Opened 1965

Shop and offices open without ticket

Ticket required for MESDA tour, open during operating hours

The Horton Museum Center is home to the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Named for long term Old Salem Director of Restoration, MESDA founder, and decorative arts research pioneer Frank Horton, the building is located at the south end of Main Street in the historic district. In addition to the MESDA, this building also houses a Store and the Old Salem Museums & Gardens Research Center and Library. The MESDA Auditorium, also located here, can be rented for special events or meetings.

The building was originally a Kroger grocery store but numerous additions and alterations (the most recent in 1994, when the size was effectively doubled) have changed it into a premier museum facility.