The Morton Museum of Collierville History is a vibrant cultural hub located in the heart of Collierville, Tennessee. Housed in a beautifully restored 1873 Gothic Revival church building, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s rich heritage. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret Collierville’s dynamic history, making the past tangible, relevant, and meaningful for today’s diverse community and for generations to come.
Museum Highlights
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Permanent & Temporary Exhibitions: The museum features both permanent and changing exhibitions that engage visitors of all ages. Notable past exhibitions include “Collierville’s Soil Soldiers,” “Baseball! Celebrating a Community Pastime,” and “Beebe & Clegg: Their Enduring Photographic Legacy.”
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Community Art Gallery: The museum hosts a community art gallery that showcases works from local artists, reflecting the town’s artistic heritage.
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Historic Architecture: The building itself is a historic landmark, originally serving as the Collierville Christian Church from 1873 until 1992. The structure features a one-story frame vernacular Gothic Revival design with a two-story corner tower and steeple, which housed the largest bell in Shelby County, weighing 800 pounds.
Current & Upcoming Exhibitions
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Brushstrokes of Home: Tyler Guthrie’s Collierville (April 22 – July 5, 2025): This exhibition showcases the charm and history of Collierville through the artwork of local artist Tyler Guthrie, offering a nostalgic view of the town’s past.
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100 Years in the Making: Collierville’s 1970 Centennial Celebrations (July 15 – September 6, 2025): Relive the excitement of Collierville’s 1970 Centennial Celebration through photographs, artifacts, and stories, highlighting the grand festivities that marked 100 years of the town’s history.
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Riding Nostalgia: The Wonder Horse’s Journey from Wood to Icon (September 16 – November 22, 2025): Explore the history of the Wonder Horse rocking toy, from its local manufacturing roots to its role in shaping Collierville as a center of trade.
Visitor Information
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Address: 196 N. Main Street, Collierville, TN 38017
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Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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Admission: Free
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Phone: (901) 457-2650
Additional Highlights
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Event Space: The museum offers event rentals, making it a unique venue for weddings, receptions, and other special occasions.
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Community Engagement: The museum hosts various programs, workshops, and events throughout the year, fostering community involvement and education.
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Recognition: The museum has received multiple Awards of Excellence from the Tennessee Association of Museums for its exhibitions and educational programs.
A visit to the Morton Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of Collierville, experience its cultural richness, and appreciate the beautiful architecture of a historic building. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply curious about the town’s past, the museum provides an engaging and informative experience for all.