte #entrepreneurshiphistory

The first Family Dollar store opened in Charlotte in 1959 with a simple promise: no item more than $2. Founder Leon Levine believed everyone deserved access to affordable goods, and that belief sparked a retail revolution.

The full series lives in Levine Museum’s permanent collection, preserving everyday moments that tell a bigger story about identity, memory, and place. #levinemuseum #charlottehistory #byronbaldwin #museumcollection

Known for its iconic signage and neighborhood roots, Ho-Toy was one of many small businesses that shaped the character of east Charlotte.

This photo of Ho-Toy Restaurant, taken by Byron Baldwin around 1988, is part of his Central Avenue series -- a powerful visual record of a changing city.

Register now: museumofthenewsouth.org/schools/profes… #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #educationworkshop #classroomleadership

Educators and administrators from any subject or grade level are invited to learn how to create spaces for respectful, honest dialogue — no matter the topic. 🗓️ Aug. 8, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 📍 Ascend Nonprofit Solutions 601 East 5th Street #510 Charlotte, NC 28202

Want to feel more prepared to handle hard conversations in your school? Our upcoming professional development session is designed to help you do just that.

Their stories — and so many more — are featured in our 50 Places in Charlotte digital project: museumofthenewsouth.org/digital/50-pla… #levinemuseum #lmns #charlottenc #clt #blackbusinessmonth #blackcharlotte #50placesincharlotte

Explore stories like the Mecklenburg Investment Company, the first office building in Charlotte built by and for Black professionals, and revisit the legacy of Excelsior Club, once a hub for politics, music, and connection.

August is Black Business Month — a time to recognize the entrepreneurs, visionaries, and spaces that have powered Charlotte’s Black communities for generations.