Charlotte's Storytellers: Uncovering the Queen City's Past & Present

Hi Aria! Get ready to become a Charlotte historian and cultural explorer! Today, you're going on an adventure to uncover some of the fascinating stories, people, and places that make Charlotte, NC, the unique "Queen City" it is. This isn't just about memorizing dates; it's about understanding the spirit of Charlotte and sharing its story in your own creative way!

Part 1: The Great Charlotte Quest (Approx. 60-90 minutes)

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to dive into Charlotte's past and present. Think like a detective looking for clues!

1. Choose Your Focus: Charlotte has so many stories! Pick one or two areas that spark your curiosity. Here are some ideas to get you started:
   • The Gold Rush Era: Did you know Charlotte was the center of America's first gold rush?
   • Textile Town to Banking Hub: How did Charlotte transform over time?
   • Voices of Change: Explore Charlotte's role in the Civil Rights Movement.
   • Neighborhood Narratives: Discover the unique history and culture of a specific Charlotte neighborhood (like Fourth Ward, NoDa, or Plaza Midwood).
   • Art & Soul: Investigate a famous Charlotte artist (like Romare Bearden) or an arts institution (like the Mint Museum).
   • Queen City Culture: What are some unique cultural traditions, foods, or festivals in Charlotte?
2. Become a Researcher: Use the internet (with adult supervision if needed) and any books you might have to gather information on your chosen topic(s).

   Helpful Online Starting Points:

   • Charlotte Mecklenburg Library - Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room (search their online resources)
   • The Charlotte Museum of History website
   • History South website
   • UNC Charlotte Special Collections and University Archives (online exhibits)

   As you research, jot down:

   • Key people, places, and events.
   • Interesting facts or stories that surprise you.
   • How your topic has shaped Charlotte today.
   • What makes this aspect of Charlotte special or culturally significant?

Part 2: Charlotte Creative Showcase (Approx. 90-120 minutes, can be spread out)

Now it's time to bring your discoveries to life! Instead of a test, you'll create something awesome to share what you've learned. Choose one project from the list below, or come up with your own idea (discuss it with your parent/teacher first!):

• Mini-Documentary Director: Create a short video (2-5 minutes) explaining your topic. You can narrate, use images you find (make sure they are okay to use or draw your own!), or even act out a scene.
• Historical Fiction Writer: Write a short story (1-2 pages) from the perspective of someone living through the historical event or time period you researched in Charlotte.
• Charlotte Tour Guide Map: Design a creative map (digital or hand-drawn) highlighting 3-5 key locations related to your research topic. Include short descriptions for each spot.
• "Then & Now" Art Project: Find an old photo of a place in Charlotte related to your topic. Recreate what it might look like now, or draw/paint the "then" scene and write about its significance.
• Cultural Infographic: Design an eye-catching infographic that visually presents the key information and cultural importance of your chosen topic. Use colors, symbols, and brief text.
• Charlotte Culinary Historian: Research a traditional Charlotte or North Carolina dish. If possible (and with help), try making it and then explain its history and connection to the area. (Take photos of your creation!)
• Build a Landmark: Use LEGOs, clay, or other craft materials to build a model of a significant Charlotte landmark related to your topic and explain its story.

Remember: The goal is to be creative and show your understanding in a fun way! Focus on clearly communicating the historical or cultural significance of what you learned.

Part 3: Share Your Story! (Approx. 15-30 minutes)

Present your creative project! Explain:

• Why you chose your topic.
• The most interesting things you learned.
• How your project represents Charlotte's history or culture.

This is a chance to celebrate your hard work and share your new knowledge about the Queen City!

Reflection (Optional Discussion Points):

• What surprised you most about Charlotte's history or culture?
• How has learning about Charlotte's past helped you understand the city today?
• If you could add another chapter to Charlotte's story, what would it be about?