Custom House Museum

The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center stands as a vibrant cornerstone of cultural life in downtown Clarksville, Tennessee. Housed in part within a striking 1898 building, the museum merges historical grandeur with dynamic programming, offering a compelling experience for visitors of all ages. Designed by William Aiken and originally built to manage the influx of mail and customs work tied to the region’s booming international tobacco trade, the structure reflects an eclectic architectural style that has made it a city landmark.

After serving various civic functions—including housing the Clarksville Department of Electricity—the historic building was repurposed as a museum in 1984. The transformation came in conjunction with Clarksville’s bicentennial celebration, marking a new chapter for the building and the community it serves. A significant expansion in 1996 tripled the museum’s size, enhancing its ability to offer comprehensive exhibitions and educational outreach. Although the facility sustained major damage during a tornado in 1999, it was carefully restored and reintroduced as the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, signaling a renewed commitment to the arts, history, and community engagement.

Today, the museum offers a diverse slate of exhibitions ranging from local history and fine art to hands-on science displays. Permanent and rotating exhibits reflect the area’s rich heritage and creative spirit, while programming includes lectures, performances, multicultural events, and interactive workshops. The museum is particularly dedicated to educational outreach, offering tours and programs for schools and homeschool groups, and participating in nationwide initiatives like Museums for All and Blue Star Museums.

With deep roots in the community and an eye toward the future, the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center remains a vital institution for preserving local legacy and inspiring lifelong learning in Clarksville and Montgomery County.