Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Billy Graham Library

The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square-foot museum and ministry center located on a 150-acre campus in , dedicated to documenting and sharing the life, faith journey, and global evangelistic ministry of , the influential 20th-century who preached to over 215 million people in person and reached billions more through media. Opened to the public on June 5, 2007, following a ceremony attended by former U.S. presidents and over 1,000 guests, the facility was established by the (BGEA) to communicate the Gospel message of Christ through interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal artifacts from Graham's career. Key features include the "Journey of Faith" walkthrough with galleries tracing Graham's early life on a dairy farm, his rise as a , landmark crusades, advisory roles with U.S. presidents, and family influences such as his wife Ruth Bell Graham, whose preserved childhood home and adjacent gravesite are integrated into the site. The barn-shaped main building, designed to evoke Graham's rural roots, houses theaters, interactive kiosks, and rotating special exhibits on topics like crusade music and presidential interactions, attracting over 1.1 million visitors in its first decade and serving as a spiritual retreat emphasizing personal salvation and evangelism without charge for admission.

History

Planning and Construction

The planning phase for the Billy Graham Library commenced in 2004, when JHS Architecture initiated collaboration with the (BGEA), the project owner, and ITEC Entertainment, a museum display design firm based in , to develop the site's conceptual framework. The design emphasized recreating elements of Billy Graham's childhood farm environment, including the relocation and restoration of the family's original 1930s homeplace from nearby Little River, which Graham's nephew Melvin "Mel" Graham had preserved after acquiring it in the 1990s; this two-story, approximately 2,400-square-foot structure, originally built for $9,000, was dismantled and reconstructed on the library grounds to anchor the site's historical authenticity. Public announcement of the library project occurred on , 2005, at BGEA headquarters in , with construction plans outlining a facility on 20 landscaped acres adjacent to the association's international offices, approximately four miles from the Graham family farm where grew up. A private groundbreaking ceremony followed on August 26, 2005, marking the start of site preparation and building erection under JHS Architecture's oversight for exterior, interior, and exhibit coordination. The structure employed tilt-wall concrete for its 41,000-square-foot main building, clad in stone and wood to evoke a rustic dairy barn—a deliberate symbolic choice reflecting Graham's rural upbringing and evangelical roots—featuring a prominent entryway and a windowless rectangular core optimized for climate-controlled exhibits. integrated serene pathways, native plantings, and farm-like features such as to foster a year-round welcoming atmosphere, with progressing to in advance of the facility's dedication on May 31, 2007.

Opening and Initial Operations

The Billy Graham Library was dedicated on May 31, 2007, during a ceremony attended by more than 1,000 guests, including former U.S. Presidents , , and , as well as members of the Graham family and ministry associates. The event highlighted the library's role in preserving and presenting the evangelist's life and ministry, with speeches emphasizing Graham's global impact on sharing the Christian Gospel. The facility opened to the public four days later, on , , as a 40,000-square-foot complex on the grounds of the Evangelistic Association's international headquarters in . Initial operations featured free admission and self-guided tours through exhibits chronicling Graham's upbringing, conversion, and preaching career, with the site operating Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and closed on Sundays. These hours and access model supported immediate public engagement, drawing visitors to interactive displays and the restored Graham family homeplace without requiring reservations for individuals.

Renovations and Expansions

The Billy Graham Library underwent renovations in early 2010, closing for several months to incorporate enhancements such as a by artist depicting preaching, thousands of books from Graham's personal library, and additional artifacts including his desk and typewriter. These updates aimed to enrich visitor exhibits, culminating in a rededication ceremony attended by hundreds. In January 2015, the library closed for upgrades and additions, focusing on facility improvements and exhibit enhancements, before reopening in June with , then 91 years old, making a rare public appearance at the event. A significant refresh occurred in late 2021, with the library closing after to renovate The Journey of Faith tour, introducing new technology, visual enhancements, and updated exhibits after 16 years of operation since opening. Concurrently, added , a 6,000-square-foot multipurpose room designed for groups, large bus tours, and events, named in honor of evangelist Billy Kim. The Archive and Research Center also opened as part of these 2022 projects, expanding research capabilities. The refreshed library and new hall were dedicated on December 13, 2022, with former Vice President in attendance, marking the completion of nearly a year of work that temporarily halted operations but improved visitor capacity and technological integration.

Architecture and Site Features

Building Design and Symbolism

The Billy Graham Library's building is designed in the style of a dairy barn, evoking the rural farm setting of 's childhood on the outskirts of . This architectural choice intentionally reflects Graham's humble origins as a raised on a dairy , grounding the structure in his personal history and early life experiences. The barn-like facade, constructed with materials and forms reminiscent of mid-20th-century agricultural buildings, spans approximately 40,000 square feet and serves as the central museum space. A prominent feature of the design is the 40-foot-high glass entrance framed in the shape of a , which draws visitors inward while symbolizing the centrality of Christ's in Graham's evangelistic message. This motif functions as a visual reminder that reconciliation with occurs solely through the , aligning with the core theological emphasis of Graham's . The transparent glass allows natural light to illuminate the entry, enhancing the symbolic invitation to and contrasting the rustic barn exterior with an overt Christian emblem. The overall site integration, including the barn structure alongside preserved farm elements like silos, reinforces themes of simplicity and authenticity, mirroring Graham's transition from rural roots to global influence without abandoning foundational values. Wooden beams within the building further echo barn construction techniques, maintaining architectural consistency and symbolic ties to agrarian humility.

Restored Graham Family Homeplace

The Graham Family Homeplace is a two-story brick Colonial residence constructed in 1927 by William Franklin "Frank" Graham Sr., father of evangelist Billy Graham, on the family's 300-acre dairy farm in Charlotte, North Carolina. Originally situated along Park Road approximately four miles from its current location, the approximately 2,400-square-foot structure served as the family home where Billy Graham resided from age eight until departing for college in 1940. The farm, which included over 70 cows, reflected the rural, agrarian lifestyle of the Graham family, including Billy's mother, Morrow Coffey Graham, and his siblings. In the early , as part of the Billy Graham Library's development, the home was relocated to the library grounds at 4330 Westmont Drive and meticulously restored using 80 percent of its original materials to preserve authenticity. This restoration effort aimed to provide visitors with an intimate glimpse into 's formative years amid modest, farm-based circumstances. Open to the public as an extension of the library experience, the homeplace features period furnishings and artifacts evoking daily life on the dairy farm, including connections to the Graham Brothers Dairy operation. It underscores the humble origins that shaped Graham's character before his global ministry, with guided tours highlighting family dynamics and early influences such as parental emphasis on faith and hard work. The site has hosted notable visitors, including former President George W. Bush during Graham's lying in repose in 2018, affirming its role in commemorating his legacy.

Exhibits and Visitor Experience

Journey of Faith Tour

The Journey of Faith Tour serves as the core self-guided exhibit at the Billy Graham Library, chronicling the life and evangelistic ministry of through a sequence of immersive displays. Spanning the library's 40,000-square-foot interior, the tour typically requires about 1.5 hours to complete and is accessible free of charge, with the final entry available at 3:30 p.m. daily. Visitors enter via a prominent 40-foot glass door, symbolizing the tour's thematic focus on , before progressing through eight theaters and four galleries. These spaces feature multimedia presentations, including films depicting Graham's early years on the family dairy farm, his conversion experience in 1934 at age 16, and his rise as a preacher via radio, television, and global . Artifacts such as a of Graham's personal desk and models of the Graham Brothers Dairy truck illustrate his rural upbringing in , while rare photographs and interactive kiosks detail his partnerships with U.S. presidents and outreach to over 215 million people across 185 countries. The tour emphasizes Graham's commitment to biblical preaching, highlighting key events like the 1949 Los Angeles Crusade that propelled his international fame and his establishment of the in 1950. Educational exhibits cover his innovative use of for and personal testimonies from crusade attendees, fostering reflection on themes of and discipleship. Volunteers often assist by providing context and praying with guests, enhancing the experiential aspect without altering the self-paced format.

Multimedia and Interactive Displays

The multimedia and interactive displays form a core component of the Billy Graham Library's Journey of Faith Tour, utilizing eight theaters and four galleries to present 's life and ministry through films, archival footage, and dynamic presentations. These elements retrace Graham's path from his early years in to his global evangelistic crusades, incorporating high-definition videos of historic events such as mass gatherings where he preached to millions. Interactive kiosks enable visitors to access personalized content, including timelines of Graham's career and audio clips of his sermons, fostering direct engagement with primary materials. In 2022, the library closed temporarily for technological upgrades, enhancing lighting, audio-visual systems, and exhibit interactivity across the tour to improve clarity and immersion. These renovations introduced refreshed sequences and a dedicated exhibit on Graham's final crusade in , featuring video reconstructions and artifacts that highlight his enduring message of . The updates, completed by fall 2022, integrated modern projection and touch-screen interfaces without altering the tour's narrative focus on Graham's eight-decade ministry. Student-oriented programs further leverage these displays with STEM-aligned activities, such as challenges tied to crusade , available at no additional cost beyond admission. Specialized displays, like the "Time is Near" video installation, emphasize Graham's urgency in evangelism, drawing from over 70 years of recorded ministry footage to convey themes of repentance and faith. Overall, these features prioritize archival authenticity over interpretive overlays, using verified recordings and artifacts to substantiate claims of Graham's impact, such as documented conversions exceeding 3 million at his events.

Research Facilities

Billy Graham Archive and Research Center

The Billy Graham Archive and Research Center is a dedicated research facility at the Library in , housing the consolidated collection of evangelist 's personal papers, sermons, correspondence, photographs, audio recordings, and video materials from his more than 70-year ministry. The 30,000-square-foot center opened to the public on November 8, 2022, marking the first time all such artifacts were centralized in one location after years of distribution across sites including Wheaton College in . This consolidation enables scholars to examine Graham's work in proximity to related sites like his boyhood home and gravesite. The center's holdings encompass original documents such as handwritten sermon notes, letters with and everyday correspondents, and from and broadcasts, preserving evidence of Graham's evangelistic methods and global outreach efforts. These materials support empirical analysis of themes like proclamation, cultural engagement, and personal faith influences on public life, as demonstrated by researchers studying Graham's decision-making processes. While exact item counts are not publicly detailed, the draws from Graham's documented career, which included over 400 reaching an estimated 215 million attendees in person and billions via media. Access is structured for academic and ministerial use, with an on-site Research Room offering hands-on examination of physical items by appointment, alongside digitized portions available online for preliminary review. The facility aims to equip researchers, students, and leaders with primary sources to replicate or adapt approaches to evangelism, fostering training in practical rather than interpretive narratives. In-person visits require advance scheduling via the center's contact line at 704-401-3200, prioritizing verified scholarly intent to maintain material integrity.

Outdoor and Commemorative Elements

Memorial Prayer Garden

The Memorial Prayer Garden constitutes a serene outdoor feature on the grounds of the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, intended for prayer, reflection, and commemoration. It encompasses a cross-shaped brick walkway culminating in the burial sites of evangelist Billy Graham, his wife Ruth Bell Graham, and select Billy Graham Evangelistic Association personnel. Encircled by floral displays and verdant landscaping, the garden affords visitors a tranquil for spiritual contemplation throughout the seasons. Ruth Bell Graham's interment occurred there on June 17, 2007, three days after her death on June 14, 2007, at age 87. followed on March 2, 2018, via private ceremony at the site, subsequent to his demise on February 21, 2018, at age 99. Chaplains stationed graveside extend outreach to attendees, transforming the locale into a venue for perpetual evangelistic engagement. Conceived as a haven for ambulatory or seated , the underscores the library's commitment to fostering personal encounters with Christian faith. In April 2020, amid the crisis, it stayed accessible, enabling supplicants to seek solace from prevailing global tribulations.

Programs and Public Engagement

Special Events and Seasonal Activities

The Billy Graham Library hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, often aligned with Christian holidays, family-oriented themes, and outreach, drawing visitors for interactive experiences beyond its permanent exhibits. These events typically include live performances, educational sessions, and community gatherings, with admission free unless specified otherwise. Seasonal activities peak during major holidays. Christmas at the Library runs annually from early through December 23, featuring a live , , horse-drawn carriage rides, children's story time, Christmas carolers, holiday treats, and extended access to the Journey of Faith tour, emphasizing the birth of Jesus Christ in line with Billy Graham's evangelistic focus. Easter celebrations, such as the family-friendly Easter event held on March 27 in past years, incorporate similar interactive elements like themed tours and gatherings to reflect on themes central to Graham's preaching. Summer programming targets families and youth with events like the Ladies on , Kidzfest on July 12 for children's activities, Common Grounds coffee gatherings on July 24, an Intensive on August 15 teaching faith-sharing skills, and dedicated Homeschool Days, all designed to engage younger audiences in Graham's legacy of . Fall events include the Heritage Celebration Day on September 23, Children's Story Time on September 26, dinners featuring Graham family members like on September 30, and Bikers with Boxes on October dates, where motorcyclists deliver shoebox gifts for Operation Christmas Child, supporting global evangelism efforts. Annual commemorations include 's birthday celebration each November, highlighting his life through special programs and exhibits, such as the Decision Magazine display extending through early November, which showcases publications from his ministry. events, like the multi-day "Remembering the Life and Legacy of " series from February 17-21, feature archival presentations and guest speakers to revisit his and influence. These activities underscore the library's role in perpetuating Graham's commitment to public while providing accessible, faith-based engagement opportunities.

Educational and Outreach Initiatives

The Billy Graham Library provides downloadable lesson plans tailored for students from through 12th grade, designed for use before, during, and after visits to integrate the site's exhibits into curricula covering topics such as , civics, communications, technology, and the global impact of Billy Graham's evangelistic ministry. These resources include interactive elements, take-home activities, discussion questions, and original archival footage to facilitate about Graham's life and Christian faith. A key initiative is the full-day STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) program, introduced in early 2024, which engages K-12 students in hands-on activities that connect Graham's historical legacy—such as his use of and global travel—with STEM principles, including problem-solving challenges modeled after his decision-making processes. The program, available to schools and homeschool groups at no cost beyond lunch, emphasizes and through exhibits like recreations of Graham's , and has been described by participating educators as an innovative blend of biblical and academic skills. Outreach extends to homeschool families via Christ-centered field trips featuring guided tours and scripture-based activities, as highlighted in events where participants reported refreshed perspectives on and . Additionally, virtual tour resources offer free lessons on themes like Graham's role in the era, enabling remote access for broader student engagement without physical visits. These efforts align with the Evangelistic Association's emphasis on Christian education, equipping youth to apply Graham's principles of evangelism in contemporary contexts.

Reception and Impact

Visitor Attendance and Feedback

The Billy Graham Library, which opened on June 2, 2007, has drawn significant attendance since its inception. By June 2008, more than 165,000 visitors from all 50 U.S. states and 41 countries had toured the facility. The library reached its 1 millionth visitor milestone by December 2015. Annual figures indicate variability, with 144,000 visitors in 2017 rising to 214,000 in 2018 following Billy Graham's death on February 21, 2018, reflecting heightened interest in his legacy. The cumulative total surpassed 2 million visitors by August 30, 2024, when the library welcomed its 2 millionth guest, Gabriel Salstein, from , . Visitor feedback has been predominantly positive, emphasizing the site's inspirational content, well-maintained grounds, and hospitable staff. On TripAdvisor, the library maintains a 4.8 out of 5 rating from over 2,500 reviews as of 2025, with commenters frequently highlighting the informative multimedia displays, historical artifacts, and emotional impact of exhibits tracing Graham's evangelistic career. Yelp reviews average 4.7 out of 5 from 126 submissions, praising the immersive "Journey of Faith" tour and accessibility for diverse visitors, including those with mobility challenges. It consistently ranks as the top attraction in Charlotte on TripAdvisor, attributed to its free admission and blend of biographical storytelling with Gospel messaging. Some visitors approach it from a secular historical lens, noting the archival depth on 20th-century American evangelicalism, though feedback occasionally critiques the overtly faith-oriented narrative as less neutral.

Broader Cultural and Evangelistic Influence

The serves as a public-facing extension of the (BGEA), founded in 1950, by presenting over 70 years of evangelistic history and emphasizing the message that preached to nearly 215 million people across 185 countries. As a ministry dedicated to communicating the life-giving message of Jesus Christ, the library integrates multimedia exhibits and personal artifacts to illustrate Graham's farm-boy origins and global outreach, inspiring visitors to engage with evangelical principles. In its evangelistic role, the library has hosted initiatives like the Evangelism Intensive, launched in 2023, which equips pastors, evangelists, and church leaders with training on proclaiming amid cultural shifts, drawing speakers such as to underscore evangelism as essential without alternatives. These programs build on Graham's conferences, such as those in in 1983, 1986, and 2000, fostering a continued passion for worldwide outreach. By September 2024, the library had welcomed over 2 million visitors, many of whom encountered for the first time, contributing to post-Graham commitments estimated at 24 million through BGEA efforts including the facility itself. Culturally, the library contextualizes Graham's ministry within 20th-century religious, social, and political landscapes, including his advisory role to 12 consecutive U.S. presidents, offering insights into evangelicalism's intersection with American history and global events. This preservation counters secular narratives by highlighting empirical outcomes of faith-based influence, such as personal transformations reported by figures like , who credited Graham with shaping his spiritual life. The facility's emphasis on Graham's cooperative efforts with diverse organizations has modeled ecumenical evangelism, influencing modern evangelical strategies without diluting doctrinal core.

Criticisms and Controversies

Portrayal of Graham's Legacy

The Billy Graham Library depicts Billy Graham's legacy as a transformative journey from a modest dairy farm upbringing in , to becoming a globally influential who preached to over 215 million people across 185 countries and territories through , radio, television, and . Exhibits emphasize his 1934 conversion at age 16 during a , his early ministry at Florida Bible Institute and , and pivotal decisions like adopting the "Billy Graham rule" of avoiding private meetings with women other than his wife to maintain integrity. The narrative frames Graham as "America's Pastor," highlighting his counsel to every U.S. president from Harry Truman to , with displays of artifacts like correspondence and photos underscoring his role in promoting moral and spiritual guidance amid national crises. This portrayal centers message as the core of Graham's enduring impact, with interactive elements and multimedia presentations illustrating mass conversions—such as 2.3 million attendees at his 1994 and 2000 crusades in —and his establishment of the in 1950 to sustain outreach. The library's design, resembling a rustic , reinforces themes of and divine calling, positioning Graham's achievements as evidence of faith's power rather than personal alone. Critics contend that this hagiographic approach omits significant controversies, rendering the legacy incomplete and presuming viewer devotion without critical depth. For instance, exhibits bypass Graham's 1972 private conversation with , captured on tapes released in 2002, where Graham concurred with Nixon's anti-Semitic remarks about Jewish influence in media and government, later prompting Graham's public apology for words he claimed not to recall but deemed indefensible. Similarly absent are Graham's early reluctance to fully integrate crusades amid the —despite inviting to pray at a 1957 New York event—he maintained segregated seating in some Southern events until , reflecting broader evangelical tensions of the era. Such exclusions, managed by the family-led , prioritize inspirational storytelling over balanced historiography, potentially shielding visitors from causal factors like political entanglements that tested Graham's .

Access and Archival Concerns

The Archive & Research Center, opened on November 7, 2022, adjacent to the in , houses over one million artifacts, including sermons, correspondence, audio-visual records, and organizational papers from the (BGEA). Access to the center is restricted to researchers who must schedule appointments through the official website, unlike the publicly accessible museum exhibits of the main library, which offer free admission during standard hours. Certain documents remain closed to public view until 30 years after their creation, with additional restrictions possible on sensitive materials, a policy inherited from prior arrangements at Wheaton College. Prior to the 2019 transfer of the BGEA's archival collections from Wheaton College's Billy Graham Center Archives to , scholars benefited from relatively in an academic setting, facilitating broad historical research on Graham's . The relocation, directed by BGEA under 's , prompted criticisms that centralized control could enable selective access, potentially limiting scrutiny of Graham's interactions with political figures or evolving theological stances. Historians expressed concern that denying entry to researchers not aligned with BGEA's evangelical priorities might hinder objective scholarship, allowing the organization to shape narratives of Graham's legacy, as one observer noted: "By taking the papers away from Wheaton, where access is open, Franklin Graham and the BGEA can now control access and can thus control the narrative." These apprehensions stem from the BGEA's proprietary oversight, contrasting with Wheaton's institutional independence, though no widespread reports of denied access have emerged post-2022 opening. Preservation efforts in the $12 million facility emphasize climate-controlled storage and fire-suppression systems to safeguard documents, addressing environmental risks inherent to paper-based collections. However, the absence of public initiatives for core holdings—beyond select online exhibits—raises questions about long-term for non-visiting scholars, potentially exacerbating reliance on BGEA-mediated approvals. The center's design prioritizes secure storage over commons, reflecting BGEA's focus on controlled rather than unrestricted dissemination.

References

  1. [1]
    What to Expect - The Billy Graham Library
    The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square-foot experience where you'll discover the life and legacy of America's Pastor. Designed to reflect Billy ...
  2. [2]
    What is The Library
    The Billy Graham Library is a ministry, prayerfully planned with the intention of communicating the unchanging, life-giving message of Jesus Christ.
  3. [3]
    On This Date: Billy Graham Library Dedication—May 31, 2007
    May 31, 2017 · On May 31, 2007, the Billy Graham Library was dedicated with over 1,000 attendees, including former presidents, to honor Billy Graham's impact ...
  4. [4]
    Celebrating 8 Years at the Billy Graham Library
    Jun 5, 2015 · The Billy Graham Library, dedicated May 31, 2007, opened to the public June 5, 2007, to share Billy Graham's message of hope, focusing on the ...
  5. [5]
    FAQ - The Billy Graham Library
    Founded in 2007, the Billy Graham Library features exhibits showcasing the life and faith of Billy Graham. Also, stop by Billy Graham's beautifully restored ...
  6. [6]
    Billy Graham Library Celebrates 10 Years of Sharing the Gospel
    Jun 5, 2017 · On June 5, 2007, the Billy Graham Library first opened its doors. Now, 10 years late, more than 1.1 million visitors from around the world have walked through ...
  7. [7]
    Billy Graham Library - JHS Architecture
    We began working on this particular project in 2004 with both the owner and museum display designers, ITEC out of Orlando Florida. Together the project was ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  8. [8]
    The Story Behind Billy Graham's Childhood Home
    Aug 4, 2022 · There was just one issue: he didn't have a place to put it. That is, until plans for the Billy Graham Library began to take shape. Mel couldn't ...
  9. [9]
    Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, NC | Carolina Cell Therapy
    Sep 13, 2020 · On the 23rd of April, 2005, the BGEA headquarters announced the plans and construction of the Library and in the following months, the Library's ...
  10. [10]
    Billy Graham Library Construction Begins With Groundbreaking ...
    Aug 26, 2005 · The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) held a private groundbreaking ceremony for the Billy Graham Library, Friday, Aug. 26 at 1 p.m. ...
  11. [11]
    Billy Graham Library Dedication | Video | C-SPAN.org
    May 31, 2007 · The center was designed to further Reverend Graham's ministry and evangelical work. Report Video Issues.<|separator|>
  12. [12]
    Celebrating 15 Years - The Billy Graham Library Blog
    Jun 4, 2022 · One June 4, 2007, the Billy Graham Library opened its doors to the public for the first time. As we prepare for the Billy Graham Library to ...
  13. [13]
    Billy Graham Library PRESS ROOM - BGEA Media
    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 17, 2022 – The Archive and Research Center at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, will officially open on Nov. 8. The ...
  14. [14]
    [PDF] The Billy Graham Library Fact Sheet
    Designed to communicate the life-giving message of Jesus Christ, the barn-shaped building is situated on 20 landscaped acres, only miles from where Billy.
  15. [15]
    Billy Graham Library Unveils Kinkade Mural, Other Enhancements ...
    After being closed for several months of renovations, the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C., today showcased new additions and changes to the facility ...
  16. [16]
    Hundreds Gather For Billy Graham Library Rededication - WYFF 4
    Apr 21, 2010 · Hundreds gathered in Charlotte for the rededication of the Billy Graham Library. Some of the changes made were in his wife's room.
  17. [17]
    Rev. Billy Graham returns home in rare public appearance | wcnc.com
    Jun 22, 2015 · The library has been closed since January for upgrades and additions. It was scheduled to reopen to the public Wednesday. The 91-year-old Graham ...Missing: improvements | Show results with:improvements
  18. [18]
    An Inside Look at Changes Coming to the Billy Graham Library
    Mar 3, 2022 · The Library will reopen in this fall after being refreshed with new technology and visual enhancements throughout The Journey of Faith tour.
  19. [19]
    Construction Update - The Billy Graham Library
    Apr 13, 2022 · The Library has been closed since late December for a refresh and to build a large multipurpose room for seminary groups, large bus tours and other visitors.
  20. [20]
    2022 to Bring Exciting Changes for Billy Graham Library
    Jan 14, 2022 · The Library will reopen in summer 2022 after three projects are completed: 1. Completion of the Billy Graham Archive and Research Center.
  21. [21]
    Former VP Mike Pence Attends Dedication Of Billy Graham Library ...
    The Billy Graham Library in West Charlotte is celebrating a long awaited expansion. On Tuesday, Rev. Franklin Graham led a ...Missing: renovations | Show results with:renovations
  22. [22]
    Billy Kim Hall at the Billy Graham Library - PRESS ROOM
    Dec 12, 2022 · Billy Kim and Dr. David Bruce for the ribbon cutting and dedication of the new expansion at the Billy Graham Library. The recently constructed ...Missing: renovations | Show results with:renovations
  23. [23]
    Discovering the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, NC
    Nov 4, 2024 · The Library spans 40,000 square feet and is designed around four central themes: “The Man,” “The Ministry,” “The Message,” and “The Mission.”.
  24. [24]
    https://www.wonderfulmuseums.com/museum/billy-graham-museum-in-charlotte-north-carolina/
  25. [25]
    About The Library
    Reminiscent of Billy Graham's upbringing on a dairy farm on the outskirts of Charlotte, the Library building is styled after a dairy barn, and his boyhood home ...Missing: initial | Show results with:initial
  26. [26]
    Billy Graham Library - Grateful Prayer | Thankful Heart
    The entrance to the Library is in the shape of a 40-foot-high glass cross, and serves as a visual reminder to visitors that it is only through the Cross of ...
  27. [27]
    Billy Graham Library - Spectrum Interiors of South Carolina, Inc.
    The entrance of the library is in the shape of a cross, a visual reminder to the visitors of the focus of Mr. Graham's life work. Wooden beams emblazoned with ...
  28. [28]
    [PDF] The Journey of Faith - Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
    Graham Family Homeplace: The Graham family homeplace was built in. 1927 on a dairy farm about 4 miles from the Library. Billy's mother, Morrow Coffey.
  29. [29]
    The Graham Family Homeplace
    This 1927 brick Colonial offers a look inside Billy Graham's North Carolina roots. The home was restored using 80 percent of original materials.
  30. [30]
    The Graham Family Homeplace is located just in front of the Billy ...
    Jul 31, 2020 · We're continuing our virtual tour of the Billy Graham Library, and today we are at the Homeplace. Billy's father, Frank Graham built this home ...
  31. [31]
    President George W. Bush visits with Graham Family
    Feb 26, 2018 · Former President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush visit the Graham Family Homeplace as Billy Graham lies in repose.
  32. [32]
    Ticket Selection :: Journey of Faith - The Billy Graham Library
    Our last complete tour begins at 3:30 p.m. Reservations for The Journey of Faith tour ... To reserve your spot at the other Billy Graham Library events, visit ...
  33. [33]
    Virtual Tour of the Billy Graham Library Lobby - YouTube
    Jun 3, 2020 · Take a virtual walk through the Billy Graham Library's signature 40-foot glass cross door—which is just the start of The Journey of Faith tour ...
  34. [34]
    'Virtual Tour' – The Journey of Faith - The Billy Graham Library Blog
    Jun 30, 2020 · The Journey of Faith is the “tour” portion of the Billy Graham Library and includes eight theaters and four galleries filled with multimedia presentations.
  35. [35]
    A Spiritual Group Trip to the Billy Graham Library
    The Journey of Faith is a free, hour and a half tour that retraces Graham's life and ministry through films, rare photos, memorabilia and educational exhibits.
  36. [36]
    Journey of Faith Volunteers - The Billy Graham Library
    OVER 200 VOLUNTEERS SERVE AT THE BILLY GRAHAM LIBRARY. HAVE YOU BEEN ... Journey of Faith tour and praying with guests. We ask volunteers to commit ...
  37. [37]
    Journey of Faith Tour - The Billy Graham Library
    The Billy Graham Library · Hours & Directions; About. What is The Library ... Journey of Faith Tour. Previous Slide◁︎ Next Slide▷︎. beginning of the ...
  38. [38]
    Discover the Billy Graham Library this Summer
    Jul 9, 2023 · Since 2007 ... Now, 16 years later, The Journey of Faith tour incorporates multimedia enhancements, updated exhibits, and new technology.
  39. [39]
    Student Groups - The Billy Graham Library
    Our student resources include downloadable lesson plans for teachers to use before, during and after each visit, as well as interactive elements and take-home ...
  40. [40]
    VIDEO: Special Display— "Time is Near" - The Billy Graham Library
    Apr 7, 2017 · For over 70 years of ministry, Billy Graham has been driven by an urgency to proclaim the Gospel to as many people as possible.
  41. [41]
    'Platform for the Gospel': New Display at Billy Graham Library
    Jul 11, 2024 · In a special new display at the Billy Graham Library, “Platform for the Gospel,” visitors can see these and other items from his eight decades of ministry.
  42. [42]
    Billy Graham Archive and Research Center - PRESS ROOM
    The Archive and Research Center at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, will officially open on Nov. 8. Media are invited to tour the Archive ...
  43. [43]
    Archive and Research Center Archives - The Billy Graham Library
    Billy Graham Archive and Research Center Now Open. New facility in Charlotte will house all of Billy Graham's papers and artifacts in one location for the first ...
  44. [44]
    Home — Billy Graham Archive and Research Center
    Explore an assortment of original materials and media in the Research Room—including papers, photographs, videos, and audio recordings—located in Billy Graham's ...FAQsAboutCollections GuideContact
  45. [45]
    Researcher Inspired at Billy Graham Archive and Research Center
    May 30, 2024 · Potter recently visited the Billy Graham Archive and Research Center to conduct research for his dissertation on how Graham's faith directed the ...
  46. [46]
    https://media.billygraham.org/billy-graham-biography/
  47. [47]
    Billy Graham Archive and Research Center opens on Nov. 8
    Oct 14, 2022 · To learn more about the research opportunities and in-depth training in evangelism, visit BillyGrahamArchiveCenter.org or call 704-401-3200.
  48. [48]
    Giving | Billy Graham Archive and Research Center
    The Billy Graham Archive and Research Center preserves Billy Graham's written, audio, and video records in order to equip, inspire, and embolden a new ...
  49. [49]
    The Library Grounds
    In any season, the grounds of the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, offer a peaceful setting to focus on God's beauty. The Memorial Prayer ...
  50. [50]
    Billy Graham Library Quick Peek: Memorial Prayer Garden - YouTube
    Jun 10, 2015 · The Memorial Prayer Garden at the Billy Graham Library is a tranquil garden, at the end of a cross-shaped brick walkway.
  51. [51]
    5 Reasons to Visit the Billy Graham Library this Summer
    Jun 9, 2018 · Memorial Prayer Garden Surrounding the grounds of the Library are the beautiful flowers and greenery of the Memorial Prayer Garden. While ...
  52. [52]
    Ruth Bell Graham Laid to Rest in Prayer Garden at ... - BGEA Media
    Jun 18, 2007 · Ruth Bell Graham Laid to Rest in Prayer Garden at Billy Graham Library in Charlotte. by BGEA Staff | June 18, 2007 | Billy Graham, Billy ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  53. [53]
    Official Obituary - Billy Graham Memorial
    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 21, 2018—Evangelist Billy Graham died today at 7:46 a.m. at his home in Montreat. He was 99. Throughout his life, Billy ...
  54. [54]
    The Rev. Billy Graham laid to rest in Charlotte - WYFF
    Mar 2, 2018 · The private ceremony on Friday afternoon took place at his grave site in a prayer garden at the Billy Graham Library. Family members placed ...
  55. [55]
    Sharing the Hope of the Gospel at Billy Graham's Gravesite
    Jul 7, 2023 · Billy and Ruth Graham's gravesite is located on the grounds of the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, NC. It serves as a place of continual ministry where ...
  56. [56]
    Need a peaceful place to reflect? Our memorial prayer garden was ...
    Oct 30, 2024 · Need a peaceful place to reflect? Our memorial prayer garden was designed with the intention to provide a quiet space to sit or walk in prayer.
  57. [57]
    Billy Graham Library grounds available for prayer and reflection
    Apr 17, 2020 · “The memorial prayer garden gives guests a place to come to pray, take a short walk and find respite from the uncertainty amid this global ...<|separator|>
  58. [58]
    The Billy Graham Library: Home
    May 19, 2025 · Bring your family and friends for a live nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides, light displays, delicious treats, carolers, and inspiring Library ...What to Expect · Hours & Directions · Visit · About
  59. [59]
    Events from August 15, 2020 - The Billy Graham Library
    Take a closer look at Billy Graham's impact over the years, receive recommendations from our online bookstore and enjoy highlights from Library archives.
  60. [60]
    Christmas at the Library - The Billy Graham Library
    Activities · Live Nativity · Petting Zoo · Horse-drawn Carriage Rides · Story Time · Christmas Dinner · Christmas Carolers · The Journey of Faith · Holiday Goodies.Christmas-Dinner · Christmas-at-the-library-cow · FAQs
  61. [61]
    Billy Graham Library Announces Spring Events
    Mar 15, 2021 · Spring events include Easter at the Library (March 27), Ladies Tea and Tour (April 24), book signings with Darryl Strawberry (May 1) and Dr. ...
  62. [62]
    Family-friendly summer events announced at the Billy Graham Library
    Jun 12, 2025 · Summer events include Ladies Tea (June 13), Kidzfest (July 12), Common Grounds (July 24), Evangelism Intensive (Aug 15), and Homeschool Day ( ...Missing: seasonal | Show results with:seasonal
  63. [63]
    Billy Graham Library announces fall events - BGEA Media
    Fall events include Hispanic Heritage Celebration Day (Sept 23), Children's Story Time (Sept 26), Anne Graham Lotz dinner (Sept 30), and Bikers with Boxes (Oct ...Missing: seasonal | Show results with:seasonal
  64. [64]
    Billy Graham Library | Charlotte NC - Facebook
    The Billy Graham Library is open Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Website: BillyGrahamLibrary.org. 󱙶. Follow · 󰟝. Posts.
  65. [65]
    Be Inspired at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, NC
    The main building on the property features The Journey of Faith tour, including six exhibits, two theaters and four galleries full of photos, memorabilia ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  66. [66]
    Billy Graham Library announces upcoming events - BGEA Media
    Feb 17, 2025 · The Billy Graham Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. with free admission every day. The Library is closed on Sundays.
  67. [67]
    Events Archives - The Billy Graham Library
    Take a closer look at Billy Graham's impact over the years, receive recommendations from our online bookstore and enjoy highlights from Library archives. You'll ...Missing: activities | Show results with:activities<|separator|>
  68. [68]
    Educational Resources - The Billy Graham Library
    Our student resources include downloadable lesson plans for teachers to use before, during, and after each visit, as well as interactive elements and take-home ...Missing: programs | Show results with:programs
  69. [69]
    An Amazing Lesson for Youth at the Billy Graham Library
    Aug 5, 2024 · Discover educational resources including lesson plans and STEAM program at the Billy Graham Library.Missing: outreach initiatives
  70. [70]
    Now at the Library: Educational Resources for Every Grade Level
    May 5, 2015 · The library offers free downloadable lesson plans, interactive elements, take-home pieces, activities, discussion questions, and original ...
  71. [71]
    STEAM Field Trip Now Available at the Library
    Jan 9, 2024 · This comprehensive, day-long program featuring elements from Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math as students discover Billy Graham.Missing: outreach initiatives
  72. [72]
    'The Best Experience Hands-Down:' Library offers STEAM Field Trips
    May 8, 2024 · The Billy Graham Library recently established an innovative full-day STEAM field trip for students K-12, combining critical thinking, teamwork ...<|separator|>
  73. [73]
    Discover How History and Technology Converge at the Billy Graham ...
    Sep 16, 2025 · The full-day STEAM field trip program invites students to explore the life and ministry of Billy Graham with engaging activities in science, ...
  74. [74]
    Homeschool Families Refreshed, Inspired at the Billy Graham Library
    Mar 14, 2024 · Children and their parents enjoy a Christ-centered field trip to the Billy Graham Library for a time of hands-on learning.Missing: programs | Show results with:programs
  75. [75]
    Billy Graham Library Virtual Tour
    Students and teachers, kindergarten through 12th grade can access free downloadable lessons. Topics for study include Billy Graham's work during the Cold War ...Missing: outreach initiatives<|separator|>
  76. [76]
    75th Anniversary of BGEA: Christian Education
    Jul 15, 2025 · The Billy Graham Library also promotes Christian education through its various programs, including lesson plans, STEAM, and student tours ...Missing: outreach initiatives
  77. [77]
    Billy Graham Library a big draw, just as it is - Charlotte Observer
    Jun 10, 2008 · More than 165,000 people from all 50 states and 41 countries have walked through Charlotte's Billy Graham Library since it opened to the ...Missing: statistics | Show results with:statistics
  78. [78]
    Billy Graham Library Welcomes 1 Millionth Guest
    Dec 7, 2015 · About The Billy Graham Library​​ The Billy Graham Library opened in 2007 and has since had more than 1 million visitors from around the world. ...Missing: annual numbers
  79. [79]
    Billy Graham Library: Attendance up after namesake's death
    Feb 21, 2019 · Citing a blog post on the library's website, WLOS-TV reports that 214,000 people visited the Charlotte complex in 2018, up from 144,000 in 2017.
  80. [80]
    Billy Graham Library welcomes 2 millionth guest - BGEA Media
    Aug 30, 2024 · The Billy Graham Library reached 2 million visitors, opened in 2007, and is ranked #1 in Charlotte. It has free admission and is open Mon-Sat.<|control11|><|separator|>
  81. [81]
    Billy Graham Library Welcomes 2 Millionth Visitor
    Sep 3, 2024 · On Friday, the ministry celebrated its 2 millionth visitor—Gabriel Salstein (right). “How do you feel about being celebrated?” Alex Salstein ...Missing: statistics | Show results with:statistics
  82. [82]
    Billy Graham Library (2025) - All You Need to Know ... - Tripadvisor
    Rating 4.8 (2,530) It is a beautiful museum and tribute to Billy Graham, his life and mission. It is the story of his amazing life and love of God and people.
  83. [83]
    BILLY GRAHAM LIBRARY - Updated October 2025 - Yelp
    Rating 4.7 (126) Beautiful library/museum. Amazing staff and great tour of Billy Grahams life journey. Would highly recommend for anyone to come check it out.
  84. [84]
    5 Reasons to Visit the Billy Graham Library This Summer
    Jul 15, 2024 · Consistently ranked the #1 thing to do in Charlotte on TripAdvisor, the Library offers an inspiring journey through the life and ministry of the world-renowned ...<|separator|>
  85. [85]
    Has anyone here actually been to the Billy Graham Library? - Reddit
    Jul 10, 2022 · I think of it more from a history perspective it's really interesting and well presented. There are a lot of displays with archives and such.Is Billy Graham Library actually one of the best things to do in CLT?Between this & Billy Graham Library being #1 for Charlotte we're just ...More results from www.reddit.com
  86. [86]
    Behind the Library - Part 1, The BGEA - The Billy Graham Library Blog
    Feb 4, 2014 · The BGEA, founded in 1950, aims to broadcast the Gospel and take it to all corners of the world. The Billy Graham Library is a ministry of the ...
  87. [87]
    The amazing story of God's Ambassador - The Billy Graham Library
    In over 55 years of ministry, Billy Graham has preached the Gospel message to nearly 215 million people in over 185 countries around the world.
  88. [88]
    Evangelism Intensive Captures Billy Graham's Heart for Sharing the ...
    Mar 10, 2023 · The Evangelism Intensive is an extension of the new Billy Graham Archive and Research Center at the Billy Graham Library. Pastors, evangelists ...
  89. [89]
    'There Is No Plan B': Al Mohler Stresses Importance of Evangelism
    Sep 1, 2023 · Billy Graham Library event helps equip others to proclaim God's unchanging truth in a rapidly changing world.
  90. [90]
    Igniting a Passion for Evangelism in Others - The Billy Graham Library
    May 23, 2023 · Billy Graham led the way for several international evangelism conferences, including three in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 1983, 1986, and 2000.
  91. [91]
    Billy Graham Library reaches major milestone
    Sep 1, 2024 · Heavenly Father, we celebrate the milestone of two million visitors at the Billy Graham Library.Missing: attendance statistics
  92. [92]
    Commentary: Visiting the Billy Graham Library is an incomparable ...
    Oct 25, 2023 · The library chronicles with appealing presentations the life of a young farm boy who became a mighty instrument in the hands of Almighty God.Missing: cultural | Show results with:cultural
  93. [93]
    Billy Graham Library - Charlotte POI
    The library also highlights the broader cultural and historical context in which Graham operated, providing insights into the religious, social, and ...
  94. [94]
    Jimmy Carter Shares Billy Graham's Influence on His Spiritual Life
    Dec 29, 2024 · Former President Jimmy Carter was once asked who had the most influence on his spiritual life. His answer was Billy Graham.<|separator|>
  95. [95]
    5 Ways Billy Graham Has Influenced Evangelicals And Evangelism
    Feb 21, 2018 · 5 Ways Billy Graham Has Influenced Evangelicals and Evangelism · 1. He brought many organizations together to cooperate in evangelistic efforts.<|control11|><|separator|>
  96. [96]
    An Inside Look at Billy Graham's Life
    Mar 8, 2019 · From his humble beginnings as a farm boy to taking the stage in front of millions, Billy Graham had quite the extraordinary journey.
  97. [97]
    Billy Graham, Evangelist to the World, Dead at Age 99
    Feb 21, 2018 · Graham, a country boy turned world evangelist, who prayed with every U.S. president from Harry S. Truman to Barack Obama, was raised on a dairy ...Missing: portrayal | Show results with:portrayal
  98. [98]
    Billy Graham Library: Discover the Life, Legacy of America' s Pastor
    Mar 1, 2016 · Designed to reflect Billy Graham's journey from a humble farm boy to an international ambassador of God's love, the Billy Graham Library is ...
  99. [99]
    Billy Graham Library - Museum - Review - The New York Times
    the ...
  100. [100]
    State history museum exhibit on Billy Graham celebrates his life and ...
    Nov 5, 2015 · ... tapes that recorded him agreeing with Nixon's anti-Semitic comments. The BGEA's Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, which opened in 2007 and ...
  101. [101]
    Billy Graham's 'Missed Opportunities': A Response -
    Mar 1, 2018 · Did Billy Graham do all that he could in his time with us? Some argue that he had some missed opportunities throughout his life.
  102. [102]
    Billy Graham Gets State-of-the-Art Archive - Christianity Today
    A new research facility gathers the full documentary record of the evangelist's life work to make the case for his continued relevance.<|separator|>
  103. [103]
    A new Billy Graham archive opens on the late evangelist's birthday
    Nov 7, 2022 · The new two-story building, constructed with the latest preservation standards and environmental controls, cost $13 million. It unites all of ...Missing: construction | Show results with:construction
  104. [104]
    FAQs - Billy Graham Archive and Research Center
    The Billy Graham Archive & Research Center only accepts donations of materials related to Billy Graham and his team. All donations must be accompanied with an ...Missing: restrictions | Show results with:restrictions
  105. [105]
    New Billy Graham Archive Collections to Be Opened to the Public
    Mar 9, 2018 · The documents in both collections are closed until they are 30 years old; some documents have additional restrictions. The Billy Graham Center ...Missing: Library | Show results with:Library
  106. [106]
    Billy Graham archival material moving to Charlotte | AP News
    The late evangelist Billy Graham's archives are being transferred from Illinois to the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte.
  107. [107]
    Scholars Fear Franklin Graham Will Cut Off Access to Billy Graham ...
    Jun 4, 2019 · They worry that Franklin Graham may deny access to the archival materials to scholars and others who don't share his views.Missing: restrictions | Show results with:restrictions
  108. [108]
    Scholars fear Franklin Graham will cut off access to Billy Graham ...
    Jun 3, 2019 · They worry that Franklin Graham may deny access to the archival materials to scholars and others who don't share his views or who are unwilling ...Missing: criticisms | Show results with:criticisms
  109. [109]
    Billy Graham archives moving from Wheaton College to his N.C. library
    Apr 15, 2019 · “By taking the papers away from Wheaton, where access is open, Franklin Graham and the BGEA can now control access and can thus control the ...
  110. [110]
    Billy Graham Archives moving out of BGC - The Wheaton Record
    Apr 4, 2019 · The collections include documents, such as letters to presidents, that will not be available for public access until 30 years after their ...Missing: restrictions | Show results with:restrictions
  111. [111]
    Ground broken on $14M Billy Graham Center in south Charlotte
    Nov 24, 2020 · Finishing the interior will cost another $3 million to $4 million, Moseley said. Money to build the center “is from general donations, but the ...
  112. [112]
    An Inside Look at the Billy Graham Archive & Research Center
    Nov 21, 2022 · Over a million artifacts are housed in the state-of-the-art facility that has an advanced fire-suppression system. The centre is 30,000 square ...Missing: concerns | Show results with:concerns
  113. [113]
    Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to Open Research Center and ...
    Nov 2, 2022 · A 30,000-square-foot, $12 million archive and research center will open at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C. on Nov.<|separator|>