Debate discusses proposed Civil War Museum in Fayetteville

The $65 million project would be built at the site of the old Fayetteville Arsenal. The area actually belonged to the federal government but was ordered burned to the ground by Gen. William Sherman after the Civil War broke out.

Some say the history at the spot makes it the perfect place for a Civil War Museum. Last year, several former governors and Fayetteville City leaders broke ground on the proposed project on Arsenal Avenue. It is going to be a state museum with the state budgeting about $46 million towards its construction.

Two years ago, the Fayetteville City Council voted unanimously to support the project by kicking in $7.5 million. Things have changed since the city originally signed onto the project. One of the biggest changes is the composition of the newly elected Fayetteville City Council. It now has four new African-American city council members.

“The climate in the country has changed concerning race relations,” said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin. “So we need to be very mindful of that.

“Since then, we have had the horrible incidents in Charlottesville. We had a number of issues concerning race that have happened. So we want to make sure that we are thoughtful in the process of what we want in the community and what the long-term impacts are.”

Those opposed to the project don't want the Civil War Center to become something that honors the Confederacy. Supporters said the center will provide an educational opportunity for everyone to see the roles both blacks and whites in North Carolina played during the Civil War.

The museum that will be built is supposed to become the centerpiece of conversation about North Carolina's role in the Civil War.