Briggs Hardware Building

The Briggs Hardware Building, constructed in 1874 in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, is a historic four-story structure that was once the tallest building in the city. Originally built to house a family-owned hardware store, it is now home to the City of Raleigh Museum. The building showcases mid-to-late 19th-century architectural styles, featuring a striking red brick facade and intricate design elements. A local legend claims that the owner, Thomas Briggs, buried Confederate money before the Civil War and used it to finance the building's construction. Over the years, the building has served various purposes, including housing the city's first YMCA and the Raleigh Little Theater. Today, it stands as a testament to Raleigh's rich history and preservation efforts.