Visit the Missiles and More Museum on Topsail Island, North Carolina

The Topsail Island Cultural Arts Council formed in 1989 to create a recreational center and historical preservation area for the community of Topsail Island, North Carolina. Through a partnership with a local credit union, the old "Assembly Building" was purchased. During the latter years of World War II, the building was the site of a top secret Navy missile program. Known as Operation Bumblebee, the military program lasted from 1946 to 1948.

Missiles & More Museum now resides inside the walls of the Assembly Building, sharing Topsail Island's role in World War II with future generations. After the facility opened its' doors in 1997, the John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory shared formerly top secret documents relating to the Bumblebee Project with the museum. Included in the materials shared from the university are simulated missile testing and Camp Davis flight test videos. A new wing was added in 2005 to include historical artifacts and material from the community. The museum now houses a pirate exhibit, Native American section, natural history display, an interactive media center and an Osprey Aircraft display.

Operation Bumblebee

The United States Navy utilized a portion of Topsail Island for a secretive program testing guided missiles. The two year endeavor included the development and testing of the controlled ramjet engine. Knowledge and concepts stemming from the engine propelled the modern aspects of supersonic flight. Operation Bumblebee displays at the Missiles & More Museum include a movie made in the 1950's detailing the history of the military program, a Talos guided missile and an interactive museum kiosk.

Osprey Aircraft

The Osprey Aircraft exhibit depicts the design and development of the V-22 aircraft. The Osprey was the first tilt-rotor aircraft in the entire world. Modern versions of the aircraft often fly overhead while being tests at the nearby New River Air Station. Immerse yourself in World War II technology while participating in the interactive audio-visual tours of the plane and its' role in the history or aviation.

Camp Davis

Located adjacent to Topsail Island is the community of Holly Ridge, the home of Camp Davis. The U.S. Navy used the camp as a training center for antiaircraft equipment during World War II. Wartime artifacts and photos showcase the training activities and the soldier's experiences. During the Camp Davis years the population of the small town of Holly Ridge grew from a scan 28 residents to a 110,000. The technology designed and tested at the military camp aided in the development of the United States first guided missile systems.

Pirates

Colorful tales and local lore depict the plundering of pirates along the Cape Fear Coast. Blackbeard the most infamous of the pirates which sailed the area, attacking the inlets of Topsail Island. The pirate exhibit at the museum showcases the role of 10 pirates known to have sailed the local waterways from 1830 to 1720. According to local historians, Topsail got its' name from sea captains who, for the sake of survival, scanned the horizon for tall masts known as "Tops'ls" used by pirates. Early detection was key for merchant ships, who hoped to outrun the thieves.

Children's Area

The children's area holds a host of interactive exhibits and "touch areas. Experience the colorful array of the ocean's bounty when browsing the collections of seashells from around the world. Youngsters also have the opportunity to explore aircraft and pirate themed displays and structures.

Artifact Displays and Oral History

While the museum is not exceptionally large, it utilizes space wisely and makes good use of every inch of square footage. Visitors, both young and old will not be bored when walking from one section to the next. Missiles hang from the ceiling and walls, inviting you to run your hands across a smooth piece of history which helped the United States achieve victory during the second world war. Life-size glass cases hold World War II military uniforms and artifacts from Camp Davis.

An oral history section pertaining to island history offers videos of residents sharing their experiences with hurricanes which his the area, historic piers and fishing local waters. A portion of the museum houses old newspapers, which share the story behind the eight towers on Topsail Island. During the Operation Bumblebee years the military built the observation areas, which, according to old articles, have attracted couples seeking a semi-private space for a little cuddling.

Volunteer Opportunities, Membership and Rentals

The museum is a non-profit entity, and hosts multiple fundraisers throughout the year to help defray maintenance and utility costs. Membership drives allow fans of the museum to give a monetary donation to the facility. Museum volunteers can help with routine daily needs or help at special events or in the gift shop. The Jingle Bell Ball and Autumn with Topsail events are among the largest fundraising endeavors hosted by the Topsail Island Cultural Arts Council. The Assembly Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and can be rented for special events. The building holds a maximum of 250 people and is handicap accessible. Rental of the building includes use of the kitchen, dance floor, banquet tables and chairs.