The whitest marble in the world comes from Sylacauga's quarries. Its beauty can be appreciated on the museum's facade and several marble sculptures that are on permanent exhibit, such as Harmony in White, by W. Craigger Brown. In addition, an information exhibit on the geological history and chemical composition of Sylacauga's marble (calcium carbonate).

Prior to its incorporation as a town in 1834, Sylacauga was home to Shawnee Indians, who came to this area from Ohio and became part of the Creek Confederacy. Recent archeological digs in Talladega County have uncovered artifacts of Indian, Spanish, and other European origins. Many are on display in the museum.

The museum houses memorabilia from four beloved native sons who have received international recognition in their professions: Jim Nabors' singing career began at Sylacauga High School where he was featured in numerous performances of the High School's Glee Club. He is also known to television viewers as Gomer Pyle, the bumbling gas station attendant on The Andy Griffith Show.

Lieutenant General (Retired) James W. Crysel's military career spanned thirty-three years. He was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal (the Army's highest peacetime award) and the Defense Superior Service Medal.

U.S. Congressman William F. Nichols served in the Alabama House of Representatives and the Alabama State Senate. He served as U.S. Congressman from 1967 until his death in December, 1988. Mr. Nichols was known as the "Friend of the Serviceman" for his legislative initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for military people.

Aljerald Powers, Sylacauga Historian known as "A. J. the walking, talking history book". He is credited for assisting several authors by providing information needed for completion of several books and publications, including Logging Railroads In Alabama, by Frank Lawson and Tannehill And The Growth Of The Alabama Iron Industry, by James R. Bennett, Secretary Of State. He has been a key figure in the archeology digs in Talladega County and is a member of the Talladega County Historical Society, the Alabama Historical Society, the Alabama Archeological Society, the Alabama Minerals and Lapidary Society, and the Society for the Preservation of Old Mills.

"Stars Fell on Alabama"
Mrs. Ann Hodges, an Oak Grove housewife, was struck by a meteorite in her own home on November 30, 1954. A replica of the meteorite is on display, along with written documentation about the incident, also recorded in the Guiness Book of Records as the only documented instance of a meteorite falling and hitting a living person.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of fine art, including metal and bronze sculptures and a growing collection of paintings. Taylor White's Aiken Fox Hunt is an example. Each year in October the museum presents an invitational Artist Selects Exhibit to showcase promising Alabama artists. The exhibiting artists are chosen by a recognized artist, who identifies the artist invitees for that year's exhibit. Other annual art shows are a Local Artists Show in November, Congressional Student Art Competition in May, Alternative Art Exhibit in August and temporary exhibits, which change monthly.

Photographs depicting Sylacauga life of years ago and a display of pioneer tools and furnishings, antique clothing, indigenous wildlife, and other historical items are also on exhibit.