When you think of Biltmore Forest the first thing that comes to mind is probably a sea of early 20th century wealthy white golfers. In this week’s edition of 52 Weeks, 52 Communities we’re sharing an Oral History from our archives that sheds light on the construction of Biltmore Forest by African American workers. Take a look
The Bent Creek Ranch was a hot vacation spot for equestrians from all over the country in the mid-twentieth century. The lodge and guest cabins provided a nice getaway from the hustle and bustle of modern life – a step back into “simpler times.” A postcard sent to a Nashville couple from the Bent Creek
We’re posting an addendum to our Instagram post on Arden thanks to the really insightful question posed by local writer Ami Worthen (@amiwhoa) in the comments. Our original post read, “The painting featured depicts “Struan” a home built in the Arden area in 1847 by Alexander Robertson, a wealthy rice planter from South Carolina who
I bought this silhouette of an unknown gentleman many years ago. It’s pasted onto what is known as a trade card. Trade cards were often distributed by businesses, in this case an artist’s business, as an early form of advertising. Trade cards, like postcards, have their ardent collectors. There are a few other trade cards
Several weeks ago I wrote about the Baraca & Philathea convention in Asheville in 1909. Many churches opened their doors to the conventioneers for various meetings. I recognized most of the church names, but was puzzled by one in particular: Ora Street Presbyterian. Do you know where Ora Street is located? I didn’t until I
Thursday, May 18, 2017 6:00–7:30 North Asheville Branch Library Refreshments will be served North Asheville residents are invited to talk with each other about what it was like growing up and living in North Asheville. Celebrate the history of your community by coming together to share personal stories and remembrances. Or sit and listen to
Please Join Us For Our Next Local History Program Title: “‘Mountain Scenery’–Discovering WNC from the 1850s, Asheville, Ancestors, and Immortality” Speaker: Elizabeth “Liz” Colton Date: Wednesday, April 26th Time: ***Evening Program 6:00-7:30 PM Henry Elliott Colton (1836-1892), was a naturalist, geologist and author. He was born in Fayetteville, NC and published his first, and most famous book









