F.W. Woolworth Co.

For residents of North Carolina, particularly in Greensboro, the address W February 1 Place holds a profound historical significance, marking the location of what was once the F.W. Woolworth Co. department store. While the F.W. Woolworth Co. as a retail chain no longer operates in the United States in its original form, this specific building in Greensboro has been preserved and transformed into a powerful monument to American history: the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. It stands not as a place for shopping for general merchandise anymore, but as a crucial educational institution that commemorates a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

The former Woolworth's building in Greensboro is globally recognized as the site where, on February 1, 1960, four African American college students — Ezell Blair Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan), Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, and David Richmond, known as the "Greensboro Four" — staged a peaceful sit-in at a segregated "whites-only" lunch counter. Their courageous act ignited a wave of nonviolent protests across the South, fundamentally shifting the strategy of the Civil Rights Movement and ultimately contributing to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This building is not just a structure; it is a symbol of resilience, determination, and the enduring fight for equality.

Today, the F.W. Woolworth Co. building serves as the permanent home of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum (ICRCM), which opened its doors in 2010. The museum meticulously preserves a portion of the original lunch counter, allowing visitors to stand in the very spot where history was made. For locals in North Carolina, visiting this site offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with a defining chapter of American history that unfolded right in their backyard, fostering a deeper understanding of civil rights and social justice.

The historic F.W. Woolworth Co. Building is prominently located at W February 1 Pl, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA. This address places it directly in the heart of downtown Greensboro, making it a central and easily accessible landmark for residents across North Carolina. The renaming of the street to "W February 1 Place" specifically honors the historic sit-in that took place there, ensuring its significance is recognized daily.

Being in a vibrant downtown area, the location is well-served by local transportation options, including pedestrian-friendly streets. While direct on-site parking might be limited due to its urban setting, numerous public parking garages and lots are typically available within a short walking distance in downtown Greensboro. This central placement allows the museum to be a key part of any visit to Greensboro's revitalized city center, easily integrated into walking tours or day trips for both locals and visitors. Its accessible location ensures that this vital piece of American history remains within reach for all who wish to learn and reflect.

The F.W. Woolworth Co. building no longer operates as a department store. Instead, its primary "services" are now educational, historical, and commemorative, as it houses the International Civil Rights Center & Museum (ICRCM).

• Historical Preservation and Exhibition: The primary service is the preservation of the original F.W. Woolworth lunch counter, which is a centerpiece of the museum. The museum offers extensive exhibits and artifacts detailing the Greensboro Sit-ins and the broader American Civil Rights Movement.
• Educational Tours: The museum provides guided tours that offer in-depth narratives and context about the sit-ins, the lives of the Greensboro Four, and the impact of the movement. These tours are designed to be informative and engaging for all ages.
• Interactive Exhibits: The museum features various interactive displays and multimedia presentations that bring the history to life, allowing visitors to engage with the material in a dynamic way.
• Research and Archival Resources: As a significant historical institution, the museum likely offers resources for researchers and scholars interested in the Civil Rights Movement, though public access to archives would need to be confirmed directly with the museum.
• Gift Shop: Typically, museums of this caliber include a gift shop where visitors can purchase books, historical replicas, educational materials, and souvenirs related to civil rights history.
• Community Engagement and Events: The museum often hosts special events, lectures, discussions, and educational programs aimed at fostering community dialogue and continuing the legacy of civil rights.
• National Historic Landmark Status: Recently designated a National Historic Landmark, the building itself serves as a publicly recognized testament to its profound historical significance.

It is important to note that since the building is a museum and not a retail store, services like product returns, general sales, or traditional department store amenities are not applicable. The focus is entirely on historical education and commemoration.

The F.W. Woolworth Co. Building, now the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, holds unique features and highlights that make it an extraordinarily significant and impactful destination for locals and visitors in North Carolina.

• The Original Lunch Counter: This is arguably the most powerful feature. A preserved section of the actual "whites-only" lunch counter where the Greensboro Sit-ins took place allows visitors to stand or sit in the very spot where history was made. This tangible connection to a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement offers a profound and deeply moving experience.
• Site of the Greensboro Sit-ins: The building itself is a National Historic Landmark, recognized by the National Park Service for its central role in galvanizing the Civil Rights Movement. It is where four brave students initiated a peaceful protest that spread nationwide and significantly contributed to the desegregation of public accommodations.
• Comprehensive Civil Rights Museum: The International Civil Rights Center & Museum (ICRCM) effectively utilizes the historic space to tell the broader story of the Civil Rights Movement. Its exhibits are designed to be educational, inspiring, and thought-provoking, offering a deep dive into American history.
• Educational Programming: The museum excels in its educational offerings, including guided tours led by knowledgeable staff and interactive displays that bring the historical narrative to life for diverse audiences.
• Symbol of Nonviolent Protest: The site serves as a powerful reminder of the effectiveness of nonviolent direct action in bringing about social change. It highlights the courage of ordinary individuals who stood up against injustice.
• Architectural Preservation: Beyond its historical significance, the building itself is a preserved piece of downtown Greensboro's architectural past, reflecting the design of mid-20th-century department stores.
• Inspiration for Social Justice: For many, visiting the former Woolworth's is not just a historical lesson but an inspiration to continue advocating for justice and equality in contemporary society.

As a museum and historical landmark, the F.W. Woolworth Co. building (housing the International Civil Rights Center & Museum) typically does not offer "promotions" in the same retail sense as a traditional department store. Its value is inherent in its historical and educational significance. However, there may be specific ways to access or support the museum that could be considered beneficial for locals:

• Membership Programs: Museums often offer membership programs that provide benefits such as unlimited free admission for a year, discounts at the museum gift shop, invitations to exclusive events, and sometimes reciprocal admission to other museums. This would be a "special offer" for frequent visitors or those who wish to support the museum's mission.
• Group Rates: For schools, community organizations, or large family gatherings, the museum may offer discounted group rates for guided tours or general admission.
• Special Events and Commemorations: The museum regularly hosts events, lectures, and commemorations related to civil rights history. While these might not always be "free," they offer unique and enriching experiences that are exclusive to the museum. For instance, the 65th anniversary of the sit-ins in January 2025 will feature special events.
• Educational Discounts: Students, educators, or military personnel might be eligible for discounted admission rates. It's always advisable to check their official website or inquire directly.
• Donations and Sponsorships: While not a promotion, supporting the museum through donations or sponsorships directly contributes to its preservation and educational efforts, which benefits the entire community.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on admission fees, hours of operation, and any current programs or special access opportunities, individuals in North Carolina should visit the International Civil Rights Center & Museum's official website or contact them directly.

For direct inquiries or to plan your visit to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum at the former F.W. Woolworth Co. building in Greensboro, here is their contact information:

Address: W February 1 Pl, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA

Please note that while "W February 1 Pl" is the street name, the museum's official address is often listed as 134 South Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27401, as it is a corner building. Both addresses refer to the same location.

Phone: While a specific phone number for the museum itself was not provided in the prompt, general contact information for the International Civil Rights Center & Museum can typically be found on their official website. For inquiries related to the museum, it is best to search for their direct contact number online. The provided information only states "W February 1 Pl", which is now the street name.

For residents of North Carolina, particularly those in Greensboro, the F.W. Woolworth Co. Building, now the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, is not merely a "place of interest" but a profound and essential cornerstone of local identity and national history. Its suitability for locals transcends typical retail experiences, offering a deeply educational and reflective journey into a pivotal moment that occurred right on their streets.

Visiting this site provides an unparalleled opportunity for North Carolinians to connect directly with the legacy of the Greensboro Sit-ins. Standing at the preserved lunch counter, where the courage of four young men sparked a national movement, offers a tangible link to a defining chapter of the Civil Rights era. This firsthand experience fosters a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for equality, making abstract historical concepts tangible and relatable.

Furthermore, the museum serves as a vital educational resource for schools and families across North Carolina, offering programs and tours that illuminate the principles of social justice, nonviolent protest, and perseverance. It cultivates an appreciation for the sacrifices made and inspires ongoing civic engagement. For Greensboro locals, the building is a source of immense pride, anchoring their city to a moment that reshaped America. It reminds them of the power of community action and individual bravery, making it an indispensable landmark that continues to educate, inspire, and unite the community around the enduring pursuit of civil rights.