A Sweet Taste of History: Exploring Tony’s Ice Cream at Gaston County Museum in Dallas, NC
Mark your calendar—March 8 marks the opening of "The Old-Fashioned Way: The Tony's Ice Cream Story" at the Gaston County Museum in Dallas. This captivating exhibit showcases the 100-year history of Tony's Ice Cream, a Gaston County institution. It is the perfect catalyst for a spring outing and discover the story behind this Gastonia legacy of milkshakes and cones.
Step inside the museum and uncover the journey of the Coletta and Jannetta families, immigrants from Italy and Scotland, who built Tony's into a thriving business through ingenuity, hard work, and family values. A documentary traces their path to success, while interactive displays bring the ice cream shop's history to life. Have you ever wondered about the most popular flavor or the history of the classic ice cream scoop? You'll find the answers here, with plenty of hands-on fun for kids and adults alike. The exhibit runs through July 2026.
While Tony's exhibit is the star of the season, there's even more to see at the Gaston County Museum. "The Ties That Bind" exhibit offers a deep dive into Gaston County's rich textile heritage, sharing the stories of cotton mills and the hardworking people who fueled the region's economy. The Hoffman Hotel Rooms transport visitors to the 1800s with period furnishings and hands-on experiences, like tightening a rope bed or trying on Victorian-era clothing. Outside, the Sculpture Garden features works by local artists, and the Depot Gallery—set in a restored 1903 train depot—hosts rotating art exhibits. Carriage enthusiasts will appreciate the Daniel Stowe Carriage House, home to North Carolina's largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles, some dating back to the 1840s.
The museum's Collections & Archives boast over 25,000 artifacts, with a public Research Room available for those eager to delve further into Gaston County's past.
After exploring the museum, visit Tony's Ice Cream to taste the legacy firsthand. Indulge in a classic banana split, sip on a thick milkshake, or enjoy an old-fashioned cone—each bite is a delicious nod to the story you just experienced.
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Located in Dallas, NC, the Gaston County Museum offers free admission. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 10 am - 5 pm, and Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm. Plan your visit at www.gastoncountymuseum.org and get ready to explore the history, art, and flavors that define Gaston County.
