Cornelius is set to gain a major new attraction in 2026 that honors its past while looking toward its future. The upcoming Cornelius History Museum will highlight the town’s agricultural roots, early settlers, and economic growth.
The Cornelius History Museum Board President is David Hodson, who also serves as CEO of Because You Served, LLC. David sees the project as a way to strengthen community ties. “This museum isn’t just about preserving artifacts,” he says, “it’s about preserving stories … stories of the farmers, families, and veterans who shaped Cornelius and continue to inspire us today.”
The museum is projected to cost about $2 million, with $1 million already raised through private donations and a $500,000 state grant. David calls the early support “a testament to how deeply people care about our shared history.” He adds: “When neighbors, businesses, and civic leaders come together like this, it shows that our town values its roots and believes in our future.”
Scheduled to open in summer 2026, the museum will occupy the Agriculture Building on School Street, which once served as a hub for teaching modern farming practices in the early 1900s. Interactive exhibits will combine historical artifacts with engaging educational programs. “We want visitors of all ages to feel like they’ve stepped back in time,” David smiles. “Kids will be able to touch, see, and even hear the history that built Cornelius.”
More than a collection of displays, the museum will also host community events and school programs, becoming a cultural anchor in the town’s walkable downtown district. “This will be a gathering place,” David shares. “A spot where families can learn together and where our veterans’ contributions are recognized alongside our agricultural heritage.”
A seasoned entrepreneur and community leader, David brings decades of experience in real estate and finance as CEO of Properties of the Carolinas. David’s wife, Judy, is a native of Cornelius and he has three children (Jarrett, Meredith, and Laura Lee) and eight grandchildren.
“Serving veterans and their families taught me that remembering our past strengthens our present,” he reflects. “This museum is a gift to future generations, a reminder of who we are and how we got here.”
Community members can join the effort through donations, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming programs. As Cornelius eagerly anticipates opening day, the Cornelius History Museum stands poised to celebrate the town’s rich history while creating a vibrant destination for years to come.
David Hodson is CEO of Because You Served, which was co-founded by him and his son, Jarrett Hodson. The organization provides free real estate services to veterans, their families, and first responders—recognizing their extreme sacrifices. Through this initiative, David has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting those who have served and are currently serving, ensuring they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
