![Smithsonian Celebrated Sculpture Gardens](/media/userfiles/subsite_255/images/fast-facts/sculptures.jpg)
Smithsonian Celebrated Sculpture Gardens
Caldwell County has the most extensive collection of permanent public outdoor sculptures per capita in the U.S. Our annual Sculpture Celebration is the largest in the South.
Even as Caldwell Country rapidly diversifies, the furniture industry remains a vital part of our manufacturing base. Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area is still number one in the state and world for furniture manufacturing.
In terms of existing talent, experience, infrastructure and resources, this is the best place to locate or expand a wood products company. Additionally, The North Carolina State University Industrial Extension Service, home of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP) affiliate, has joined forces with statewide partners to develop an E3 (Economy, Energy and the Environment) initiative for the sustainability of the sector.