Memberships and Donations

Your support means that we can preserve history in the lower Cape Fear region. Join the ranks of those determined to keep the past present in the area’s oldest historical society!

As a 501(c)3 organization under the stewardship of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc. (LCFHS), the Latimer House relies on your generosity. Your tax-deductible contributions enable us to maintain the Latimer House and its archives, host engaging public programs, free and discounted community outreach events, and provide subsidized field trips for public schools.

Become a Member!

Choose the level that’s best for you and enjoy the benefits!

• Student/Volunteer – $25 (Receive 2 Latimer House tour tickets)
• Individual – $50 (Receive 2 Latimer House tour tickets)
• Family – $100 (Receive 4 Latimer House tour tickets)
• Contributing – $150 (Receive 2 Candlelight Tour tickets)
• Sustaining – $250 (Receive 2 Candlelight & 2 Night Tour tickets)
• Friend – $500 (Receive 4 Candlelight & 2 Night Tour tickets)
• Benefactor – $1000 (4 Candlelight Tour and 4 Night Tour tickets plus entrance to the Candlelight Homeowner’s party, and 4 special events passes)

Members receive free entry to Latimer House daily tours, free use of the archive (by appointment), early event ticket sales, and free entry at select membership events. Members also enjoy 10% off in the gift shop daily and 25% off every Thursday.

Latimer House Newsletter

Members receive our newsletter “For the Record” every month. From upcoming events, ongoing research projects, member and volunteer accomplishments, or ways to become involved, the newsletter has it all!

Here’s a glimpse of the April edition:

Donate By Mail

Please make your checks payable to LCFHS or Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc.

Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc
126 South Third Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

Donation FAQs

Is my donation to the Latimer House tax-deductible?

Yes, your donation to the Latimer House is tax-deductible. As part of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, any contributions made are deductible for federal income tax purposes to the fullest extent allowed by law. Please consult with a tax advisor for specific information related to your tax situation.

How is my donation used to support the Latimer House and its operations?

Your generous donation to the Latimer House is allocated towards various aspects of our operations and programming. This includes the careful preservation and maintenance of the house and its extensive archives, the curation and expansion of our exhibits, hosting educational programs and events, as well as providing subsidized field trips for public schools. Your contribution ensures that we can continue to engage the public with the rich history of Wilmington’s Victorian Era, as experienced by the Latimer family.

Can I make a donation in honor or memory of someone?

Absolutely, we would be honored to accept a donation in memory or in honor of someone. This is a meaningful way to commemorate a loved one or to celebrate a special occasion while supporting the preservation of the Latimer House. Upon receiving such a donation, we will send an acknowledgement to the individual or family indicated, notifying them of your thoughtful gift. Please ensure to provide the necessary details when making your donation.

Are there different ways to donate to the Latimer House, such as one-time gifts, recurring donations, or planned giving?

Yes, we provide a variety of options to make your giving experience as convenient as possible. You can choose to make a one-time gift, set up recurring donations, or contribute through planned giving. One-time gifts can be made at any time and in any amount. Recurring donations provide a steady stream of support and can be set up to automatically deduct a specified amount from your account at your chosen frequency. Planned giving is a form of donation where you can include the Latimer House in your estate planning, ensuring your legacy helps preserve the history of the Latimer House for future generations. For more details or assistance in setting up your preferred mode of donation, please contact us.

Can I donate physical items, like historical artifacts or materials, to the Latimer House?

Yes, we gratefully accept donations of historical artifacts or materials that align with the Latimer House’s mission and collection. These contributions play an invaluable role in expanding our exhibits and enhancing the educational experience for our visitors. However, due to space and preservation considerations, we kindly request you to contact us prior to your donation. This allows us to discuss the suitability of the item for our collection and to arrange logistics if accepted.

How can I get a receipt for my donation for tax purposes?

We provide receipts for all donations to the Latimer House. After making a donation, you will receive an acknowledgement letter which serves as your official receipt for tax purposes. This letter will include the details of your donation such as the date, amount, and a statement confirming that no goods or services were provided in exchange for your contribution. If you donate online, this letter will typically be emailed to you. For donations made by mail or in person, the receipt will be mailed to your address. If for some reason you do not receive your receipt, or if you need a duplicate copy, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.