Thinkatorium to revitalize former Belk location in downtown Morganton

The former Belk building on West Union Street in downtown Morganton is the future home of a unique children's museum.

The museum, which will feature hands-on learning opportunities, will be called “Thinkatorium.”

The idea for the museum was initially advanced prior to the COVID-19 pandemic several years ago. It was originally planned for a different location, but the project was shelved during the ensuing shutdown.

That turned out to be a blessing in disguise, according to Colleen Bennett, chair of the museum’s board of directors.

“We had been working on this pre-pandemic,” Bennett said. “We had worked on it before and had engaged an architect, but obviously, due to the pandemic we had to stop.

“We got very lucky in the fact that we didn’t start construction because this potential new location will be incredible if it does happen.”

The group filed as a nonprofit with the N.C. Secretary of State’s office Monday and is officially named The Charles M. Fulenwider Thinkatorium Children's Museum.

Bennett said it would likely take 6-12 months to receive 501(c)(3) status, but the group is currently raising funds and hopes to begin construction by the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026.

The 11,000-square-foot space at 214 W. Union is owned by Fulenwider Investment Holdings, LLC. Built in 1949, the building housed the Belk store for decades and was later the home of Body-Tech Fitness Morganton for 14 years before that business closed in 2015.

Bennett said she could not yet share details of the partnership between the project and the property owner. She did say the architectural firm that worked on the initial phases of the previous project has been re-engaged.

“We have an incredible partnership that we cannot yet disclose, but it will be in an incredible location for the downtown area.”

“We are so excited that we have people that are very interested in this, and it will be incredible for our community.”

Sharon Jablonski, the City of Morganton’s Director of Cultural and Creative Development and a member of the museum board, said Thinkatorium would provide a boost to the 200 block of West Union, which has been marked in recent years by vacant storefronts, a rarity in downtown.

“This is a very exciting and much-needed project for our community,” Jablonski said. “Not only does it have the opportunity to fill a need for our children, parents, and grandparents, it can also be the impetus for the Belk’s block revitalization.”

In recent years, children’s museums that feature dynamic, tactile learning opportunities have flourished in the area. Both Discovery Place in Charlotte and Kidsenses in downtown Rutherfordton are examples of the trend.

Bennett said she’s optimistic Thinkatorium will be one of the best of its kind. “Think Kidsenses on steroids,” she said. “It’s going to be huge.

“It’s going to have its own unique character for Morganton.”

Marty Queen is the senior reporter for The Paper. He may be reached at 828-445-8595 or marty@thepaper.media.