Black Heritage at Home: Black Furniture Maker Honored with Historic Site in Milton, North Carolina

We are thrilled to announce the unveiling of the Thomas Day State Historic Site, the newest addition to North Carolina’s state historic sites, situated in Milton, North Carolina, honoring the legacy of the influential Black furniture Maker.

During this special event, the descendants of Thomas Day, together with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, gathered for a ceremony and reception in honor of the Thomas Day State Historic Site.

Black Heritage at Home: Black Furniture Maker Honored with Historic Site in Milton, North Carolina

Thomas Day was a highly skilled and influential Black furniture maker whose legacy continues to inspire and resonate in the world of craftsmanship and design. Born in 1801 in Virginia, Day’s remarkable talent and dedication to his craft set him apart as a master artisan. He established a successful furniture workshop in Milton, North Carolina, where he created exquisite pieces that combined functionality with artistic flair.

Day’s legacy is characterized by his commitment to excellence, innovation, and social impact. Despite facing racial discrimination and challenges during his time, his work stood out for its quality and sophistication, earning him a reputation as one of the finest furniture makers of his era. Day’s designs often featured elegant curves, intricate details, and a blend of traditional and contemporary elements that set his work apart. His influence can be seen in the craftsmanship of furniture makers today, as his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artisans to push the boundaries of creativity and skill in the world of furniture design.

The Thomas Day State Historic Site, home to Union Tavern and the Milton State Bank, carries immense historical significance. These structures embody the legacy of Thomas Day, a skilled Black cabinetmaker, and we look forward to the site’s future development.

Keep an eye out for updates as the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources continues its efforts to furnish the Tavern to reflect Day’s era and convert the Milton State Bank into a visitor center, featuring a museum and gift shop.

Plan your visit and learn more here: https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/thomas-day-state-historic-site-future-site/history

Photos from: https://www.facebook.com/NorthCarolinaCulture/posts/pfbid02cYso1LseSyX7aHqDXvvAuw8s9VePEXg61D6TqBJ2VhJ11XEQ4Lqhyhvzy8dT3Wavl