HC Magazine July 2015 by High Country Press

Volume 10 • Issue 6 July 2015

Grandfather Mountain Forever Protected

Dan'l Boone Inn • Our Museums • Ronnie Wilson • Postcards July 2015

High Country Magazine

DI A N N E DAVA N T & A S S O C I AT E S EXCELLENCE BY DESIGN SINCE 1979

B A N N E R E L K , NC 8 28 .8 98 . 988 7 P O RT S A I N T L U C I E , FL 7 72 .3 44 .3 1 90 W W W. DAVA N T- I N T E R I O R S . C O M B

High Country Magazine

July 2015

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High Country Magazine

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

High Country Magazine

People’s Choice

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

Magnificent acreage tract along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina’s High Country

irectly accessible off the Blue Ridge Parkway and Phillips Gap Road, this incredible 269 +- acre tract is indeed a very unique and rare find. A short 0.2 mile, well maintained road leads from the property’s Parkway entrance to open meadows with vast and stunning, long range, panoramic views of the mountains of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia to include Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain, Mount Jefferson, Rich Mountain, Roan Mountain, and White Top Mountain. Such breathtaking vistas usually require much longer and steeper ascents in remote areas of the High Country of North Carolina, further emphasizing the uniqueness and rarity of this beautiful land. Located just a 10 minute scenic drive north along the Parkway from 4-lane, US Highway 421 in Deep Gap, the acreage includes elevations up to almost 3,700 feet. These elevations are among Ashe County’s highest on privately owned land along the Parkway and provide numerous potential building sites. This conveniently located property in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina is only 20 minutes from Boone and West Jefferson, 30 minutes from Blowing Rock and North Wilkesboro, 1 hour 20 minutes from Winston-Salem, 1 hour 40 minutes from Greensboro, and 1 hour 50 minutes from Charlotte. Multiple opportunities exist for this magnificent mountain acreage tract to include a residential estate, a multi-functional retreat, a picturesque horse or cattle farm, or a valuable land investment for the future. Sunrises and sunsets along with nighttime shows created by the lights of cities and towns in valleys below greet anyone fortunate enough to have a presence on this very secluded and special place. The first time offering is very realistically priced at $2,200,000.

Weber, Hodges & Godwin Commercial Real Estate Services, LLC Dan Godwin // Debbie Godwin

Office: 828.264.0019

153 Crossing Way, Suite 102, Boone, NC 28607 High Country Magazine 5 dan@weberhodgesgodwin.comJuly//2015 www.weberhodgesgodwin.com

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

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High Country Magazine

C O N T E N T S

22 Evolution of a Natural Wonder

Celebrate the past, present and future of the one of the most cherished natural gems of the southeastern United States. Find out what’s in store for Grandfather Mountain in the wake of new leadership and monumental changes that have occurred in the past several years, including the establishment of its own stewardship foundation.

52 Historical Content

Take a trip back in time and learn about the local museums that lay out the history of the High Country from prehistoric to recent times. Follow the life of the old Linville Depot of the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad and delve into the histories of the area’s longstanding communities.

62 Precious Commodities

Local craftsman and watch expert Ronnie Wilson of The Stone Jewelers celebrates 50 years of business in the High Country this summer after building a career doing what he loves best. Get to know him and what’s behind his passion for finding, repairing, designing and creating one-of-a-kind pieces for friends in the community.

74 A Family Affair

Few things in life can top the comforts of home, but dinner at one of the area’s most historic restaurants makes that list. Dan’l Boone Inn has been serving up home-style southern cuisine in the High Country for decades, and it has been owned and operated by a family of employees for generations.

52 74

92 Collectable Correspondence

In the midst of a digital age, where texting and online communication abound, two High Country residents prefer to revel in the simple pleasures that come from sending and receiving messages by mail. Find out why friends Web Alexander and David Harwood enjoy collecting post cards and jump into the world of deltiology.

on the cover Our cover shot comes from the files of Hugh Morton. His son Jim says that Mr. Morton often finished out rolls of film about to be developed with random family pictures. For this picture, Jim says Mr. Morton set the timer on his camera and ran over and sat next to him for what turned out to be this classic photograph. 8

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READER SERVICES ABOUT US

The first High Country Press newspaper was published on May 5, 2005, and the first issue of High Country Magazine went to press in fall 2005. In March of 2012 the newspaper made the transformation to an online newspaper at our new website: www.HCPress.com. Our new “webpaper” is still packed with information that we present and package in easy-to-read formats with visually appealing layouts. Our magazine represents our shared love of our history, our landscape and our people. It celebrates our pioneers, our lifestyles, our differences and the remarkable advantages we enjoy living in the mountains. Our guiding principles are twofold: quality journalism makes a difference and customer care at every level is of the greatest importance. Our offices are located in downtown Boone, and our doors are always open to welcome visitors.

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

Our magazine is a wonderful way for businesses to advertise to our readers. Our magazines tend to stay around for a long time, on coffee tables and bed stands, and shared with family and friends. To find out about advertising, call our offices at 828264-2262.

BACK ISSUES

Back issues of our magazines are available from our office for $5 per issue. Some issues are already sold out and are no longer available.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography and page reprints are available for purchase. For sizing, prices and usage terms, please call our office. Some photos may not be available and some restrictions may apply.

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Writers and photographers may send queries and samples to the editor at hcmag@highcountrypress.com.

High Country Press/Magazine P.O. Box 152 1600 Highway 105 Boone, NC 28607 www.hcpress.com info@highcountrypress.com 828-264-2262

CARLTON GALLERY Celebrating 33Years

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From a Textural Point of View Andrew Braitman and Toni Carlton

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Linville Village Suite 9, Linville, NC 828.733.1529 • www.triciawilsonlaw.com July 2015

High Country Magazine

FRO M T HE PUB L ISH ER

A Publication Of High Country Press Publications Editor & Publisher Ken Ketchie Art Director Debbie Carter

Grandfather Mountain on the Cover

Ken Ketchie

he black and white photo we used on our cover this month reminds me of when I first got into the newspaper business back in the late 70’s. Then there were pretty much just only black and white newspapers with hardly any color on their pages, unless an advertiser paid for it. I guess you could say newspapers were the last holdout of that black and white era of the 1950’s. There was no color in newspapers because it was a tiresome endeavor in those dinosaur days. First up at the printing plant was “burning plates” from the pasted together layout sheets that the editorial and production department brought to the pressroom. Each layout page was placed in a special camera apparatus where a metal plate would be made with etched in images of the layout pages. On the printing press, these plates would then allow ink to be transferred to a rubber blanket that transfer ink to paper as it rolled through the press at a high rate of speed. The black ink required one plate to be made – fairly simple. But additional colors would require additional plates to be made, and then lined up perfectly on the press. So if you wanted to run a color picture, you would need four plates for the four basic ink colors: cyan, magenta, yellow and black, known as CMYK. But even before that process could get started, you first had to get a “color separation” made of the picture you wanted to use. That meant sending the picture off to a lab to have the separation made, which could take a week or so and cost about $200. Long story short, this was an expensive and arduous process to put a color photo on the front page of a newspaper. It’s easy to see why newspapers were usually all black and white (of course, as the pun goes, ‘read’ all over), but the nice thing about a color separation was once you had one, you could use it over and over. Grandfather Mountain founder Hugh Morton, who was an excellent photographer in his own right, knew this. A promoting genius, he figured if he could make color separations of pictures of his mountain available to regional newspapers, then they would probably use them to bring color to their front pages. And, of course, they did. Hugh Morton had lots color separations made of Grandfather Mountain that he made available to publications for free, and in the summer and especially fall seasons, you’d see newspapers across the South with a color picture of Grandfather Mountain on their front pages. I can’t even begin to tell you the amount of free advertising that brought for Grandfather Mountain. Something I’m sure Mr. Morton was aware of! As for me, I thought it was brilliant. That was the beginning of my great admiration for Hugh Morton’s promotional genius. Our cover story this month features Hugh Morton’s Grandfather Mountain as it stands today. Although Mr. Morton is no longer with us, he surely would be please to know that his beloved mountain is being well taken care of. And I’m sure if he has a chance we’ll be receiving a publicity photo from him showing just that - that his mountain is in good hands. 10

High Country Magazine

July 2015

Contributing Writers Jessica Isaacs Jesse Wood Bernadette Cahill Randy Johnson Allison West Megan Northcote Contributing Photographers Frederica Georgia Jim Morton Sarah Weiffenbach Advertising Director Jeffrey Green

SHARE WITH FRIENDS You can share our magazine with friends that are out of town by sending them to our website. Just click on “Magazine” in the Menu Bar and that will take you to our online magazine where you can flip through an issue online - just like you would with a printed copy.

www.HCPress.com HIGH COUNTRY MAGAZINE P.O. Box 152, Boone, NC 28607 828-264-2262 Follow our magazine online where each issue is presented in a flip-through format. Check it out at:

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July 2015

High Country Magazine

Calendarof Events JULY 2015

doc and rosa lee watson music fest 'n sugar grove, historic cove creek school, July 10-11

9-12

Grandfather Mountain 60th Annual Highland Games, MacRae Meadows, 828-733-2013

Banner Elk Concerts: Soul Benefactor, Tate-Evans Park, 828-898-8395

Parsons Dance, ASU Schaefer Center, 828-262-4046

Music on the Lawn: Soul Benefactor, The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-298-3466

Music in the Valle: The Sheets Family Band, Valle Crucis Community Park, 828-963-9239

Riverwalk Concerts in Newland: The JJL Band, Riverwalk Park and Bandshell, 828-457-2736

Concerts on the Lawn: Sound Traveler, Steve and Ruth, The Jones House, Boone, 828-268-6280

10-11

Doc and Rosa Lee Watson Music Fest ‘N Sugar Grove, Historic Cove Creek School, 828-297-2200

10-12

Cartoon Network’s Scooby-Doo and Shaggy, Tweetsie Railroad, 800-526-5740

11-19

Ensemble Stage Presents “Killing Time,” Blowing Rock, 828-414-1844

Brian Stokes Mitchell and Winston-Salem Symphony, ASU Schaefer Center, 828-262-4046

Eastern Festival Orchestra, Gerard Schwarz, Awadagin Pratt, ASU Schaefer Center, 828-262-4046

15-19

“Lend Me a Tenor,” Lees-McRae Summer Theatre, 828-898-8709

Banner Elk Concerts: Jocassee, Wilson Braswell, Hope Harvey, Tate-Evans Park, 828-898-8395

The Beach Boys, ASU Holmes Convocation Center, 828-262-4046

18-26

K-9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs, Tweetsie Railroad, 800-526-5740

Mountain Home Music: The Sheets Family Band and Canote Brothers, Harvest House Performing Arts, 828-964-3392

Vintage Valle Music: The Dollar Bros, Sunday Singers, Junaluska Gospel Choir, Baird’s Creek Presbyterian Church, 828-297-4089

21-26

Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show: Hunter and Jumper Division. Also Jul. 29-Aug. 2. Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, 828-295-4700

Music on the Lawn: Soul Purpose, The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-298-3466

Lisa Fischer and Grand Baton, ASU Schaefer Center, 828-262-4046

Music in the Valle: Steph Stewart & the Boyfriends, Valle Crucis Community Park, 828-963-9239

Banner Elk Concerts: Buick Mackane, Tate-Evans Park, 828-898-8395

Riverwalk Concerts in Newland: The Swing Set, Riverwalk Park and Bandshell, 828-457-2736

Symphony by the Lake, Chetola Resort, 828-295-7851

Music on the Lawn: The Nautical Wheelers, The Best Cellar, Blowing Rock, 828-298-3466

Concerts on the Lawn: Jazzfest, The Jones House, Boone, 828-268-6280

David Grisman Sextet with Bryan Sutton Band, ASU Schaefer Center, 828-262-4046

Music in the Valle: Maybe, Maybe Not, Valle Crucis Community Park, 828-963-9239

BBQ Boot Camp, Sugar Mountain Resort, 828-898-4521

Concerts on the Lawn: Hard Cider, Claybank, The Jones House, Boone, 828-268-6280

24-26

17-19

Fine Art and Master Crafts Festival, Banner Elk, 828-898-5605

Ensemble Stage Presents “And a Child Shall Lead,” Blowing Rock, 828-414-1844

St. Mary Tour of Homes, Blowing Rock, 828-295-7323

Art in the Park, Downtown Blowing Rock, 828-295-7851

Banner Elk Concerts: The Sharkadelics, Tate-Evans Park, 828-898-8395

High Country Magazine

July 2015

DON’T FORGET

EVENTS

Appalachian Summer G A L L E R Y

Enjoy the beautiful campus of Appalachian State University in Boone this season and open your mind to a world of exciting art, music, film and theater at this year’s An Appalachian Summer Festival. The month of July is packed with theatre and musical performances, screenings of world renowned films, lunch and learn workshops and countless opportunities to meet and get to know visiting artists, directors, jurors and experts. This universitybased arts festival incorporates both educational experiences and entertainment events. Call 828-262-4046 or go online to www.appsummer.org to buy tickets and see a complete line-up of performances.

F R A M E M A K E R S

Through July

New Views | gregory smith

July 1 - july 11

Symphony by the Lake Lights, Camera, Music! Get your tickets now to the High Country’s annual can’t-miss event of the summer — Symphony by the Lake at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock on July 24, which will feature music from iconic movies performed by Symphony of the Mountains. Make your reservation to enjoy one of many fine-dining options with Chetola, pack your own picnic or order one from the Blowing Rock Market or Cheeseburger Grill. Shuttles will be provided to and from the Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway. Call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at 828-295-7851 or visit www.symphonybythelake.com for tickets.

July 24th

speakiNg figur atiVely

jane jaskevich, tim turner and lisa joerling July 15 - july 25

Friday Wine Flights - July 10 & July 24, 5-6:30 PM Saturday Coffee Talks | June - August | 10 to noon artcellaronline.com | 828-898-5175 | info@artcellaronline.com 920 Shawneehaw Avenue, Hwy. 184, Banner Elk July 2015

High Country Magazine

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Ashe County Arts Council Presents the 46th Annual Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention

he Ashe County Arts Council is excited to present the 46th annual Ashe County Bluegrass and Old Time Fiddlers Convention. The bluegrass and old time music competition for adults and youth will take place July 24 and 25 at Ashe County Park, in Jefferson, North Carolina. Admission is $5 Friday only, $10 Saturday only or $15 for both. Tickets can be purchased on site or by calling the Ashe County Arts Council at 336-846-2787 starting June 24. Camping will be available on site and will be available starting on Thursday, July 23 at 6:00pm. The spaces will be available first come first serve. Camping fees vary and not included in convention admission ticket. The Fiddlers Convention is a celebration and showcase of the musical talent and heritage of the high country of North Carolina. Saturday will be the competition day with categories including youth and adult individual instruments, folk song, dance and more. Band competitions

will be in the evening hours. Friday night will feature an Appalachian Barn Dance with bands Crooked Road Ramblers and Strictly Strings. The emcees for 2015 includes musician Dale Morris. Judges will be Kyle Dean Smith, Ken Landreth and Tom Mylet. John Turner will be the dance judge. Musicians will register the day of the competition. Performance slots will be allocated on a firstcome-first-serve basis. Competition winners in adult categories will be awarded cash prizes. Full competition rules, schedules, and awards can be found at www.ashefiddlersconvention.org. For more information please call 336-846-2787.

Avery County Special Olympics Needs Support

or about 15 to 20 years, athletes with Avery County Special Olympics haven’t attended the state games because of the lack of funds, and the organization is trying to remedy that this year. Avery County Special Olympics is looking to raise $9,561 in order to help fund travel and lodging costs at the state games well as increase the athletic opportunities available to special-needs individuals in the county. More than 90 athletes are involved in ACSO. “We are trying to offer the special needs athletes a variety of opportunities to stay active and be active for free and to get out and do something,” said Barb Holdcroft, an ACSO coach in aquatics, alpine and softball. “But, like everything, it takes time and money.” Prior to a few years ago, ACSO focused on the track-and-field and bocce events at the annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, but according to a release from the organization, “change is in the air.” Now athletes are also offered the chance to participate in skiing, swimming, softball and, hopefully, in golf and unified sports. In prior years, the bocce team has been talented enough to compete at the state 14

High Country Magazine

July 2015

All 10 of the Avery Aquanuts qualified for the West Regional competition but were unable to attend.

More than 90 athletes are involved in Avery County Special Olympics. These atheletes are celebrating their victories at the Winter Games. games, but travel and lodging expenses prevented that from happening. Most recently, all 10 of the Avery Aquanuts qualified for the West Regional competition and to attend the summer games, but they were also unable to do so. Recent goals include taking both bocce ball teams to Yellow Mountain qualifier and attend the state tournament in the fall; take aquatics team and swimmers to regional qualifier and summer games in 2016; take track and field athletes to qualifiers and state games; host a local games event for Avery County at Lees-McRae College; and increase and golf program. (The new softball team just received a generous donation of used equipment from Lees-McRae College, which is required to update its equipment in a timely basis by the NCAA.) To participate, athletes donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to pay for practices, transportation, uniforms and coach, and the organization is attempting to raise more than $9,000 in local contributions to help fund these goals. Financial support, which is tax deductible, is much needed to achieve the worthwhile and ambitious goals of Avery County Special Olympics. Yearly contributions are recognized at three levels: Spirit - $1 to $350; Prime - $351 to $750; Pinnacle - $751 and up. Donors are recognized with certificates and, if they wish, they will be recognized on the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page and in its newsletter. In addition to financial contributions and equipment donations, coaches and volunteers are also needed. Many of the current sports have only one certified coach, and only a few qualified volunteers. Interested parties are urged to contact Avery County Special Olympic coordinators Jan Christian (jan28652@gmail.com) at 828-733-9316 or Jim Ciociola (jlcio1952@aol.com) at 828-733-9066.

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High Country Magazine

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Speckled Trout Cafe Celebrates 30 Years With More To Go O

to achieve the kind of atmosphere that he ne local restaurateur is entering his likes to enjoy. 30th year in business this summer “I thought about what I like when I go by reflecting on achieving his greatest out on the town and go eat somewhere,” accomplishments and looking forward to Bartlett said. “I like a personal touch and I what the future holds for him. like somebody to care, and I do.” A native of Birmingham, Alabama, His daughter, Sara, was born seven David Bartlett moved from Greensboro, years later, and he said raising her in his North Carolina to Boone in 1976 to atrestaurant was perhaps the most rewardtend college at Appalachian State Uniing part of the whole experience. versity. He loved the weather and he “Anyone who knows the restaurant loved the people, so he decided to call business knows it doesn’t always go the High Country home. smooth, but you do what you can do. She This aspiring chef had always wanted got exposure to the real world,” he said. to open his own place, so he set out to Kyle Wilcox and David Barlette “She taught me as much as I tried to teach make his dream a reality after finishing school and working at several local restaurants and at the Raintree Coun- her. Now she’s getting ready to graduate next year from the aeronautical try Club in Charlotte. He opened the Speckled Trout café and oyster bar on engineering school at Embry-Riddle with a degree in designing drones and she’s going to be a second lieutenant in the Air Force.” Blowing Rock’s Main Street during Memorial Day Weekend, 1986. A chef at heart, Bartlett still feels right at home in the kitchen. Over the “I was just a cook that became a chef and wanted to own my own restaurant. By the time I was 28 years old, I did it. I had no idea what I was get- years, he’s also learned to enjoy sharing his knowledge and experience with other aspiring chefs. ting into, but it was a labor of love and I still enjoy doing it.” “I still like the cooking part of it, but I also like the teaching. I have He designed the restaurant to be the kind of place that he would like to visit, built a menu based on the kind of things he likes to eat and worked had many employees,” Bartlett said. “I would like to think that I’ve not only

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

The Speckled Trout Cafe in Blowing Rock taught a lot of them about the restaurant world, but about life.” As he looks toward the future, Bartlett is even training one of his employees, Kyle Wilcox, to do his job. In Wilcox, a 21-year-old from Lenoir, Bartlett sees a lot of potential and a lot of things that remind him of his own passion for the industry. “I spent the last 10-15 years looking for the right person to assume this role, and then I found Kyle,” Bartlett said. “He has natural cooking ability and, with a little direction from me, he plays it by ear — that’s how I cook, too. I never cook with a recipe — you just have to feel it. “I’m training Kyle now and he’s under my tutelage. We have the same motivation and the same drive, so I decided to present him with this opportunity. He’s my protégé and, in a few years, he will take over my legacy.” As he reflects on the past and prepares for the future, Bartlett said he’s glad he has been able to share his life and his experience with friends and customers in the community through the Speckled Trout. “I have done a lot of reflection over the last couple of years. I wouldn’t be here right now if it weren’t for the fact that so many people have supported me,” he said. “I’ve truly been blessed and have a lot to be thankful for. I look back and see the smiles on their faces and I know I’ve made a difference. “I am thankful and have been fortunate to meet other people that make a difference in this world, too, and they let me into that world. Life is an education.” The Speckled Trout is located at 922 Main Street on the corner of U.S. Highway 221 in Blowing Rock. For hours and the menu, visit www.thespeckledtroutcafe.com or call Bartlett at 828-295-9819.

Honor and purpose don’t end with retirement. In fact, they become more important than ever. That’s why I chose Well•Spring. I had the privilege of leading our men and women in a variety of assignments, including Corps Commander, Commandant of Cadets at West Point, and in Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and Germany. When my wife Marty and I chose Well•Spring it would be our thirty-third home! Here we found a welcoming, active, and caring community, perfectly suited for a comfortable and productive retirement.

www.well-spring.org 4100 Well Spring Dr., Greensboro, NC 27410 (800) 547-5387 • (336) 545-5400 A member of Well•Spring Services, Inc.

CARF/CCAC ACCREDITED SINCE 2003

LIEUTENANT GENERAL. US ARMY, RETIRED

Walter F. Ulmer, Jr. Resident since 2010

July 2015

High Country Magazine

mountain

echoes

Dine Out in a Hotel? Really? Yes, Really.

ne of Blowing Rock’s best kept restaurant secrets, The Chestnut Grille, is tucked away inside the lobby of the Green Park Inn Hotel, Blowing Rock’s only National Historic Register hotel property. Originally named the Laurel Room, with a reputation for expensive and somewhat stodgy fare, the hotel remodeled its restaurant two years ago, and renamed it to honor the American Chestnut once prevalent in the Appalachian forests and now virtually extinct. The restaurant is a corporate member of the American Chestnut Foundation and recently received five restoration 1.0 seeds from the Foundation, three of which now full blown seedlings planted on the hotel grounds. Along with a remodeled restaurant space came a remodeled menu. Gone are the foie gras and the heavy cream sauces, and in is a more casual menu, along with more moderate pricing. Embracing fresh and local the restaurant maintains its own on site vegetable garden, and

has for years, establishing something of a local trend. “Every year our garden gets a little bigger, and a little better” says General Manager, Lorry Mulhern. Reengineering the public’s perception of what it means to dine inside of a 125 year old historic hotel, however, has been something of a challenge for Mulhern. And, while restaurants located within hotels have traditionally experienced difficulty in gaining traction with the public at large, more and more best kept hotel restaurant secrets are coming to light, with some in metropolitan areas becoming the hottest ticket in town, recently. After a year that included a few culinary management missteps, this Spring Mulhern hired a new chef who spent the first 17 years of his career progressing up the culinary ladder of four and five diamond properties throughout southern California before relocating East in 2013. Most recently the restaurant’s new chef served as Sous Chef at a restaurant in Asheville that specializes in gluten free fare and his Chestnut

Grille menu is not only gluten free friendly but strikingly creative. From the creamy Parmesan Shrimp Mac and Cheese (this is not your grandma’s mac and cheese) to the Crispy Braised Pork with Roasted Carrots, Caramelized Onions and Bacon Jus, to the Pan Seared Local North Carolina Trout with Chimichurri Sauce every menu item makes one wish you could order all of them. And throughout the summer diners can do just that on Thursday evenings which is “Tapa Night”, with small plate portions of most of the restaurant’s menu items available. As to the difficulty in enticing diners to venture inside of a hotel to enjoy a meal Mulhern likes to remind the public that “not only is our new chef’s fare mouthwatering but, as a hotel, we have plenty of easy, free parking”, a sometimes scarce commodity around town. “Try us out. Eating is believing”. Serving dinner Sunday – Thursday 6:00-9:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 6:00 – 9:30pm.

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High Country Magazine

Grandfather M ountain

Stewardship on a New Foundation

by Randy Johnson

ost grandfathers are pretty set in their ways and don't often head off in new directions. A lot of people assume the same thing about our other Grandfather, that rocky patriarch of the High Country, Grandfather Mountain. Even if you know the old guy well, he's changed so much in the last half decade or so that it's definitely time to take a new look. Of course summer's always a great time to visit the mountain and get in touch, or back in touch, with a sensational vacation destination that's also the most ecologically significant summit in Eastern America. The old man is also a timely topic now because a new leader has taken the helm at the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. New executive director andLeesMcRae College graduate Jesse Pope is the perfect symbol of how much the mountain is changing, even if on the surface things look a lot like they always have. Therein lies some confusion. "We are entering a new era but a lot of people misunderstand it," Pope says. "One of our biggest challenges is explaining to people the difference between the state park and the non-profit," the latter being the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation created in 2010. "Often people think we are a national park. Trying to dispel the misconceptions can be difficult."

Jesse Pope

"We are entering a new era but a lot of people misunderstand it." Jesse Pope, new Director at Grandfather Mountain 22

High Country Magazine

July 2015

Short And Sweet Let's sort this out. Before 2006, when Grandfather Mountain's owner Hugh Morton passed away, Grandfather was basically one thing -- a big privately-owned mountain where a road reached a rocky peak capped by the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Along the way visitors enjoyed a great Nature Museum, environmental habitats for viewing native wildlife, picnic areas and more. And by the way, the mountain also had the Blue Ridge Parkway running around its flank, a unit of the national park system. By 2008 Morton's heirs were preparing for the challenges of the future. Another private attraction called Chimney Rock, not unlike Grandfather, was sold as a state park. In that case the state bought the entire attraction, and today it continues to be operated by the former managers as a state park concession. The Mortons took a similar approach and in 2009 sold the

vast bulk of the mountain to the state, but in this case they kept the attraction. The state bought approximately 2,600 acres which was already protected by conservation easements, including the mountain's highest peaks, where a system of awesome trails is now the

prime attraction of a state park founded in 2009. That's how Grandfather's split personality started confusing people. It's now free to hike into the state park, just as it is to drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway -- both are public land. But the Grandfather Mountain attraction is not the state park or public property, but instead is now owned and operated as a 501(c)(3) public charity by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, which was formed by the Morton family to continue the tradition of responsible stewardship of the mountain. "Another thing that might make it difficult to recognize the change in ownership and management of the mountain," says Kellen Short, the mountain's director of marketing and communications, "is that nothing really changed here in the park. We've made improvements but the bridge and animal habitats are still there, the core things that people came to expect from Grandfather Mountain,

July 2015

High Country Magazine

Grandfather Mountain is a patchwork of preservation. The decades-long battle over the Blue Ridge Parkway route gave the National Park Service ownership of land above US 221. In the 1990s, The Nature Conservancy purchased conservation easements to “the backcountry” (which later became Grandfather Mountain State Park) and controversy over impending development of “the Wilmor tract” also led to Nature Conservancy ownership of the green parcels beside NC 105. remain as before. The visitor experience here hasn't changed much." All of this explains why one of Pope's main missions "and a significant part of my job" will be reaching out to the public and civic organizations locally and across the state and nation to help people understand the mountain's new identity -- and its challenges. During thirteen years of employment Pope has done almost every job there

is to do at Grandfather Mountain, which gives him extensive experience in every aspect of organizational operations. However it is his training as an environmental educator that inspires him to share this insight: "The service we provide is special and unique, exactly what you might expect at one of the most biologically diverse mountains on Earth."

Selling the Future While it's still sinking into the public consciousness that the Grandfather Mountain attraction is not a state park, and that admission still must be charged to fund operation, even by a non-profit, Pope is setting off to explore defraying costs and raising funds via donations and grants -- methods uniquely available to non-profits. Those are new

Grandfather’s environmental habitat animal exhibits are a popular stop for school groups. The opportunity to see live animals in a natural setting helps the mountain’s naturalists expand on the classroom lessons of visiting teachers. 24

High Country Magazine

July 2015

In 2009, Crae Morton, speaking in MacRae Meadows, led the mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purchase by the state. Also on hand were Mike Leonard (left to right), who helped negotiate the deal, Bill Ross, Secretary of the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Lewis Ledford, of North Carolina state parks, and at right, Governor Mike Easley and wife Mary. opportunities for the mountain, but they too may need some explaining. After all, most people are used to seeing the mountain as a profit-making enterprise run until 2006 by a true promotional genius, Hugh Morton. Nevertheless, a variety of new initiatives are emerging that illustrate the methods and potential of the mountain's new "economic model."

The mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nature Museum contains a wealth of exhibits.

Field Trip Scholarship Any attraction markets itself to groups and Grandfather does too, including efforts to entice school field trips. Like many state and national parks, the mountain has curriculum based educational experiences to help teachers enhance the impact of classroom lessons with a dose of real nature. Indeed, back in the day, it was Pope's belief that he could entice school groups in the off season that helped make his naturalist program a success. But today the mountain's new mission actually permits helping to fund the trips and not just be on the receiving end. Just this year Grandfather launched a Field Trip Scholarship Fund that helps bring students to the mountain. "Thanks to generous donors we have funds

An underwater look at otters playing in their watery habitat. July 2015

High Country Magazine

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Jim Morton captured this photo of rainbow during the Highland Games in 2008 and it was sent out as a press release to news outlets. The photograph was picked up by pixcetera.com where it was voted as picture of the week, garnering thousands of views. need to raise some money to develop the exhibit." Pope doesn't foresee reintroducing elk on the mountain but "most likely we will convert the deer habitat into an elk habitat." Pope explains that elk are being reintroduced in so many places in the Appalachians that "the timing is perfect to bring elk into our habitats." Timely interest in an exhibit like that also fits with plans to expand educational That worthwhile effort illustrates activities and interpretive signing at the another opportunity the Stewardship habitats. The new signs would shift Foundation is developing -- the ability from the current presentation of "fun facts" to deeper to fund special projects with "Our mission statement is to insight into the animals' lives, a d e d i c a t e d inspire conservation of the shift that's already donations. One natural world by helping our occurring, assures such project would be the visitors explore, understand, Pope. Recently, the park's addition of a and value the wonders of naturalist staff has cultural history Grandfather Mountain.' And been charged with exhibit on the second floor of we live that. We have a strategic doing the animal -the new Top Shop plan that's set out by our board enrichments a newer term building. Another and implemented by our staff. for "feedings" special target for reflects donors are the We have a clear vision of what that fact that animal habitats, we want to do and where we are the Grandfather long where a variety trying to go." ago discontinued of annual animal "adoptions" and worthwhile behind-the- informal sessions where visitors could scenes programs make supporting the toss snacks to the animals. Now animal meals are much more natural, and exhibit easy and fun. Pope revealed that the mountain can include packaging that emulates is "developing a master plan for the an animal's relationship with prey. Of habitats and one thing that's been talked course guests are invited to enjoy these about is the possibility of bringing elk sessions which virtually guarantee a to Grandfather Mountain. We're in chance to see habitat habitués even if the very early phases of that and we'd they're being shy.

to offset some of the expenses of field trips," Pope says, "especially for title one schools or those with financial need." The program got its start, as many good things do, with a visit to the mountain, and honors the memory of Nathan Pribble from Apex, North Carolina, who died in 2014 at age 18.

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High Country Magazine

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This serene view from the deck of Jim Morton's home is among the best perspectives for viewing and photographing clouds that drift past Grandfather Mountain. For Pope that comes under the heading "less entertainment, more education." That does not mean that education isn't also entertaining. Just ask the Avery and Watauga County students who won the recent Christopher Columbus Science Award and approached Grandfather about installing their scholarshipwinning science project at the mountain. "Thousands of teams submitted science proposals," says Pope, "then 300 teams were

chosen to compete, and they won a $25,000 scholarship and as a result, invited to the White House." The kids' exhibit popularized the plight of honey bees and will be part of a new Honey Bee Haven getting underway at the mountain. "These kids are amazing, very dedicated to saving the honey bees," Pope says. "Working with them has been really special. They even got White House security clearance to see

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High Country Magazine

Grandfather is widely known for the iconic animals of its environmental habitats, including deer, eagles, cougars, bears, and otters. Plans are underway to make elk part of the mix.

Taking to Grandfatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trails is a long popular way to explore the spectacular backcountry of the mountain. Here a group of hikers scale the Grandfather Trail as it climbs ladders on MacRae Peak.

High Country Magazine

July 2015

the President's bees. When everyone was packing up to leave, the secret service arrived to take them to see the White House hive." The emphasis may be education, but "we want people to have a good time," Pope maintains. Based on its long history as a "private attraction," Grandfather has its own distinct interpretive style, says Pope, "a component of customer service and hospitality that we really blend into the experience here, versus a national park experience where that component isn't as important. For us, educational impact is intrinsically tied to the success of the park. The reality is that we're selfsustaining, and we really rely on people having a great time, coming back, and telling their friends about Grandfather Mountain." For Pope, the new Grandfather is all about that focus on environmental stewardship, an emerging mission forged in part by his own work at the mountain, along with the like-minded evolution of Morton family members and other "public members" of the board of directors of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Says Pope, "our mission statement is to inspire conservation of the natural world by helping our visitors explore, understand, and value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain.' And we live that. We have a strategic plan that's set out by our board and implemented by our staff. We have a clear vision of what we want to do and where we are trying to go." There's evidence of that in many places, including at the entrance gate. The old 1970s obelisk entrance sign is gone, thanks to significant funding from Stewardship Foundation board chairman Jim Morton. The new sign bears a telltale logo. There's no

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High Country Magazine

"We've been a leader in numerous conservation initiatives, including saving the hemlocks on our property and on the state park property. We have an active invasive species management. We probably don't do enough to make people aware of the things we do to protect the natural resources here." Jesse Pope Swinging Bridge in sight. Instead, a wind-flagged spruce clings to a high mountain crag.

Behind the Scenes "Good stewardship requires investment. We do a lot of things behind the scenes," Pope explains. "We've been a leader in numerous conservation initiatives, including saving the hemlocks on our property and on the state park property. We have an active invasive species management program working with a lot of partners, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. We probably don't do enough to make people aware of the things we do to protect the natural resources here." It may be difficult for many private sector business people to grasp, even those in the tourism industry, but, Pope says, "Our community is a little bit different. We have our human community as well as the natural community. I want to be sure we're doing the best we can to take care of Grandfather Mountain while being a good member of the High Country community." That's a lot taller order than many people imagine, especially when you realize that as the area's top-rated attraction, Grandfather Mountain underpins the success of the entire High Country economy. 30

High Country Magazine

July 2015

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High Country Magazine

The Top Shop

The old Top Shop was demolished and materials were recycled to build the new one.

High Country Magazine

July 2015

The new Top Shop was opened in the summer of 2010. Built using recycled materials from the old Top Shop building, which was built in the 1950s, the 6,000-square-foot, threestory Top Shop was designed to disappear into the landscape of the mountain. The new building is hardly visible from Highway 105 and the Blue Ridge Parkway in the wintertime and not visible at all during the other three seasons. The building was constructed using the latest construction techniques to improve efficiency and withstand the hurricane force winds that regularly pummel the building. Another element of design incorporates space for communication and scientific research equipment. New this year is the Mile High Growth Chart with a platform positioned at the magic elevation of exactly one mile above sea level. When measured and photographed with the new growth chart, folks will be one mile plus their height tall.

It Takes a Community Pope's plans include increasing outreach to the greater Grandfather community. He's busy meeting with local schools, colleges, clubs, other non-profits, civic organizations "to network and get to know each other and hopefully collaborate where we can." A new volunteer program has people buzzing with excitement. "We have a great volunteer program, over 40 volunteers," Pope says. They're easy to spot in their yellow shirts, orienting visitors, helping people get the most out of their experience. "That's an important new way we're trying to better connect with the community." Times have changed. Concludes Pope, "A lot of people knew Hugh Morton and knew Grandfather Mountain was in good hands. Hugh Morton was the steward of Grandfather Mountain and we didn't worry about it. Today it takes a community to accomplish this." Almost sounds like a family, doesn't it? What family wouldn't take care of their granddad? As Jesse Pope says, "There's always something new to learn about your grandfather." 

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Get To Know Your Grandfather Don’t miss Grandfather Mountain State Park’s official summer event on August 22 The park’s GO GREEN Day will be held at Foscoe Community Park from 11 am to 4 and will include workshops, interpretive nature programs (including stream ecology clinics in the adjacent Watauga River), a program on the history of Grandfather Mountain. ••••••• Randy Johnson launched the 1970s backcountry program that reclaimed Grandfather Mountain’s overgrown trails and built new paths to the peaks. In early 2016, the University of North Carolina Press is publishing his new book, Grandfather Mountain: The History and Guide to an Appalachian Icon. ••••••• Photos courtesy of Grandfather Mountain

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High Country Magazine

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July 2015

Located about halfway up the Grandfather Mountain roadway, the Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum features excellent exhibits, a theater, souvenirs, a Grade A restaurant, and a bronze statue of Mildred the Bear with cubs. Popular animal habitats are a short walk away. Photos by Jim Morton

Beyond The Bridge

hile Grandfather Mountain is known primarily for its outdoor assets, including the spectacular Mile High Swinging Bridge, the Nature Museum constructed in 1990 is another not-so-hidden gem. The museum houses an exquisite collection of gemstones and minerals, including the largest amethyst ever found in North America The dazzling violet stone glints alongside collections of gold, emeralds, rubies and more. The museum also incudes expertly carved life-size specimens of native bird species created by Bill Chrisman and handmade wax models of delicate wildflowers, berries and mushrooms crafted by the late Paul Marchand. During his lifetime, Marchand was the world’s leading creator of artificial plant life, and Grandfather Mountain holds the second-largest collection of his work, next to his hometown museum in Buffalo, N.Y. Guests also can view displays about the mountain’s habitat animals and other exhibits explaining the natural history of the surrounding area.

Plus, visitors to the mountain can stop by the museum to observe current weather conditions, including temperature and wind speed, from equipment mounted atop the Mile High Swinging Bridge. There’s also an auditorium that presents brief nature videos filmed on Grandfather Mountain. It currently airs “Expeditions with Patrick McMillan,” an award-winning nature program that focused an episode on Grandfather Mountain in 2014. Also housed in the Nature Museum building is a gift shop featuring dozens of locally made products and a restaurant, Mildred’s Grill, offering quick bites for famished families. Arrive early to claim the best seats adjacent to the picture windows where birds frequent feeders throughout the year. The Nature Museum is located adjacent to the Animal Habitats, where black bears, cougars, deer, otters and eagles live in large environmental habitats. Its also next to the Fudge Shop and Butterfly Garden, making it the epicenter of activity for the busy park.

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July 2015

High Country Magazine

Jim Morton Keeps Watch Over Grandfather

Mountain

quickly became one of the im Morton, now 64, was â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want future generations to experience most popular destinations crawling across the Mile High Swinging Bridge before Grandfather Mountain as we have. Protecting in the North Carolina hills. In 1967 as part of a hair covered his head. Grandfather Mountain is an awesome honor, program to repopulate the Less than a year after Jim black bear in the Blue Ridge, was born, his father, Hugh and we just hope to be worthy of it.â&#x20AC;? Hugh acquired two bears Morton, inherited about from the Atlanta zoo for 4,000 acres of Grandfather release on the mountain. One of those Mountain from his grandfather, Hugh was to become the beloved Mildred, MacRae, a developer and industrialist. who became known as the bear that The land had been in the family since didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know she was a bear. When set the 1880s. Story goes that nobody else free Mildred did not adapt well to the in the family wanted this particular wild but instead caused considerable tract because of its ruggedness and excitement in nearby communities, so inaccessibility. But Hugh Morton she was soon captured and returned had a love for the mountain, and to her holding cage on Grandfather he was convinced that Grandfather Mountain. By the summer of 1968 Mountain could be spared from heavy Mildred was starring in popular bear development by becoming a successful shows three times daily, and in 1973 travel attraction. a spacious environmental habitat was After inheriting the land Hugh built for her so that visitors could immediately set to work, widening the see and photograph Mildred and her narrow gravel road that went halfway family in natural settings. Today the to the summit into two lanes and taking mountain's animal habitat exhibits it all the way to the top. On September feature bears, eagles, otters, deer and 1, 1952, he dedicated the Mile High cougars, with planning still in the Swinging Bridge, which, as the name early stage to replace the deer with implies, is a mile high above sea level. Jim in his Davy Crockett outfit at age 4 elk in the future. Thanks to the extraordinary beauty with his dad at the Half Moon overlook on During the 1950s and 60s the of the mountain and Hugh's tireless Morton family resided in Wilmington promotion, Grandfather Mountain Grandfather Mountain. 36

High Country Magazine

July 2015

during school months but spent the summer months in Linville, where their lives revolved around Grandfather Mountain. “The mountain has just always been a part of our family’s life, and it consumed my Dad,” recalls Jim Morton. “When I was 6 years old I earned my first dollar by picking up litter along the road with my brother and sister. I started putting on bumper stickers when I was 10, and began selling tickets when I was 14. When I was 25 I jumped off the mountain on a hang glider. I've had more great experiences on this mountain than I can possibly remember.” “For my entire life I have lived my summers in the mountains, so I really have never had to live in the heat. Now that I’m grown and can decide for myself where I want to live, I’m afraid that the only place I can tolerate is up here in the cool High Country,” admits Jim. After he finished high school at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va., in 1969, Jim graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1973 with a double major in U.S. History and Political Science. In 1974 and 1975 he worked for his father as general manager of Grandfather Mountain, but early in 1976 he concluded that his job was becoming disruptive to his family life. “I realized that I got along much better with my Dad when I wasn’t working for him, so I resigned.” In the summer of 1977 Jim launched a brief photojournalism career when he was hired as editor of a regional magazine called Mountain Living. While working on a woolly worm forecast for the fall issue of the quarterly publication, he became keenly aware of the folk forecaster's dilemma of not knowing exactly which woolly worm should be used for forecasting. “Why not have a contest?” Jim wondered. Then a resident of Banner Elk, he persuaded members of the small community to join together in hosting caterpillar races at an annual Woolly Worm Festival, which has since grown into one of the largest autumn festivals in western North Carolina. Each year the champion woolly worm is examined for its coloring, and an official festival forecast for winter is rendered by 7'2” basketball legend Tommy Burleson. Co-sponsored by the Avery County Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Banner Elk, this year's 38th Annual Woolly Worm Festival will take place in downtown Banner Elk on October 17 and 18, 2015. In 1984 Hugh Morton needed a hiking trail built on the western slopes of Grandfather, and son Jim accepted the challenge to do the job. His search for a suitable working partner took almost a year, and with persistence Jim succeeded in persuading his friend Kinney Baughman to join him in the task of creating the Profile Trail. “For the first two years we worked mostly by ourselves, then for the next two years we usually had another man or two helping us. Often we had volunteers come out to help. We are especially proud that Doc Watson and his grandson Richard assisted us in moving several large rocks for some stepping stones we named 'Merle's Milestones' in memory of Doc's son Merle.” Today the Profile Trail is the most hiked trail in Grandfather Mountain State Park. In 1996 another new trail was needed on Grandfather Mountain to connect the two upper parking areas, and once again the job fell to Jim. With two assistants he constructed the .4 mile Bridge Trail in approximately three months, thereby providing valuable parking options for busy days in the park. “I’ve never done anything more satisfying than building trail,” says Jim. “It's mighty tough work, but at the end of a day you are always rewarded by the sight of what you have just done. Also I really enjoy the constant creative process of designing a trail as you go along.” In 1998 Jim was offered a different creative job as the Grandfather Mountain director of marketing and information. In this capacity he helped grow the mountain's digital footprint, contributing greatly to the wide circulation of photographs by Hugh Morton. Never quite at home in an office environment, Jim retired from his promotional duties

A highlight of Jim's childhood was being carried across the Mile High Swinging Bridge on his fifth birthday by Governor Luther H. Hodges.

Hugh Morton took this photo of Jim and his older brother Hugh with their dog Tucky on the road to Linville Bluffs near the present Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum.

Banner Elk Area Chamber of Commerce president Don Helmbold presented Jim Morton with an award as the chamber's 1996 Man of the Year. July 2015

High Country Magazine

“As far as I'm concerned, Julia Morton is the nice lady who saved Grandfather Mountain.” in 2002 and resumed his career as an obscure photographer and artist. One of the privileges Jim has enjoyed through his association with Grandfather Mountain is that he has always been entrusted with a gate key. Throughout the years he has made frequent nighttime trips to the solitude of the Swinging Bridge, an experience which he described as “always spiritual”. Jim was atop the mountain at midnight on December 31, 1999, when the public was fearful of a Y2K power grid failure. “Of course all the lights in the distance stayed on,” Jim laughed. “That was probably my most suspenseful trip to the top.” Another great privilege Jim has enjoyed has been an introduction to many celebrities who have been brought to Grandfather Mountain by his late father Hugh. “It's hard to believe that I've met so many famous people. I know how Forrest Gump must have felt.” A few of the better known hands Jim has shaken on the mountain include Billy Graham, Bob Hope, Jerry Lewis, Don Shula, John David Crow, Sec. Elizabeth Dole, Roy Clark, Oral Roberts, Larry Gatlin, Lord and Lady Wedgwood, Gen. William Westmoreland, Clifford Roberts, Mack Brown, Bob Griese, Eddie LeBaron, Charlie Justice, Wally Moon, Ray Harm, Roy Acuff, Dean Smith, Larry Brown, Charlie Scott, Roy Williams, Lefty Driesell, Phil Ford, Tommy Burleson, David Thompson, the Johnny Cash family, Charles Kuralt, Arthur Smith, Doc Watson, John Loudermilk, William Friday, Sen. John Edwards, Kelly McGillis, Tim O'Brien, Sen. Sam J. Ervin Jr., Gov. Luther H. Hodges, Gov. Terry Sanford, Gov. Jim Holshouser, Gov. Jim Hunt, the Duchess of Sutherland, and almost every major pioneer in the sport of hang gliding. Hugh Morton was a legendary promoter and custodian of the mountain up until the time of his death in 2006. The Morton family was then faced with what to do next. In their hearts they wanted to carry on Hugh's legacy and the torch of protecting the mountain from development, as well as encouraging the public to enjoy this environmental treasure. However the issue of inheriting so much land, including the 54-year-old attraction, had its own unique set of complexities. “It is still hard to believe,” Jim says, “but we somehow came up with a plan that our entire family could agree on. We managed to do everything we did without a fight. I think it was a case of similar priorities.” “After we sold the backcountry to the state, we used that money to redeem all of the outstanding shares of stock in Grandfather Mountain Inc. Basically we bought ourselves out. My Mom was by far our largest shareholder, but she refused to take one penny for her shares. She left everything in the company treasury, which has made a big difference in helping us over these past few years,” Jim said. “As far as I'm concerned, Julia Morton is the nice lady who saved Grandfather Mountain.” Julia’s generosity helped to fund completion of the new building at the top, where proceeds from concessions go towards the educational components of the attraction. The new Top Shop, Jim said, is far better suited than its predecessor to handle the “punishment” of mile high weather. Also the nearby Swinging Bridge, which was rebuilt fifteen years ago, is much stronger and more durable than the original span. On November 1, 2009, Grandfather Mountain Inc. became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Inc. According to Jim Morton, “this was about all we knew to do to put the mountain in a position to be sustained. Now that the park is owned by 38

High Country Magazine

July 2015

Hugh had Jim strike a pose on Linville Peak in 1956

After posing for a gag photo with Mildred the Bear in the summer of 1969, Jim Morton (far right) was privileged to join UNC basketball coaches Bill Guthridge, Larry Brown and Dean Smith for 18 holes at Grandfather Golf and Country Club. Partnering with Coach Guthridge, Jim lost many balls.

Winter photo of Profile Rock seen from Profile Trail

Summer Sensations! ✹ Wine Tastings ✹ Live Music Saturdays & Sundays ✹ Special Events ✹ Festivals

Hugh Morton acquired Mildred the Bear in 1967 as part of a program to repopulate the black bear in the Blue Ridge. The bear ended up finding a wonderful home and Hugh Morton, the photographer, found one of his best camera subjects that became beloved by a generation of fans. a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, we are exempt from federal and state corporate income taxes, and we no longer have shareholders desiring a dividend. Now everything we make can be reinvested in the mountain and our mission.” Contrary to popular perceptions, Jim said it’s been a challenge to keep the attraction open year round and profitable. The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation employs 39 people full time and has about 85 employees during the peak season. “We could close down in winter and do better financially, but staying open year round helps us keep great employees,” Jim said, adding “We are very proud of our staff. Our foundation is on a mission to promote conservation, and our employees are doing a terrific job of delivering our message.” “We want future generations to experience Grandfather Mountain as we have,” insisted Morton. “Whatever we do we try to do first class with a long range picture in perspective. Protecting Grandfather Mountain is an awesome honor, and we just hope to be worthy of it.” 

Jim Morton sitting on "Doc's Rock" beside Shanty Springs Branch on the Profile Trail on June 21, 2003. Photo by Teresa Lee

9557 Linville Falls Hwy. • 828.765.1400 Open 7 Days Weekly • 12-6pm linvillefallswinery.com US 221 north of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 317 July 2015

High Country Magazine

Harris Prevost

‘Hugh’s Right-Hand Man’ By Jesse Wood

t’s fitting that Harris Prevost, “He reminded me that I was on who was Hugh Morton’s rightprobation several times many years hand man for some 30 years, later,” Prevost said, laughing. found his way to Grandfather Four years later, the members Mountain because of advice from of the country club bought out his own grandfather: “If you Morton and his partner, and work for a good man, you’ll learn Prevost worked in marketing and a whole lot more than you ever public relations for the tourist could out of a book.” attraction full time until 1992, After serving in the U.S. Army when he became Vice President in the ‘60s, Prevost was offered a of Operations. With leadership half interest in a recording studio turnover in the past two decades, called World Sounds Studio in Prevost has run the mountain Fayetteville. While Harris didn’t Harris Prevost began working for Hugh Morton on January during multiple time periods. play any instruments and had no He was essentially Hugh 15, 1973 in accounting at GFCO. Today he serves as Vice background in recording music, Morton’s right hand man until President of Operations at Grandfather Mountain he was young and figured, “sure, Morton passed away in 2006. I could do that.” “I think I knew Mr. Morton from the business perspective One day in the early ‘70s, he came home from work earlier probably better than anybody. My office was next to his for about than usual and turned on the television, which happened to show 30 years,” Prevost said. “I knew him really well and knew exactly an interview with Hugh Morton, the founder of Grandfather how he wanted the mountain run. I tried to do that so he could Mountain’s tourist attraction. Morton, at the time, was stumping do what he wanted to do without having to worry about how the to be the next governor of North Carolina. mountain is operating.” “I remember what my grandfather told me [as I was watching Mr. Morton, of course, had much more going on than the Morton on TV] and I just really wanted to work for that man,” travel attraction. He was a prolific and talented photographer. He Prevost said. ran for governor at one time and worked as campaign manager So, he wrote a letter to Mr. for another. He helped draft the Morton, which is how Prevost Mountain Ridge Protection Act and always addressed his beloved boss. also fought the National Park Service, Morton responded that no positions preventing them from building the were available and invited Prevost to Blue Ridge Parkway, with a tunnel the mountain if he was ever in the at the highest elevation, across High Country. A few months later, Grandfather. Prevost, who had a background in Harris represented Grandfather accounting, dropped by, and as luck Mountain and Hugh Morton on the would have it, an accounting position boards of numerous organizations, happened to have just opened up. both tourism related or civic based, At this time, Morton also owned a including Appalachian Regional development company with another Healthcare System, High Country fellow building condominiums Host, Southern Highland Attractions Harris Prevost on the right with Hugh Morton, and homes for Grandfather Golf Association, Blue Ridge Parkway center, and Crae Morton on the left in 2006 & Country Club. It was with this Association, N.C. Mountain Resources company that Prevost worked as Commission, N.C. Travel Association an accountant for about five years. Then, he split his time 50/50 and more. as a marketing and public relations specialist for the club and “He had a number of organizations that he was very civically the tourist attraction. Before Morton moved him into his new involved in and everybody wanted, I guess, everyone wanted a position at the request of Prevost, Morton said, “You don’t quite piece of him,” Prevost said. “He couldn’t do all of those.” have the background for it, but I’ll give you a chance. But you are Morton was definitely a mentor for Prevost, who was in his on probation.” late 20’s when he came to work for him. 40

High Country Magazine

July 2015

LOUNGE LINE! Join our Lounge Party on Thursday July 23rd and Friday July 24th Bring in a friend for Bellinis and Bites and see our models with the spectacular line

The Dande Lion,

Inc.

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10-5 • Sunday: 12-4

Shoppes of Tynecastle • 4501 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC

828-898-3566 www.DandeLionStyles.com

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“From what I expected [regarding what] my grandfather told me, Mr. Morton was everything and more. I certainly did learn a lot from him,” Prevost said. “I remember getting upset at something and writing a letter and showing it to Mr. Morton. He said, ‘Put it in a drawer and look at it three days later.’ I looked at it later and I am glad I didn’t send it. I learned a whole lot from him. He was awfully good to me.” While Harris, who is now in his early 70’s, wasn’t around Grandfather Mountain when Morton created the attraction in 1952 with the erection of the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge or when Morton brought in the sweet Mildred the Bear, he’s seen the mountain evolve over the years. For example, he saw the Morton family protect Grandfather Mountain for generations to come with The Nature Conservancy easements on the entire property and with the state’s purchase of the backcountry in 2008. Most recently, he witnessed Jesse Pope, a naturalist at Grandfather Mountain, become executive director in May after an exhaustive national search. “I like the direction we are going in. We are much more engaged with our guests and a lot of that has to do with Jesse. We have a naturalist program and we didn’t have that for a long time,” Prevost said. “The goal is to engage with guests and give interesting talks and answer questions. We try to personally connect with as many guests as we can to answer questions and give them a better experience and also let them take home a new appreciation for Grandfather Mountain and nature itself.” 

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“I think I knew Mr. Morton from the business perspective probably better than anybody. My office was next to his for about 30 years.”

UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU Introducing Our New

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“The goal is to engage with guests and give them a better experience and also let them take home a new appreciation for Grandfather Mountain and nature itself.” July 2015

High Country Magazine

Dine Out!

Summer Dining Guide

High Country Magazine

July 2015

BEECH MOUNTAIN BREWING CO. beech mountain. When you think of Beech Mountain, skiing always comes to mind. But Beech Mountain has plenty to do in the summer as well with lift rides, mountain biking, a brewery and a skybar at an elevation of 5506 feet. Plus, when it's hot everywhere else, it's always cool atop Eastern America's Highest Town. The Beech Mountain Brewing Co. is open this summer to service mountain bikers and summer patrons! The brewery is located in the ski village and is the place to sample an exciting lineup of beers born from the finest ingredients and crafted with an amazing attention to detail. The brewery was completely remodeled last summer and has quickly become one of the resort’s most popular attractions! Beech Mountain also has a one-of-a-kind amenity for guests – a skybar providing food and beverage service at the top of the mountain. This newly-constructed facility has been named 5506', paying tribute to the elevation that gives us the title of highest ski area in Eastern America. The skybar is equally popular with mountain bikers, hikers and visitors. 5506' provides food and drinks – plus restrooms – and is open most weekends from June through October. Be sure to snap a few panoramic photos of the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. n 800-438-2093. www.beechmountainresort.com. See ad on page 48

BOONE BAGELRY BOONE. Boone’s oldest bagel shop serves 17 types of freshly baked bagels and hundreds of other menu items. Boone Bagelry is a full-service restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch all day. Patio dining is available, and Boone Bagelry also offers eat in, take out or delivery options. Now with two locations to serve you. Original Location - 516 West King Street. Second location called Boone Bagelry's Water Café at the 105 Water Wheel by Studio West Apartents - 125 Graduate Lane. n 828.262-5585 or 828-262-1600. www. bonebagelry.com. See ad on page 50

Canyons Blowing Rock. Located just off of the scenic, winding highway 321 in

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN Casual Mountain Dining Under New Culinary Management in 2015

FEATURING MUsIc oN ThE VERANdA ALL sUMMER Every Sunday from 5 - 8 PM

NEW!

“TAVERN” TUESDAY A Burger and a Beer for $10.00

“TApA” ThURSDAY

Try Small “Tapa” Portions of many of our Menu Items

Wednesday Wine Down 50% Off All Wine Bottles

www.greenparkinn.com | 828.414.9230 9329 Valley Boulevard, Blowing Rock July 2015

High Country Magazine

SUMMER DINING GUIDE

menchies frozen yogurt

$3.00 Mondays Double Discount Tuesdays 1/2 Price Kids 13 & Under Wednesdays 1760 blowing rock road boone, nc 28607 828.386.1765 (Across from Lowes)

tripadvisor

Blowing Rock, this historic restaurant and bar is well known all over the High Country for its spectacular and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, its scrumptious southwestern choices and unique takes on classic American food or dishes. All dishes on the menu are freshly prepared in house with the finest ingredients available. Canyons in Blowing Rock regularly offers a wide variety of seasonally fresh items, so ask about the fantastic nightly specials in addition to the daily menu selections. Every Sunday, enjoy a delicious brunch accompanied by live jazz music. Canyons also offers a diverse selection of domestic and imported wines and a large selection of beers chosen to complement the items on the menu. Just ask a member of the friendly staff for a recommendation, or try something new. n 828-295-7661. www.CanyonsBR.com. See ad on page 50

CASA RUSTICA BOONE. Casa Rustica is breathing new life into the Boone Golf Club and the restaurant’s catering operation with a new venture at the Fairway Café and Venue. Not only will the venue be open to the public during normal lunch hours and for golfers through the evening, Casa Rustica owner Rick Pedroni has created a new space for the community to hold special events – from weddings and corporate gatherings to parties and dinner-theatre nights. “We’re dusting it off and putting new life into [the Fairway Café],” Pedroni said. “[The golf course] has a lot of history, a lot of people, believe it or not, in the community met here, wed here and had parties here.” Along with cosmetic renovations and revamping the kitchen to accommodate public lunches, food and drink for the golfers, special events and the catering home base, Pedroni hired Michael Foreman, who is an ac-

EAT CROW EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE EAT PIE

Sandwiches

(Served on our homemade bread)

Feed All Regardless of Means REAL. GOOD. FOOD. “Wall Street Journal Says It’s a ‘Must-Stop’ ”

Trip Advisor Review

The F.A.R.M. Cafe is revolutionary and delicious! Yelp Review

617 W. King St., Boone 828.386.1000 Monday - Friday 11:00 am until 2:00 pm www.farmcafe.org 44

High Country Magazine

July 2015

Pies • Cakes Shepherd’s Pie Steak & Ale Pie Chicken Pot Pie English Specialties Catering (On Request)

Serving Dinner Twice Monthly Call or Check our Website for Dates & Menu

828.963.8228 www.eatcrownc.com

Fabulous British Chef/Owner

Dominic& Meryle Geraghty

EAT CAKE EAT CAKE EAT CAKE EAT CAKE EAT CAKE EAT CAKE

Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm 9872 Hwy. 105 S. in Foscoe (across from Mountain Lumber)

Delicious Espresso & Coffee Drinks Homemade Baked Goods Breakfast, Lunch & Soup Items Cozy Mountain Setting Free WIFI

3616 Mitchell Ave., Suite 1 Linville, NC • 828-733-9333 Mon-Fri 7am-3pm • Sat & Sun 8am-3pm

claimed culinary specialist behind Blowing Rock establishments: Gideon Ridge Inn, Bistro Roca and the New Public House and Hotel. The Fairway Café and Venue features a diverse menu with the following themes: Southern BBQ, High Country, Low Country, Traditional American, Italian, Mexican and an array of appetizers. Groups can request plates off the menu or a private buffet. Fairway Café, which can accommodate about 140 people (inside and outside), is open to the public for lunch. Call 828-264-0233 or click to www.crcateringco.com to reserve the space for special events or for catering at the club or onsite. n 828-262-5128. www.casarustica1981. com. See ad on page 47

CHESTNUT GRILLE AT GREEN PARK INN BLOWING ROCK. Taking local and sustainable to new heights, the Chestnut Grille restaurant maintains its own 1/3 acre garden on site, which supplies the kitchen with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs throughout the summer and fall seasons. We offer contemporary American fare that’s unique, yet familiar, in a warm, and casual setting. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free guests will find the menu, and our chef very accommodating. We offer an extensive and thoughtful wine list along with a selection of seasonal and local craft beers. Located just inside the Green Park Inn. Listed on the National Historic Register. Patio dining is offered seasonally. Live piano music in our lobby Friday and Saturday nights, year round, and live music on the Veranda, seasonally. n 828-414-9230. www.greenparkinn.com. See ad on page 43

DIVIDE TAVERN & RESTAURANT BLOWING ROCK. Located in the lobby of the Historic Green Park Inn, the Divide Tavern sits directly astride the Eastern Continental Divide. Long a gathering place for Captains of Industry, Heads of State, and celebrities from authors to actors, the Tavern offers unique pub fare, as well as chef designed pub classics. Experience a less formal dining alternative while still enjoying delicious fare, all set in the ambiance of a bygone era. Local, craft and draft beers, seasonal and specialty cocktails offer guests a tempting twist alongside classic cocktails. We also offer an impressive selection of wine by the glass, or the bottle. Enjoy live Sunday music on the veranda (seasonally) and live piano in the lobby Friday and Saturday nights, year round. n 825-414.9230. www.greenparkinn.com. See ad on page 43

Bob Timberlake

Bonﬁre Nights Jazz Night Oyster & Shrimp “Knight”

Tim Knight’s Famous Fried Oysters or Shrimp

Steak on the Lake Serving Breakfast daily. Dinner served Thursdays - Saturdays through May 27; nightly after May 27.

EAT CROW BANNER ELK. Eat Crow is a wonderful little cafe specializing in fresh baked, delicious goods including a large variety of baked pies and cakes. These delectables are offered by the slice, or you have the option to order a whole one to take home and enjoy. We also offer fresh

828-295-5505 | www.Chetola.com July 2015

High Country Magazine

WE’RE SERIOUS ABOUT GOOD GRUB AAA FOUR DIAMOND RATING NINE YEARS RUNNING

YEARS

The Eseeola Lodge

AND STILL DOIN’ IT. BLOWING ROCK, NC • 828-963-7400 RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

O U T D O O R D I N I N G • B AR / LO U N G E • C AT ER I N G • PR I VAT E FU N C T I O NS

Chef and Owner David Bartlett Is Celebrating His 30th Year In Blowing Rock

It’s Always Trout Season In Blowing Rock!

At The Corner of Main Street and Hwy. 221

World Famous for His Trout Dishes Prepared 5 Different Ways

SERVING A VARIETY OF FRESH SEAFOOD, LOCAL MOUNTAIN TROUT… Served 5 different ways, ANGUS BEEF, SARA’S BABY BACK RIBS

With A Wide Variety of Made Fresh Daily Side Dishes

AS WELL AS THESE SPECIALITIES Paul Tate Filet Mignon • Sara’s Baby Back Ribs Fresh Gulf Oysters & Shrimp • Seafood Dishes And, of Course, Much More! Serving Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week 46

David Bartlett’s

SPECKLED TROUT CAFE Always Fresh Seafood

High Country Magazine

& Oyster Bar

July 2015

We also have

Breakfast Buffet on Weekends... Enjoy Our Air-Conditioned Dining Room All youPatio can eat or Our COVERED 9am-Noon At the Corner of Main St and Hwy 221 • 295-9819 ••On$7.95 Facebook

MAIN STREET BLOWING ROCK, NC

SPECKLED Open for Dinner TROUT 5:00-9:00 Always Fresh

made sandwiches at lunch time that can not be compared to any other “sandwich shop” in the area.   Since we know life can be very hectic, for your convenience we prepare whole meals and fresh soups daily that are ready for you to take home and heat up for your family. These entrees vary daily. We are always creating something delicious! All sandwiches are served on farmhouse or whole wheat bread. Choices of sides include fresh fruit, firecracker coleslaw or chips. We are open Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and are located near Foscoe on Hwy. 105 between Boone and Banner Elk. n 828963-8228. See ad on page 44

& Oyster Bar

linville. Guests enjoy breakfast and dinner daily as part of their accommodations package, but all High Country visitors are welcome to enjoy the finest cuisine. Spend a leisurely morning with us, or grab a quick bite on your way out for the day. Either way, an outstanding breakfast awaits you each morning in our dining room. Then enjoy lunch at the Grill Room in the Linville Golf Club, where resort casual wear is appropriate for daytime meals. For the evening meal, select your choice of seven meticulously prepared entrees crafted by Chef Patrick Maisonhaute at the helm of your culinary experience. The menu changes daily, and also offers an extraordinary seafood buffet every Thursday evening with seatings at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Reservations are required, and gentlemen are required to wear a coat for the evening meal. n 800-742-6717. www.eseeola.com. See ad on page 49

F.A.R.M. CAFÉ boone. In May 2012, F.A.R.M. Cafe opened its doors with our mission to build a healthy and inclusive community by providing high quality & delicious meals produced from local sources, served in a restaurant where everybody eats, regardless of means. Our meals are nutritious and delicious! Some meals include items with meat, some are vegetarian and/or vegan. Our menu changes daily and is served by our volunteers

NighT NEW! Tuesday Fish Camp

including Oysters at the Bar

and staff. F.A.R.M. Cafe tries to have something for everybody each day, so we also always have gluten free and dairy free items. Our daily menu can be viewed at www.farmcafe.org/menu or on Facebook or Twitter. We are located in beautiful Downtown Boone. n 828-386.1000. www.farmcafe.org. See ad on page 44

Gamekeeper Blowing Rock. You haven’t fully experienced the region until you’ve dined at The Gamekeeper. It’s a true gourmet restaurant, with the perfect blend of upscale elegance and simple mountain charm. The Gamekeeper is famous for Southern favorites - ultimate in comfort food - prepared with creativity and originality, offered through an evolving seasonal menu that blends the traditional with the exotic, satisfying both the meat lover and the vegetarian. Housed in a 1950s stone cottage, The Gamekeeper is an upscale restaurant that offers an eclectic mix of Southern foods and mountain cuisine, offering a selection of unique meat dishes including mountain trout, buffalo rib eye, ostrich, duck and beef tenderloin. The friendly staff literally waits on you hand and foot, assuring that you’ll leave happy and satisfied. The restaurant is located off Shulls Mill Road near Yonahlossee Resort. n 828-963-7400. www.Gamekeeper-NC.com. See ad on page 46

R USTI Q U E

SERVING DINNER/LUNCH/SUNDAY BRUNCH Full Bar • Outside Dining Plenty of Parking • Extensive Wine Selection

Reservations Recommended

Tues-Thurs: 5:30pm-9:30pm • Fri & Sat: 5:30pm-10pm • Sun: 11am-2:30pm LUNCH HOURS: Tues-Sat: 11:30am - 2:30pm

340 Sunset Drive • Blowing Rock, NC 828-295-9474 • RustiqueBlowingRock.com

THE LOCAL BOONE. A place to enjoy a fresh meal, crafted in-house from local High Country ingredients. Serving traditional southern favorites, she-crab soup and shrimp & grits, as well as grass-fed beef burgers, specialty sandwiches, unique tacos, wood-fired flatbreads & pizzas, quinoa bowls, steaks, seafood and plenty of gluten-free and vegan choices. The Local also features 20 taps, serving mostly local and regional beers, as well as national favorites. At The Local you can enjoy drinks & appetizers while relaxing on comfortable leather couches in the lounge, play a game of billiards, or watch your favorite sports event on large flat screen TVs. The Local is also July 2015

High Country Magazine

SUMMER DINING GUIDE the place to be for Live music performances on Friday and Saturday nights. Experience Local. Open Daily 11am. Sunday Brunch 11am-4pm. n 828266-2179. www.TheLocalBoone.com. See ad on page 51

menchies frozen yogurt Boone. Self-serve frozen yogurt with over 100 rotating flavors and more than 70 rotating toppings! After making your perfect mix, the yogurt is weighed and paid for by the ounce. Menchie’s uses only high quality frozen yogurt and offers nonfat, low carb, non-dairy, no sugar added, and gluten-free soft serve options. Celebrate a special Birthday at Menchies! We offer three party packages full of fun & smiles. n 828-386-1765. See ad on page 44

Red Onion Café Boone. Established in 1985 as one of the classic restaurants in Boone

NC, the Red Onion Café opens daily at 11am and serves continuously to hungry guests well into the evening. The Red Onion Café has created its niche in the High Country for more than 30 years by offering customers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere and an extensive menu at affordable prices. The café has something for every member of the family, including burgers, sandwiches, wraps, pizza, pasta, fish, steak and delicious homemade desserts. Look for weekly dinner specials and the kid’s menu items as well. The Red Onion Café also offers several of the region’s top beer and wines to compliment any meal as well as friendly staff on hand to assist with your choices from the extensive menu. The outside patio is perfect for a comfortable outdoor lunch or for a cozy dinner on warm evenings. n 828-264-5470. www.theredonioncafe.com. See ad on page 51

BEECH MOUNTAIN BREWING CO.

The Beech Mountain Brewing Co. is open this summer, to service mountain bikers and summer patrons!

Specializing in scratch-made baked goods, Specializing in scratch-made bakeddesserts, goods, desserts, salads, salads, quiches,quiches, soups&&sandwiches...and sandwiches...and sides. soups sides. Itemsalso alsobybybulk bulksizes sizesand and party platters. Items platters. Private lunches & small parties. Private lunches & small parties. Beer/wine/mimosas.....noliquor. liquor. Beer/wine/mimosas...no Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch Breakfast & Lunch Opening May 15

Lunch-Wed-Sun: 11-3 • Breakfast-Sat/Sun: 8-11 Lunch Wed-Sun 11-3 Available for private events Breakfast Sat & Sun 8-11

142142Main Elk MainSt.St.East, East, Banner Banner Elk www.sisterlees.com • 828-898-4000 sisterlees@bellsouth.net 828-898-4000 Like us on Facebook

High Country Magazine

July 2015

Proof 2 for 1/6-page ad to run in

Make sure to visit the brewery, which is located in the ski village, to sample an exciting lineup of beers born from the finest ingredients and crafted with an amazing attention to detail. The brewery was completely remodeled last summer and has quickly become one of the resort’s most popular attractions!

Cheers! 5506’ Skybar

Beech Mountain has a one-of-a-kind amenity for guests – a skybar providing food and beverage service at the top of the mountain. This newlyconstructed facility has been named 5506’, paying tribute to the elevation that gives us the title of highest ski area in Eastern America.

ResoRt HouRs of opeRation 12-7 Friday • 10-7 Saturday • 10-6 Sunday BReweRy HouRs of opeRation 12-7 Thursday • 12-7 Friday • 10-7 Saturday • 12-7 Sunday

The Sea’s Best at the Mountains’ Finest

river dog coffeehouse & cafe linville. Located in Linville, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Offering delicious espresso drinks, coffee, homemade baked goods, soups, breakfast and lunch items. Cozy mountain setting with free Wi-Fi. n 828-733-9333. www.theriverdogcoffeehouse.com. See ad on page 44

The Eseeola Lodge

sister lee’s banner elk. Specializing in scratchmade baked goods, desserts, salads, quiches, soups and sandwiches. Bulk size and party platters. Private lunches and small parties. Beer and wine served. Lunch Wednesday thru Sunday. Breakfast Saturday and Sunday. n 828-8984000. www.sisterlees.com. See ad on page 48

Thursday Night Seafood Buffet Friday-Wednesday Dinner á la Carte The

Eseeola Lodge

Every Night a Special Occasion Call for Reservations: 828.733.4311 Eseeola.com

Six Pence

A Taste of England here in Blowing Rock & Friday and Saturday until Midnight Full Bar (open until 2am) 14 Beers on Draught focused on Imports and Micro Brews

Restaurant & Pub

BLOWING ROCK. Rustique showcases Modern American Cuisine inspired by French Culinary Tradition with a Southern Flare. It is the culmination of two loves — Food and Mountains. Rustique is the place to express these two loves, along with a passion for growing community around the table. We love to share seasonal specialties and Chef favorites. Rustique offers an extensive over 600 bottle wine list as well as serving all your favorite cocktails. Hours are: Tuesday - Thursday: 5:30pm-9:30pm, Friday & Saturday: 5:30pm-10pm, Sunday Bunch: 11am-2:30pm. Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm Tuesday – Saturday. Closed on Mondays. n 828-295-9474. www.RustiqueBlowingRock.com. See ad on page 47

RUSTIQUE

Featuring British & American Fare

six pence pub Blowing rock. In 2001 Six Pence opened in Blowing Rock, North Carolina and has been a Blowing Rock staple for visitors and residents alike ever since. Known all over the High Country for establishing itself as a fine example of British fare, the friendly staff, delicious food and extensive beer and wine selection make this local watering hole a local favorite. From traditional British favorites like Shepherd’s Pie and fish and chips to American-style burg-

828.295.3155 } } 1121 Main Street, Blowing Rock, N.C. July 2015

High Country Magazine

Boone Bagelry’s

Hours: Mon. - sat. 6:00am - 5:00pm sun. 7:00am - 3:00pm

Family Owned & Operated since 1988 Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Gluten Free Options Available Free Delivery Deli Sandwiches, Omelettes, Flavored Cream Cheeses, Salads, Burgers Vegetarian Options Members of the Boone Independent Restaurant Association

Water Wheel Cafe

Family Owned & Operated Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day Serving All Your Old Favorites from the Original Bagelry With Some NEW Menu Items Turkey, Apple Grilled Cheese, Fresh Chicken Salad w/Blueberry Balsamic, and our New Lox Hash Fresh Baked Bagels Vegetarian & Gluten Free Options

• Home of the Famous Bagelicious • Featuring Bald Guy Brew Coffee Old dOwntOwn lOcatiOn

516 West King St. • 262-5585 www.boonebagelry.com

Hours: Mon - sat. 6:00 am - 3:00 pm sun. 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

Come Enjoy our Coffee Lounge featuring Bald Guy Brew Coffee at the 105 waterwheel

125 Graduate Lane • 262-1600 www.boonebagelry.com

ers, house made soups and salads, this eatery and bar alleviates everyone’s hunger pains and provides a unique dining experience right on beautiful Main Street. Who knew that one could find such exceptional British cuisine in the heart of the High Country? The pub now proudly features a new patio so guests can choose to sit outside and enjoy their meals and enjoy the beautiful views of Main Street. Or step inside to the air conditioned interior to beat the heat this summer season. n 828295-3155. www.sixpencepub.com. See ad on page 49

Speckled Trout Café Blowing Rock. When you come to Blowing Rock, look around, see the sights, do some shopping, then come down the quaint downtown street until you reach the corner of Main and Highway 221. It’s on this corner that you will find the Speckled Trout Cafe and Oyster Bar. Since 1986, the Speckled Trout Cafe & Oyster Bar has been pleasing both locals and visitors every evening with its exquisite choices for dinner. The house specialty is smoked rainbow trout which is fished from local waters, but the extensive menu covers everything from terrestrial meat choices like steak and ribs to fresh seafood and so much more. The Speckled Trout is also pleased to be serving lunch for patrons to enjoy either inside the restaurant or for easy take out for a picnic on the Parkway. The restaurant also proudly features a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking Main Street for guests to enjoy their meals in the beautiful outdoors as well as an airconditioned interior to beat the heat this summer season. n 828-295-9819. www.speckledtroutcafe.com. See ad on page 46

timberlake’S RESTAURANT AT CHETOLA RESORT BLOWING ROCK. On July 28, 2012, Chetola officially opened Timberlake’s Restaurant in the historical building, with a menu inspired by worldrenowned North Carolina artist and designer Bob Timberlake’s culinary favorites. The restaurant features three dining rooms, an intimate wine room 50

High Country Magazine

July 2015

and waterfront dining on the Patio. The charming and warmly outfitted Headwaters Pub is just inside Timberlake’s main entrance. Bob Timberlake, who is known for creating things of exceptional artistry and imagination, used his deeply rooted love of food as the impetus behind the distinctive menu. From Mesquite-dusted shrimp and salads of mountain-grown spinach, to Carolinaraised trout and roasted Carolina quail, each dish will be one worth savoring. A mouth-watering array of brick-oven pizzas, tender Angus beef filets, seafood, poultry, and an inspired selection of health and wellness dishes will also tempt palates of all tastes. n 828-2955505. www.chetola.com. See ad on page 45

vidalia Boone. Centrally located on King Street in downtown Boone, Vidalia is a casual, upscale restaurant featuring “creative American cuisine.” Featuring creative menu items for lunch and dinner, it offers daily specials, various events, wine tastings and special nights. Famous menu items include the apple and gorgonzola salad, shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles and mushroom ravioli, with finishing choices like stone ground grits and cheddar mac n’ cheese. All of these choices come to you from the culinary mind of Chef Samuel Ratchford, who also owns the restaurant with his wife Alyce. Taking pride in the local community, the restaurant is proud to offer various local ingredients and choices to patrons who are looking to try local fare. Vidalia holds all ABC permits and has an extensive wine list which routinely features over 60 different wines which can be expertly paired with meals by the staff, a large selection of craft beers, martinis, whiskeys, scotches and cordials. Vidalia’s menu changes twice a year to keep it seasonal and practices farm-to-table food, using local vendors as much as possible. n 828-263-9176. www.vidaliaofboone.com. See ad on page 48

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Days Gone By in

Local Museums BY BERNADETTE CAHILL

High Country Magazine

July 2015

The Old Linville Depot with historic Eastern Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad Caboose No. 505 have found a permanent home behind the Old Jail in Newland (below), which has housed the Avery County Historical Museum for several decades.

arly one morning in September of 2007, an unusual procession began to wend its way from Grape Street in Linville, Avery County. Behind an escort vehicle, a dilapidated structure atop a tractor-trailer made its way up Highway 181 to Newland, the county seat. It came to rest behind the Old County Jail. The delivery completed the first stage of a rescue mission of one of Avery County’s historic buildings – the old Linville Depot of the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, the famous narrow-gauge line that ran from Johnson City, Tennessee, into North Carolina by way of Newland. Traveling beyond via Linville and Shull’s Mill, the tracks ultimately terminated at Boone, opening up the then isolated town to the outside world. The Linville Depot was the classiest depot on what became known affectionately as the Tweetsie Railroad. Chestnut bark from trees now largely extinct once covered its exterior. The siding aged to an attractive grey; white doors and windows enhanced the neutral background, while

colorful boxes of flowers at the windows provided seasonal splashes of color. Originally located in West Linville about a mile from the Eseeola Lodge, the move of the old Linville Depot that September day eight years ago deposited the venerable building in a place of safety

away from the destruction that neglect or modern development always ultimately brings to the past. Today, the old Depot, now refurbished, furnished like the old ticket office and complete with rails and the ET&WNC railroad No. 505 caboose outside, just as it all

July 2015

High Country Magazine

A look inside the refurbished Old Linville Depot that is furnished like the old ticket office, complete with rails and the ET&WNC railroad No. 505 caboose just outside. looked decades ago, has a permanent home behind the Old Jail. In terms of what had to be done to bring it to its resting place, the Old Linville Depot represents possibly the most spectacular addition to the preservation of the history of the High Country since the twenty-first century began. Yet, what the countless donations and multitudes of volunteer hours achieved with that one project in Newland has been replicated across the High Country in recent years and decades, as several generations of residents and summer visitors have combined forces to collect artifacts, arrange for facilities to display them, to

BLOWING ROCK HISTORICAL SOCIETY - 1888 MUSEUM

Board of Directors: Marcia Quinn - President, Lowell Thomas - Vice President / Treasurer, Ray Pickett - Asst. Treasurer, Genie Starnes - Secretary, Ginny Stevens, Janice Burns, Chip Edel, Kent Graham, Betty Green, Becky Steele, Lonnie Webster, Rita White, Albert Yount Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC, 28607 Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1-4, May through December www.blowingrockhistoricalsociety.com Scenes from inside the Avery County Historical Museum that houses seven rooms of displays from wars, to sports, to culture, along with the actually jail facility from the early 1900's. 54

High Country Magazine

July 2015

national park mineral museum

79 Parkway Maintenance Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 (828) 765-2761 Sun-Sat: 9-5, year-round www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit

finance the projects and to organize custodians for opening times – all in a dedicated effort to capture something of the flavor of days gone by and make it available to future generations before it disappears completely from memory. The Old Linville Depot began its new future at an appropriate location, for the Old Jail in Newland – on the National Register of Historic Places – has been the home of the Avery County Historical Museum for several decades. The museum was born of the Avery County Bicentennial celebrations in 1976 and today a new generation of dedicated volunteers con-

HICKORY RIDGE LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM (1980)

DIRECTOR and FOUNDER: Dave Davis Staff: Jillian Carpenter and Trace McGee volunteers: Clyde Burleson, Cole Campbell, Ivy Campbell, Jane Campbell, Mike Campbell, Steve Canipe, Brian Fannon, Mary Greene, Kathleen Hurtado,Michelle Ligon, Travis Souther, Julie Villeneuve and Tom Wooten. Horn in the West Drive, Boone, NC 28607 (828) 264-2120 Saturday 9-1, plus 5-8 during the Horn in the West www.hickoryridgemuseum.com

WATAUGA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY (1977) Digital Watauga Project www.wataugacountyhistoricalsociety.org

Avery County Historical MuseuM Founded 1976

Office Manager: Elizabeth Wright Board: Chair, Michael C. Hardy. Vice Chair, Tense Banks Secretary, Sharon Stewart Treasurer, Sheri Cornett

1829 Shultz Circle Newland, NC 28657-0266 (828) 733-7111 Mon-Thurs 10-3; phone ahead for Friday and Saturday openings www.averymuseum.com

APPALACHIAN HERITAGE MuseuM Founded 1989

Co-Director & President: Wayne Underwood Co-Director & Vice President: Sharon Underwood Secretary/Treasurer: Matthew Underwood

Mystery Hill Lane Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 264-2792 June-August: Mon-Sun 9-8 Sept-May: Mon-Sun 9-5 www.mysteryhill-nc.com

MUSEUM OF ASHE COUNTY HISTORY, INC. Founded 2001

director: Ramona Renfroe CURATOR: Don Long Board of Directors: Lee Beckworth, Garner Blevins, Jerry Brown, Joy Campbell, Paul Caudill, Jennifer Dollar, Pete Eller, Mike Herman, Chris Hill,

Diane Johnston, Brian Jones, Lonnie Jones, Jerry McMillan, Bruce Miller, Kathryn Miller, Gary Poe, Betsy Reeves, John Shephard, Stephen Shoemaker, Carol Williams, JoAnn Woodie Mon-Sat 10-4 â&#x20AC;˘ www.ashehistory.org

BANNER HOUSE MuseuM Founded 2007

Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation Director: Susy Martin Crouch

7990 Hickory Nut Gap Road, Banner Elk, NC, 28604 (828) 898-3634 Daily guided tours from mid-June to mid-October www.bannerhousemuseum.org

BEECH MTN. HISTORICAL SOCIETY MuseuM Founded 2013

President: Ann Isles Secretary: Becky Wheeler Treasury: Billy Jean Steele Members: Carolyn West, Anne Shinn, Deedee Burger, Barbara Tiquet

403 Beech Mountain Pkwy Beech Mountain, NC, 28604 (828) 387-2930 Open from third week in June, 2015, times to be determined www.beechmountainchamber

BLOWING ROCK ART & HISTORY MUSEUM Opened 2011

Executive Director: Lee Carol Giduz Staff: Ethan Brooks-Livingston, David Harwood, Libby Hoffmire, Roland Koch, Dianna Loughlin, Meghan B. Minton, Leila Weinstein

159 Chestnut Street Blowing Rock, NC, 28605 (828) 295-9099 Tues,Wed, Fri, Sat: 10-5; Thurs: 10-7. www.blowingrockmuseum.org

Beech Mountain’s Historical Society Museum contains artifacts from the past of three different entities: Beech Mountain resort, the town of Beech Mountain and the club that original residents belonged to. It also showcases some of the national sporting activities that has put Beech Mountain on the map: from alpine skiing to biking. It also has a display from the popular Land of Oz attraction, which closed its door in 1980.

tinues what volunteers began then. The museum’s upper floor is still the historic Old Jail. Some ground-floor rooms display artifacts relating to medicine, education, wars and photography, while others display a general store and a 1911 bedroom. The museum also maintains a local document archive and researches and records local genealogy as well. Avery County’s museum sits right beside another historic structure – the town’s Court House. It remains a working Court House, but two counties away, the impetus to preserve Ashe County’s history has led to the preservation of that county’s 1904 Court House whose future became uncertain when brand-new facilities opened in 2001. The premises are now the primary exhibit, following extensive and continuing restoration since 2004. If anything competes with the relocation of the Old Linville Depot for the number one position as the most spectacular feat of historic preservation in recent years in the High Country, it is the Museum of Ashe County History, for this historic building would be a sorely-missed landmark in the town of Jefferson if it had gone down to the wrecker’s ball – much like the similar old Court House of Boone must have been missed after it was demol56

High Country Magazine

July 2015

ished in the 1960s to make way for the buildings of today. Besides making a stunning historical statement in the local scenery, Ashe County’s historic court building houses a notto-be-missed display of artifacts illustrating the history of the county from deep in the past to modern times. It features memorabilia honoring Ashe County military, a sports hall of fame and changing exhibits on home and work early in the county’s history. The museum places all this modern activity against the background of the original inhabitants of the area, the Native Americans. One star of the show is the railroad room, which displays artifacts from the Abingdon Branch of the Norfolk & Western Railway, which led to the creation of West Jefferson in 1915. The section of the exhibit that makes the eyes of children of all ages sparkle is the volunteer-built diorama of the old Virginia Creeper line with its little train chugging away through the remote mountains and towns of Ashe County, just as it used to do within living memory. Another eye-popping exhibit is the display of ore mining in the county, which, appropriately located in the old document vault of the building, gives the feeling of entering deep into a mine.

The Newland and Jefferson museums are less than fifty miles apart. Between them, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Boone and Blowing Rock area all offer opportunities for hunting out the history of the High Country. Individually, they provide several enjoyable recreational pursuits. Collectively they compensate in some way for the loss of the Appalachian Cultural Museum, Boone’s nearly twenty-year-old history museum, which Appalachian State University closed down early in 2006, dispersing the collection. Although nothing can completely replace a well-respected, established institution that held a wide range of fascinating objects and presented a vision of Southern Appalachia that countered the Beverley Hillbillies stereotype, with today’s resources dotted throughout the area, residents and visitors can still add history to their experience, going beyond the enjoyment of the natural beauty, outdoor recreation and cultural pursuits like music and plays. History-hunting is enthralling in itself; it is also useful for rainy days, to determine specific destinations to visit, or for discovering new places to explore. Local, small and driven by a significant volunteer base, these museums lay out the history of the High Country from prehis-

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

toric to recent times. They provide, for example, the historical context for one of the High Country’s key attractions – Tweetsie Railroad – which is a reminder of the old railroad that the Linville Depot commemorates. Beech Mountain’s museum, situated at an elevation of about 5,506 feet, is located at the focus of two of our area’s outdoor pursuits – skiing and cycling – and it records some of that history. The Beech Mountain museum, operated by the Beech Mountain Historical Society and having opened in 2013, is the area’s youngest museum. Located behind Fred’s General Mercantile, it is also the one at the highest altitude. Although small, its fascinating collection of items donated by or on loan from local residents commemorates the history of the original Beech Mountain resort, the town of Beech Mountain and the club that original residents belonged to. These three entities have been crucial to the development of something unique: the eastern United States’ highest town and one of very few ski areas operating in the Southeastern United States. Besides being the youngest, the Beech Mountain Museum owns possibly the oldest historic artifact – a Clovis-era point or arrowhead, which dates it to around ten thousand years ago. This museum’s collection of such ancient artifacts is small; most of the items were uncovered during the building of Beech Mountain’s roads. The Museum of Avery County History also includes a display of early objects like Beech Mountain’s, but the most spectacular collection is to be found in the Appalachian Heritage Museum located between Boone and Blowing Rock beside Mystery Hill. This private enterprise museum demonstrates the diverse and quaint nature of some of the High Country’s museums. Housed below the Daugherty House, which in the 1980s was removed through huge volunteer efforts from the campus of an expanding ASU amid controversy about its potential destruction, the Native American artifacts are spectacular for their quantity, presentation and variety. They include not only countless arrow or other tool points, but also carved effigies of animals and birds. Although they may not all originate in the High Country, this collection is well worth a side trip. In the same building, but above this exhibit, the rooms of the Daugherty House display household artifacts and other memorabilia of the area – the kind that would have furnished this very house when it began life in what is now the ASU campus.

The Museum of Ashe County History saved the century-old court house from an uncertain future and now, with the aid of many volunteers, depicts aspects of life and work in Ashe County from the early days. The entrancing diorama of the old Virginia Creeper line with its little train chugging away through and the display of ore mining in the county are not to be missed. On the opposite end of the spectrum of history museums is the Blowing Rock Art History Museum (BRAHM), an art history museum that opened in 2011 and which has a room dedicated to historical artifacts exhibits, with the current one a fascinating presentation of memorabilia about the Blowing Rock Fire Department whose origins lie in the disastrous 1923 fire that destroyed much of the village.

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But for such an exhibit – curated with the help of the Blowing Rock Historical Society – an important milestone in the history of the town would be almost erased from memory by the very growth and development that the fire department’s formation helped to protect. In addition to such special exhibits, BRAHM hosts many talks and presentations on historical topics throughout the season.

The small cottage on Main Street in front of BRAHM is the c. 1890 restored Edgewood Cottage, the first home in Blowing Rock of artist Elliott Daingerfield. It hosts the Blowing Rock Artist in Residence program and represents a key achievement of the Blowing Rock Historical Society, founded in 1985. Other achievements are the listing of the Green Park Historic district in the National Register of Historic

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High Country Magazine

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Places; the town’s Historic Marker program and the publication of two volumes of historic postcards of Blowing Rock, which make great souvenirs. Of particular note is the Blowing Rock Historical Society’s 1888 Museum, housed in the last remaining holiday cottage of the old Watauga Hotel. Located at the corner of Memorial Park, it recreates the holiday accommodation of more than a century ago and also includes dinnerware and menus and key fobs with famous names from the now-defunct Mayview Manor Hotel, opened in 1922. Besides a ride on the Tweetsie Railroad for a flavor of days gone by, the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum provides a taste of life in a pioneer village. Established in 1980 and a part of the Southern Appalachian Historical Association which produces Horn in the West – the annual dramatization of the story of pioneers in the Revolutionary War – the Homestead’s re-enactors’ July 4 reading of the Declaration

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High Country Magazine

July 2015

BRAHM has a room dedicated to historical artifacts exhibits, with the current one displaying a fascinating presentation of memorabilia about the Blowing Rock Fire Department whose origins lie in the disastrous 1923 fire that destroyed much of the village.

of Independence is an unforgettable celebration of that day. The administrative offices of the complex close by the pioneer village houses a cabinet of authentic historical artifacts. Two more museums are worth a visit. In Banner Elk, the Banner House Museum of the Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation brings to life the home of Samuel Henry Banner, one of the town’s original settlers, during the 1870s and 1880s. Further afield, at mile 331 on the Parkway at the Spruce Pine exit, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals features exhibits on minerals and gems found in North Carolina, while interactive displays explain the importance of mining in the region – tying the history theme back in with the Jefferson museum’s display of mining there. On the route of the Overmountain Men – the historical background of which is depicted in the Horn in the West drama in Boone – on their way to the victory of the Battle of Kings Mountain, the Museum hosts a historical re-enactment of the event that many historians hold to be the turning point in the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. Some of these museums charge for admission. Others accept donations. Often manned by volunteers, it is advisable to check opening hours beforehand. For the history of Watauga County however, there’s little need to worry about opening hours, according to Bettie Bond of the Watauga County Historical Society, founded in 1977. While nothing can replace the now-extinct brick-andmortar museum of ASU and while threedimensional objects bring the past to life in a way that nothing else can, history isn’t all about artifacts. It is also about documents like photographs, letters, certificates, administrative records and so on which help to reconstruct who did what in a particular place and often why and how. Such documents are finding a new lease on life in a major project sponsored by the Watauga County Historical Society in collaboration with various local groups and individuals. This project is digitizing as many local history records, public and private, as possible. Already many of these items are on-line, accessible any time of the day from any distance. As time passes, this digital archive will only grow, and will also help to fill the gap that the former Appalachian Cultural Museum left in the wake of its demise. 

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High Country Magazine

Cut Above the Rest

The Stone Jewelers Celebrates 50 Years This Summer By Megan Northcote

s the old adage goes, if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. Just ask anyone who knows Ronnie Wilson, owner of The Stone Jewelers on Shadowline Drive, and they’ll tell you Ronnie is a walking testament to that saying. This year, The Stone Jewelers celebrates its fifty year anniversary as the High Country’s premier jewelry shop. The store will celebrate with events in July, which had not been finalized as of press time. Years of hard work and perseverance have brought Ronnie to this career milestone, yet it was more than mere happenstance – a crossing of paths between this young Boone native 62

High Country Magazine

July 2015

and a family business friend in the 1960s - that launched this master jeweler’s career.

Setting the Foundation

For as long as he can remember, Ronnie says his family had always been in the car business. One year, former Boone watchmaker Blain Phillips left his watch repair job and joined the Wilson’s family business. As a teenager in the early 60s, Ronnie would accompany Phillips to Pennsylvania antique shops to scout out antique watches, particularly the hunting case variety. Recognizing Ronnie’s fascination with these old front case pocket watches, Phillips agreed to apprentice Ronnie in watch repair. “At that time, I saw the car business was

“I started developing an interest in watches and jewelry.” – Ronnie Wilson (referring to when he was in his 20's )

The watch above is a "minute" watch. That means when you press the lever on the side, the watch chimes for the hour and minute. It is a Swiss-made watch. not going to be my cup of tea,” Ronnie joked. Coincidentally, in 1963, the Boone watch repair shop where Phillips used to work was needing a new watch repairer, so together, Ronnie and Phillips seized the opportunity to purchase all the repair equipment and open their own shop located where Under the Sun consignment shop on King Street is today. “I started developing an interest in watches and jewelry,” Ronnie said. “I would go by and look at other jewelry stores in other towns and I thought this would be a neat business to be in, although I knew nothing about it.” At the young age of 22, Ronnie started talking to a banker, who had known him all his life and who trusted him enough to loan him money to open his own shop. One June 21, 1965, Ronnie opened The Stone Jewelry, located above Boone Drug on King Street, which specialized in antique watch repair. At this point, Ronnie had acquired

hundreds of antique watches, many of which he sold to help finance his store. He had also purchased hundreds of watch movements from a store in Pennsylvania who had purchased these mechanisms during the Great Depression from people who were in desperate need of cash. Ronnie says his watches date back to the late 1700s through the 1930s. Be-

“To me, jewelry is not just about it being something valuable. Jewelry is meant to mark an occasion, an event.” – Ronnie Wilson

tween 1850 and the 1930s, the American Watch Industry was the number one watch manufacturer in the world, developing standardized watch parts to allow for the ease of mass production. Prior to that, Ronnie said, Americans would have to place their watch order with companies in England; since all watch parts were handmade, parts were not interchangeable, resulting in customers sometimes waiting as long as a couple years before their watch order was complete. By the early 1880s, Americans had perfected their automated system of manufacturing, virtually running the English out of the market; however, the Swiss ultimately caught on to the automated system, greatly replacing the AWI in this fiercely competitive market. As the twentieth century progressed, the number of antique watch repair shops in the States greatly declined. Those that survived, such as Ronnie’s, were run by only the most diligent, highly trained watch repairmen in the country. July 2015

High Country Magazine

ABOVE: Ronnie takes pride in making each piece that comes through the store, special for the customers. He enjoys working with his hands and today he still carves pieces of jewelry. Pictured above is him working on carving a ring. TOP, LEFT: Part of the casting process. Heating up the gold to liquid form then the wheel wil swing the god into the mold. BOTTOM, LEFT (2): Even though it's been 50 years, Ronnie stays up to date with technology and is using a laser welder.

For five or six years, Ronnie worked with Philips learning the art of watch repair. To perfect his skills, he even repaired the mechanical movements in the downtown Boone parking meters. “In the back of my store, I had big piles of parking meters just waiting to be repaired,” Ronnie said. Aside from shadowing Phillips, Ronnie says he is primarily a self-taught jeweler. While a student at Appalachian State University, Ronnie studied industrial arts and drafting. Yet, most of his specialized knowledge was developed after college by reading books and attending mini trade show seminars to learn more about custom design. Ronnie also credits his younger years helping with the bookkeeping for his family’s business as what provided him with the necessary financial knowledge to manage his own jewelry shop successfully. Despite all of his hard work, Ronnie has many fond memories of his earliest years in the profession. When he was just starting out, he remembers selling a customer an “exceptionally nice watch,” which he had bought in Philadelphia from an antique watch trader. A couple years later, a lady from Tennessee stopped by his store with the same watch to have it repaired and spun him an elaborate tale about how that watch had been passed down through her family for generations. In his humble way, Ronnie just smiled and went ahead with the order.

Changing Tastes, Chasing Trends

Since his business opened, Ronnie said he’s never been without a lot of customer repair work. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, gold was selling for a historically low rate of $35 an ounce, resulting in a steady demand for gold jewelry orders. By the 1980s, the price of gold and jewelry spiked significantly. Compounding the issue, Ronnie feared his downtown shop would struggle to compete with the Boone Mall being constructed down the road. So in 1981, he moved his shop to the mall and expanded operations, hiring extra craftsmen and purchasing all new equipment so that his company could begin manufacturing 64

High Country Magazine

July 2015

custom designed jewelry. He even drew up the blueprints for the shop himself. Over the decades, Ronnie has noticed changing trends in his custom design requests. When he started in the 1960s, white gold with illusion tops and diamonds was in vogue. By the 1970s and 80s, everything had become baroque, nugget, and yellow-gold. By the 90s, there were a lot of requests for two-tone white and yellow gold. Today, modern vintage jewelry seems to be most popular, which Ronnie describes as a combination of 1920s Art Deco along with Victorian style pieces emphasizing filigree, halos, and side diamonds. Throughout the years, Ronnie has also filled numerous corporate jewelry requests. For instance, sometimes a company awards an employee a pin and each year receives a different gemstone crafted by Ronnie, such as sapphires, rubies, or diamonds, to add to their pin. He is particularly proud of his Yosef jewelry line, which he developed in the mid-1980s for ASU, which has since been discontinued. These rings featured a profile of the university’s mascot with a diamond cut around the outside as well as earrings, pendants, and bracelets. A particularly special request for Ronnie came in 2007 from ASU football Coach Jerry Moore. Moore brought Ronnie a Widow’s Mite, the coin revered in the New Testament for the widow who donated two mites to the offering to which Jesus proclaimed, “She of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.” As a symbolic token of selflessness and honor, Moore asked Ronnie to make copies of this Roman coin, and then frame each copy with the related biblical scripture. That year, Moore gave one of these framed gifts

TOP, RIGHT: Ronnie's first store was in downtown Boone on KIng Street, where "Highway Robbery" is now located. BOTTOM, RIGHT: Second store was located in the Boone Mall. Ronnie designed the whole store himself. BOTTOM, FAR RIGHT: Current store, located at Shops at Shadowline. All three drawings were done by Bob Jones. July 2015

High Country Magazine

Ronnie with his wife, Karma, in the store. Both are very excited to be celebrating his 50 years in the business. to each of his players who had worked tirelessly to defeat Michigan, making that football season one of ASU’s most successful.

Making the Cut

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High Country Magazine

While Ronnie relishes each of these specialty custom orders, the biggest boost to his business came on Sept. 11, 1991 when he joined the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO), a group of more than 800 independent jeweler retailers located nationwide and in Canada. According to their website, IJO is the largest buying group in the world and is committed to the highest ethical standards in helping its members purchase and select high

quality jewels from carefully screened vendors at trade shows held twice a year. “[Joining IJO] was a major game changer for me,” Ronnie said. “Being an independent business person of any type is very difficult and you can’t afford what you need, but IJO provides this support. They keep you up to date on how to better compete in the market.” In the early 90s, Ronnie would take advantage of IJO’s semi-annual excursions to Antwerp, Belgium, where more than 60 percent of the world’s diamonds are sold, to purchase diamonds directly from the cutters. Today, many of these diamond houses come to the biannual IJO trade shows, where members can not

July 2015

Ronnie started off repairing and collecting antique watches. Pictured above his a portion of his most prized watches. He has a much larger collection.

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High Country Magazine

“I truly, truly love what I do,” Ronnie said. “You know they say if you do something you love you’ll never work a day in your life. I’m the perfect example of that. And it’s not because of the jewelry, it’s because of the people.”

Certificate of Ronnie's business license when he first opened his store that is dated July 23, 1965 and cost $1.00 There are thousands of diamonds that are available to Ronnie selected by the diamond cutters. in Belgium. Here is a picture of him holding a diamond that is about 40 carats. only hand-select premium diamonds and gemstones, but also attend educational seminars featuring esteemed leaders in the world of fine jewelry to help members stay up to date on trends in the field. One of the mainstays of Ronnie’s work is diamonds. Back in the 60s, Ronnie sold diamonds for under $1,000, which today would go for anywhere between $8,000 to $12,000. When Ronnie selects his diamonds, he has certain criteria he keeps in mind to make sure his diamonds are cream of the crop: cut, color, clarity, and carat. For gemstones, Ronnie selects well-cut stones with high color intensity and minimal inclusions. Ronnie also served on the board of the North Carolina Jewelers Association from 1988 to 1997, further increasing his knowledge of quality gemstones. Some of The Stone Jewelers esteemed jewelry designer collections include: Frederic Duclos, an award winning French designer; Allison Kaufman, one of the oldest diamond manufacturers in the country; and Colore, whose line features colored gemstones from around the world set in sterling silver and 18-karat gold. In addition to Antwerp, Ronnie has had the opportunity to travel all over the 68

High Country Magazine

July 2015

globe with IJO, visiting Palm Springs, Boston, Salt Lake City, Toronto, New Orleans, and more. Ronnie is particularly proud of attending a special evening banquet honoring IJO’s donation of a near flawless 270,000-carat citrine crystal to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. “All of us at IJO headquarters congratulate Ronnie on celebrating fifty years in his store,” IJO President and CEO Jeff Roberts said. “It can be a tough industry, and the longevity of his business says a lot about Ronnie as a businessman. It’s not just about the jewelry – Ronnie has never stopped the learning process in all these years, and this celebration is one of the rewards.”

Life’s Rare and Precious Finds

The year 2003 marked another big milestone in Ronnie’s personal life when he married Karma Wilson. Karma has been working with her husband at The Stone Jewelers full time since 2013. “Ronnie really has an eye for design and detail,” Karma said. “Everything he produces is really well put together and well made.”

Ronnie has custom designed numerous surprise pieces for his wife, including a large fire opal pendant necklace, an emerald ring, spinel earrings and her blue-green diamond engagement ring and complementary hand-engraved, 18-karat gold platinum wedding band. In addition to traveling to IJO trade shows together, the couple particularly enjoys the annual social galas, which feature vendors competing for best in costume voted on by gala attendees. Past gala costume themes have included Egypt and the 1920s.

“Ronnie knows my tastes and was able to pick out the perfect piece for me. Ronnie has good tastes and unique jewelry.” – Customer Kim Davis

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High Country Magazine

When not on the job, Ronnie and Karma enjoy cooking and gardening. Eleven years ago, the couple built a house in a very secluded area in Boone where Ronnie has spent much time landscaping the yard with flowers and shrubs and building rock walls. Ronnie also enjoys spending time with his grandkids – Ila, age 5, and Tate, age 9 – both from Chapel Hill. He frequently attends his grandson’s basketball games to watch his exceptionally talented little athlete. And of course, Ronnie makes sure to find ways that he can introduce his grandkids to his love of rocks and gemstones. Once, he and his grandson made a wax cut and casting of a dragoon ring. And he’s mounted numerous gemstone pendants for his granddaughter. “He likes raw minerals and she loves jewelry,” Ronnie said. 70

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July 2015

“When [the grandkids] come by the shop, they like rummaging through one of my drawers filled with loose gemstones.” Ronnie is also especially proud of his two sons, Brad of Chapel Hill and Bryan of Asheville, who both hold successful careers.

A Cut Above the Rest

For Ronnie, the secret to his success as the premier jeweler of the High Country for fifty years has nothing to do with the price of his jewelry, and everything to do with putting his customers “absolutely first.” His business caters to a wide demographic of customers ranging from ASU students looking for the most unique, cutting edge design to wealthy individuals searching for the most esteemed jewelry typically found only in high-end markets up

Ronnie and Karma are part of one of the largest buying groups. Occasionally they have the honor of giving a large and rare gemstone to the Smithsonian, pictured above is a 270,000 carat Citrine, that is near flawless.

North. These days, instead of focusing on antique watches, most of his orders focus on jewelry design along with repairs on gold and platinum, pendant settings for necklaces and bracelets, and hand engraving. Kim Davis of Boone is one of these loyal patrons who remembers meeting Ronnie for the first time when she was just a teenager. In the late 1960s, her late husband purchased custom designed rings from Ronnie and she continued purchasing nugget bracelets and diamond rings from him into the 70s and 80s. One of her most prized pieces he designed for her is a ring featuring the engagement ring diamond from her first marriage encased in a setting shaped like the letter ‘W’ (symbolic of her maiden name Wilcox), which was purchased and given to her a few years ago by her second husband. “Ronnie knows my tastes and was able to pick out the perfect piece for me,” Davis said. “Ronnie has good tastes and unique jewelry.” In fact, her entire family has always turned to Ronnie first when it comes

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IJO- Independent Jewelers Organization have shows that are held bi-annually. This is where jewelers come to gather for opportunities such as educational classes on buying as well as networking with other jewelers. They always have exceptional keynote speakers. Pictured above is Ronnie and Karma and one of the past keynote speakers, Neal Peterson. Neal is an award author and solo world yacht racer.

to selecting that perfect piece of jewelry to celebrate special occasions. When her children were young, they would make their way over to “Uncle Ronnie’s” shop and peer through the glass cases at the watches and rings until they’d saved up enough of their own allowance to buy one for themselves. Now all grown up, her daughter went to him for her engagement ring when he fiancé proposed a couple years ago. Likewise, Davis’ parents always turn to The Stone Jewelers for any anniversary celebration that deserves a gemstone. “To me, jewelry is not just about it being something valuable,” Ronnie said. “Jewelry is meant to mark an occasion, an event. My customers are my most precious thing. It’s personal now. I’ve been part of their weddings, their anniversaries, and the birth of their children.” While a lot of his business is local, Ronnie’s also developed a wide customer base through word-of-mouth recommendations, expanding his sales internation72

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July 2015

ally to places as far away as China, Italy, Florida, and Alaska. In fact, one month he said 70 percent of his sales weren’t local, shipping instead to customers in Chicago, California, and Washington. In order to better accommodate the needs of his local clients, in 1996 Ronnie decided to relocate his shop from the Boone Mall to Shadowline Drive, changing the name slightly to The Stone Jewelers. Much like with his previous location, he put his custom design skills to use and drew up the blueprints for his current store, which features large window displays. Earlier this year, he hired Meghan Frye, who graduated from ASU in May with a degree in apparel design and merchandising and a minor in marketing, to help with the publicity surrounding the business’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Ultimately, Frye hopes to become a jewelry buyer in accessories, jewelry, or retail. “I like that feel of being able to pick certain [stones] out and say this is what my

customers like, this is what my customers are going to wear, and from that, start a new trend,” said Frye. For instance, Frye said she’s noticed a lot of young women her age showing an increased interest in pearls. So far, the Wilsons feel she’s been a tremendous asset to their store. Next spring, she’ll be attending the IJO trade show in Orlando to buy gems for the store. She’s also in training to become a manager at the shop. As for Ronnie, he has no plans of shutting down business anytime soon. “I truly, truly love what I do,” Ronnie said. “You know they say if you do something you love you’ll never work a day in your life. I’m the perfect example of that. And it’s not because of the jewelry, it’s because of the people.”  EDITOR'S NOTE: The Stone Jewelers will be having special sales and events in July to celebrate their anniversary. Check out their website for details. www.thestonejewelers.com

July 2015

High Country Magazine

PHOTOGRAPHY by KEN KETCHIE

50 Years of Family

Restaurant Serves Locals, Visitor's for Generations 74

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July 2015

For more than 50 years, the restaurant has been warming the hearts of local residents, tourists and college students alike with top-notch customer service, a charming atmosphere and only the best in southern cuisine served family style. Steeped in rich history and nestled right in the heart of Boone, the inn first opened for business in 1959 and remains a staple of culture in the High Country. It’s more than just a restaurant, and folks like General Manager Jeff Shellman, a part-owner who has been with the inn for more than two decades, will tell you it’s more like a family than anything else for its customers and its employees.

INSPIRING LEADERSHIP

Shellman, a native of Gaston County, is one of many employees over the years that have dedicated their entire careers to the restaurant. He secured his first job at Dan’l Boone Inn as a dishwasher in 1989 while pursuing a business degree at Appalachian State University. He had plans to find a job in his field of study at the time, and had no idea he’d spend more than 20 years devoting his entire professional life to the inn. “I thought I wanted to do banking,” he said. “That was my original plan when I entered the college of business.” After a year or two on the job, he developed a deep appreciation for the restaurant, the community it serves and the two owners he worked under, Gene Wilson and Jim Paal. He quickly

BY JESSICA ISAACS

hen it comes to life in the Carolinas, nothing says home quite like a little southern hospitality, a few friendly faces and a hot meal waiting on the table. You just can’t beat the peace of mind that comes from the comforts of home — unless, of course, you’ve stopped for dinner at the Dan’l Boone Inn. July 2015

High Country Magazine

The breakfast menu displayed in the foyer. worked his way up in the ranks, taking on a variety of roles until he reached upper management in mid ’90s. “I went from washing dishes to a member of the wait staff, to a full time host,” Shellman said. “I did management internship here while I was still in school and then became the assistant manager.” When Paal, his predecessor, retired in 1996, Shellman assumed responsibility as general manager at the age of 26. While training him to manage the inn, Paal entrusted him with a lot of responsibility and gave him autonomy as he grew into a leadership role of his own. “Jim trained me on how he did things and then gave me the freedom to do things the way that I wanted to do them. After I took over, he gave me free reign,” Shellman said. “He never interjected into anything that I was involved in — he let me handle it and supported me however he

needed to.” After 20 years of proving himself as a valuable leader, Shellman jumped at the opportunity to buy out a third investor and became part-owner in 2009, joining the ranks of the two men who helped shape him as a manager — Wilson and Paal. From them he learned many important lessons over the years and his own passion for the restaurant was inspired. “They are both great owners — unbelievable to work for. They taught me to treat the staff well and to operate within your means,” Shellman said. “They also taught me to spend your money on the quality of food. Jim always said, ‘your best advertisement is on the table.’”

“ONE GREAT BIG FAMILY”

While his two mentors have played an important part in keeping him at the Dan’l

Boone Inn, Shellman said his love for the restaurant ultimately led him to devote his career to it. “It sounds cliché, but it’s the family atmosphere,” Shellman said. “We still have people who have been here for 20-30 years.” In fact, there are still several employees who have been at the inn since before Shellman got there in ’89, including longtime shift manager Peter Hess. Starting in June 1980, he worked as a dishwasher, too, until he moved up to the kitchen and then to waiting tables. Since 2005, he has worked as a shift manager. “The shift manager does a lot of things. On the day shift, they right up the schedule, check all of the parties, find out if there are any pick-ups and converse with the kitchen staff to know how many people to expect for the day,” Hess said. “We find out how much chicken to cook and

Pat Paal has been maintaining the lush gardens that wrap around the building at Dan’l Boone Inn for three decades.

High Country Magazine

July 2015

The table settings are part of the rich traditions that make the inn so special. how many cakes we need, give the cashiers a break sometimes and solve any problems that come up during the shift. We generally help out all around.” He, too, has been committed to the restaurant for many years because of its inspiring leadership. “Jim took over in ’81 as general manager and he brought a lot of organization … to be perfectly honest, it has been mainly because of Jim that I have stayed,” Hess said. The management’s commitment to organization and to treating the staff with kindness makes the Dan’l Boone Inn a great place to work, Hess said, and that’s likely why some of its employees have been there for 20 years or more. “It’s one great big family. There’s a core of us that have been working together for so long and we all get along,” he said. “Most of the new people who come in seem to enjoy working here, too. Nearly two-thirds of the summer staff, nearly 90 people in the summer, is comprised of college students from ASU. The mixture of new faces with longtime employees like Hess creates an interesting environment in which people of various ages and skill levels can learn from one another on the job. Thanks to the balance of experience and fresh ideas, some employees refer to the restaurant as “a well-oiled machine.” Although the college students often leave after they graduate and only work at the inn for three to four years at a time, Hess said they are still very important to the success of the restaurant and ultimately become part of the family.

“The longer they’ve been here the more they think about the restaurant,” Hess said, “They do a better job each year.”

A LABOR OF LOVE

Because children of employees often come to work there, too, Hess said he’s worked with multiple generations of at least five or six families in his 35 years at the inn. “It’s kind of neat, really,” he said. “They are their own individuals, but when you’ve got three generations working together, they’re usually very good workers.” In fact, more than 10 members of owner Gene Wilson’s immediate family have worked in the restaurant, too, including his mother, who was known affectionately amongst the staff as Granny Wilson. Geri Townsend, who works in the bake kitchen, comes from one such family. Her husband’s aunt and uncle, Birdy and Adam Townsend, spent their entire careers at the Dan’l Boone Inn and are well known amongst the staff as important players in the establishment’s history. “Adam worked in the kitchen frying chicken and Birdy was on the wait staff,” said Townsend, worked with her aunt and uncle for more than 10 years before they retired. Townsend, who is passionate about her role in the kitchen, left a career in nursing 25 years ago. Since then, she’s been at the inn cooking up sweet treats and the restaurant’s signature buttermilk biscuits, which remain a staple of the menu. “Oh, I just love all of it. We make cakes, pudding, cobblers, bread — I just love it all,” she said. “I like to make up the bread, knead it, roll it out and cut the

biscuits out.” Townsend said that cooking alongside the same people for many years creates an enjoyable, productive work environment. She also agreed with Hess that student employees bring a lot to the table, too. “We intermingle with the wait staff a lot and we all get along really good. It’s a change in people sometimes because the students only work here while they’re in college, but they’re all really good to work with,” she said. “They’re all great — that’s the reason I stay here. Everybody seems like family.” Pat Paal, wife of Jim Paal, has played a significant role in the restaurant’s history, as well. She took over the bookkeeping responsibilities when her husband started as general manager in the early ’80s and handled employee payroll for many years. Although her husband has retired and she passed on the bookkeeping duties nearly four years ago, she is still at the inn several times a week maintaining the stunning gardens that wrap around the entire building. Her gardens add color, variety and energy to the grounds, pulling together her favorite shades of pinks, purples and yellows for an elaborate display that contributes to the comfortable, inviting atmosphere of the inn. When you stroll through around the property, you’ll see a vast array of blooms and leaves that have been carefully arranged to create beauty year-round. Much like the food that is served at the inn, the gardens are a labor of love. A number of her plants have been transplanted from her own grandmother’s property, and she often shares the garden with restaurant July 2015

High Country Magazine

A family of eight enjoys quality time at Dan’l Boone Inn over a meal featuring the restaurant’s home-style southern food. guests in more ways than one. “I love to walk through the gardens and yard and tell people about all of the plants. Interestingly enough, we share a lot of the plants with people, too” she said. “I traded plants with Dale Whisenant from the Outdoorsman one spring many years ago and that’s how I got some of these hostas. People love these hostas, so I often dig them up and send them home with people.” She’s been a part of the inn for more than three decades, and she agrees its more like a family than a business. “It’s like home — it really is,” Pat said. “You get to know a lot of people and many, many of them were here until they retired. It’s like family.”

High Country Magazine

July 2015

DAN’L BOONE INN

There’s no doubt that great friendship exists between the management and employees at the Dan’l Boone Inn, but they’ll be the first to tell you that customers are part of the family, too. The historic inn still serves up many of the same favorite menu items that first made it popular in the ’60s, including southern fried chicken, country style steak, country ham on scratch-made buttermilk biscuits, stewed apples, real mashed potatoes with gravy, the inn’s signature coleslaw and fresh, hot vegetables. It remains one of the area’s most popular establishments and it’s still the only place in town that offers family style dining. In addition to the excellent customer service and the homemade food, Shellman said it’s the inn’s unique dining experience that keeps people coming back time after time. “The concept is to be just the way you would eat if you were at home eating or at your grandparents’ house eating. Everything comes at once and is put out on the table,” Shellman said. “We offer free refills on everything, so it’s basically an all-you-can-eat meal. The southern cooking, the passing of the bowls and platters — that’s the main concept behind family style.” The Dan’l Boone Inn sees a lot of customers who are traveling through the area, visiting ASU or enjoying a mountain getaway, so its “regulars” often don’t come by every day. The staff has come to love and appreciate those who come from out of town and return to the restaurant every time they’re in Boone.

ABOVE: If you visited Dan’l Boone Inn in the ’70s or ’80s, you probably recall it looking like this, with the large sign and marquee that used to stand out front. General Manager Jeff Shellman said this is the look that most people remember after the building renovations from the ’60s and ’70s were completed. “That sign is pretty distinct, and I wish we still had it,” Shellman said.

RIGHT: The Dan’l Boone Inn building as it appeared before renovations when it served as the home of Dr. R.K. Bingham and the first hospital in Watauga County.

July 2015

High Country Magazine

General Manager Jeff Shellman, who first joined the inn as a dishwasher in 1989 and is now a part owner, is shown in his second floor office at Dan’l Boone Inn.

A Timeline History of Dan'l Boone Inn 1920s

1970s

The building at 130 Hardin Street now houses the Dan’l Boone Inn restaurant, but it once served the community in a different way. It was built as a home for local physician Dr. R.K. Bingham in 1923, making it one of the oldest and most historic buildings in Boone. Bingham started seeing patients in his home, which then served for many years as the first hospital in Watauga County.

A group of investors, including current part owner Gene Wilson, purchased the business from the Whitakers upon their retirement in 1971. Under new ownership, the inn maintained the family style concept established by the Whitakers and it continued to grow in popularity amongst local residents, college students and visitors alike. A back dining room was added later in the ’70s to accommodate more guests.

1950s Plans were underway for a new hospital located on the campus of the Appalachian State Teachers’ College (now Appalachian State University). A couple from Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Ann and S.L. Whitaker, purchased the Bingham home and converted it into a restaurant. They named it after Daniel Boone, a legendary American pioneer and frontiersman who was part of the area’s role in the Revolutionary War. A receipt that still hangs in the general manager’s office shows the purchase of a brand new sign for the restaurant that cost the Whitaker’s $6.50. According to the date on the transaction between the Whitakers and the Buchanan and Ellis sign company, the Dan’l Boone Inn opened for business on Dec. 6, 1959.

1960s The restaurant operated successfully for several years, cooking up homemade meals and classic menu items that were served family style every day. As demand for the restaurant’s food and service increased with time, its owners completed a multitude of renovations in order to keep up. The main dining room was added in the early 1960s, as well as the long front porch in the late ’60s. 80

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July 2015

1980s Maintaining ownership, Wilson retired in ’81 and new investor Jim Paal assumed his responsibilities as general manager. Paal’s wife, Pat, joined the team, too, as a bookkeeper. Paal continued Wilson’s legacy and ran the business successfully. He trained Jeff Shellman, who began his career at the inn as a dishwasher in ’89, as his protégé.

1990s Shellman, who started working at the restaurant while pursuing a degree at ASU, learned the ins and outs of the business under the direction of Paal. After 15 years at the helm, Paal retired in ’96 and passed the reigns onto Shellman, who took over as general manager.

2000s After proving himself as a capable leader and devoting two decades of service to the inn, Shellman bought out a third party investor and joined Wilson and Paal as part owner of the Dan’l Boone Inn. Today, he still carries on the traditions that the Whitakers established for the restaurant more than 50 years ago.

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High Country Magazine

Longtime employees Geri Townsend (left), who works in the bake kitchen, and Shift Manager Peter Hess are shown inside the kitchen at the inn.

“For us, a regular customer is someone who comes in once a month or even once a year when they’re visiting,” Hess said. “We have one group that comes every Thanksgiving and makes their reservation for the next year while they’re here.” Shellman and his staff invite everyone to stop by and celebrate the rich traditions that make the inn so special. As a dedicated worker who has given his whole career to the restaurant, he hopes that all of his employees and his customers can learn something from his experience: “I think you need to love what you do. Don’t necessarily look for the biggest paycheck,” Shellman said. “You need to love what you and believe in the company that you work for. Many things about the restaurant, including staff size and hours of operation, change with the seasons, but one thing remains the same — whoever you are and wherever you’re from, you’ll fit right in and feel right at home at the Dan’l Boone Inn.

MORE ABOUT THE INN

An employee of Dan’l Boone Inn Barbara Huneycutt, works to prepare scratch-made biscuits for upcoming meals.

A member of the wait staff, Seleste Penley, delivers a hot home-style meal to guests in the main dining room at Dan’l Boone Inn. 82

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July 2015

Situated at 130 Hardin Street on the corner of U.S. Highways 321 and 421 in Boone, the restaurant’s convenient location makes it a great stop for folks who are passing through the area, visiting the campus of Appalachian State University or shopping in downtown Boone. The restaurant is open year-round and on several holidays, including Thanksgiving Day and the following weekend, when it usually brings in more customers than any other time of the year. During its peak summer season, between May and October, the inn operates from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. for lunch and dinner on weekdays. Breakfast is added to the menu on Saturdays and Sundays, when the inn is opened from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. There’s always a steady crowd for lunch and dinner at the inn, and it’s not unusual to see folks lined up out the door and wrapped around the building waiting to get a table. But with three dining rooms downstairs that can seat close to 130 people, and three more upstairs that can accommodate nearly 200, the inn has expertly organized plans for getting people in the door and minimizing wait times. “We do everything we can do make sure we’re worth the wait,” Shellman said. To learn more about the inn, visit www. danlbooneinn.com or call 828-264-8657.

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High Country Magazine

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FINE ART & ANTIQUES Local Artist Gallery

697 WEST KING STREET DOWNTOWN BOONE 828-264-6559 OLDWORLDGALLERIES.COM July 2015

High Country Magazine

NOT JUST A BIRD STORE

FUDGE!

Wild Bird & Gift Store

WingN’It

Mon-Sat 10-5:30 • Sun 11-4 • Closed Wed 441 Shawneehaw Avenue (Hwy 184)

828-898-5008

www.wingnitnc.com

Z X Antiques H O WA R D

Historic Downtown Boone

199 howard street, Boone, nC

828-262-1957

www.facebook.com/antiquesonhoward

Buy ~ sell ~ Consignment Furniture • tools • Vintage Clothing glasswear • Jewelry • PrimitiVes High Country Magazine

BOONE. With a varied mix of stylish, name-brand establishments, such as Belk, JC Penny, TJ Maxx, Panera Bread Company, The Gamefather, Bath and Body Works, Radio Shack, Old Navy, Black Bear Books and much more, it’s no wonder Boone Mall is called “The Hub of the High Country.” With ample parking and long hours of operation, the Boone Mall is the one-stop shop for all your shopping needs and basic necessities. Need your hair styled or nails cured? Check out Regis Hair Salons and Mi Nails; Shoes? The Shoe Department; Glasses or contacts? Blue Ridge Vision; Jewelry? Saslo Jewelers; A four wheeler? Brushy Mountain Motorsports. The list is endless. Where else can you do all of that and grab a bite to eat? What other fantastic shops are there? Well, there’s Claire’s, Cookies ‘n Cream, GNC, Hallmark, Maurice’s, Primo’s Pizza Pasta & Subs, RUE-21, Sagesport, Sears, Super Clips, South’s Clothiers, Sports Fanatic, Tucker’s Cafe and much more. The Boone Mall is centrally located with entrances off of N.C. 105 and U.S. 321. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.  828-264-7286. www.booneshoppingmall.com. See ad on page 84

CARLTON GALLERY

“From Tools to Tiaras”

ing Rock Frameworks and Gallery was created. The gallery has grown into a growing core of internationally recognized artists, setting the standard in the in the High Country for Fine Art for first time visitors and seasoned collectors. Blowing Rock Frameworks and Gallery also offers art placement and hanging services as well as custom picture framing and finishing. n 828-295-0041. www.blowingrockgalleries.com. See ad on page 67

BOONE MALL

Downtown Banner Elk

local shopping GUIDE

July 2015

BANNER ELK. One of the most established fine art galleries in North Carolina, Carlton Gallery features a spirited collection of artwork in a casually elegant atmosphere. Celebrating over 30 years of business in the High Country, owner Toni Carlton selects creations from traditional to contemporary and features a wide variety of fine art and upscale handmade crafts by over 200 local, regional and national artisans. From extraordinary blown glass and

exceptional pottery to designer jewelry and original paintings in oil, watercolor, acrylic and mixed media, we offer an array of exceptional gift ideas for visitors and collectors, alike. Workshops are conducted by gallery artists in oils, acrylics, watercolor, drawing, expressive and intuitive arts and mixed media collage. These workshops include traditional and abstract landscapes, still life, figurative and visionary. The Carlton Gallery is on Hwy. 105 in the Grandfather Community.  828-963-4288. www.carltonartgallery. com. See ad on page 9

CONSIGNMENT COTTAGE WAREHOUSE NEWLAND. Owned and operated by Shannon Seiz, Consignment Cottage Warehouse, is the High Country’s most unique shopping experience. They specialize in previously-loved upscale furniture and home décor. Their inventory arrives at the store from homes, estates, and interior designers from all over the High Country of Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee, and is well displayed for maximum exposure on the showroom floor. Because their inventory changes regularly, so does the layout and selection in the store. All items are clean and complete as possible with covers, hardware, brackets, etc. All furniture is previewed and accepted before it is delivered to The Consignment Cottage Warehouse. Because The Consignment Cottage Warehouse reserves the right to refuse any item, they feel their jury system provides for the very best in fine furnishings; it is their goal to consign and sell only high quality pre-owned furniture and accessories. Every visit to Consignment Cottage Warehouse is a new adventure in consignment furniture shopping. Stop by regularly and take a look around to see what’s new.  828-733-8148. www.theconsignmentcottagewarehouse.com. See ad on page 27

The dande lion BANNER ELK. The Dande Lion, Inc., established in 1997, is near Banner at the Shoppes of Tynecastle, which is across the street from Lowes Grocery Store shopping center. The store has grown from its first small (really small!) location up the road on Highway 105, to a

quaint location in Foscoe, to our latest location at The Shoppes of Tynecastle in Banner Elk. The goal of The Dande Lion has always been to provide a wonderful shopping experience for each woman who passes through the door; it is our desire to provide the best shopping experience in the mountains. We want each woman to walk away with more than a shopping bag of new clothes. We specialize in personal shopping, assessing the preferences of each customer and then creating an outfit that fits their personality and body perfectly. Jane, the store owner and buyer, works very hard to create outfits from head to toe. At markets, she works diligently to find the perfect handbag, jewelry and shoes to match every outfit! For a truly uplifting experience, please visit the store. The beautiful clothing and ambiance coupled with the wonderful staff will certainly make you glad you did!  828-898-3566. www.dandelionstyles.com. See ad on page 41

DEWOOLFSON FOSCOE. When you spend one-third of your life sleeping, a quality down pillow, comforter and/or feathered bed is one of the best investments for a rejuvenating, restful sleep. DeWoolfson is a High Country business, born and bred. Although DeWoolfson imports a variety of fabrics and goose down fills from Eastern Europe, the business’s office, store and factory are located in Foscoe, supplying European-influenced down and products and fine linens to the world’s most comfortable sleepers. Custom comforters and the other products are made to order and shipped within 24 to 48 hours all over the High Country, nation and world. DeWoolfson also stocks one of the largest selections of luxury European linens found anywhere – from France, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, and other locales. These include well-known names such as Abyss and Habidecor, Matouk, Sferra, Yves Delorme and many more. Good night and sleep tight.  800833-3696. www.dewoolfsondown.com and www.dewoolfsonlinens.com. See ad on page 26

DOE RIDGE POTTERY BOONE. The reasonably-priced pottery is stunning, the form and color exceptional. Bob Meier fell in love with pottery in 1973 after taking a ceramics course on a whim to fill his class schedule at ASU. In 1988, he initially established his July 2015

High Country Magazine

l o c a l s h o p p i n g GUI D E studio out of his home on Doe Ridge Road, and since then, Doe Ridge Pottery has moved to a few different locations in Boone. Today, the workshop/ gallery is located in downtown Boone and hundreds of beautiful pieces decorate the gallery, which is home to 18 other talented artists – from functional pieces that are safe for food, drink, ovens, microwaves and dishwashers to home decor such as lamps and vases. Also, several specialty items exist, such as handmade sinks and the unusual vegetable steamer. A trip to the gallery sometimes feels like a field trip. The studio is visible from the gallery, and if you walk in at the right time, you may see potters in action. “I enjoy the process of making things in series where you’re making the same thing over and over again,” Meier said. “You can almost let your mind wander and it’s like a mantra. You get into a zone or Zenlike state. It’s a nice place to be because you get into this rhythm of work that creates a calming, metaphysical zone.” Doe Ridge Pottery is located at 585 West King Street below The Bead Box.  828-264-1127. www.doeridgepottery. homestead.com. See ad on page 84

DREXEL GRAPEVINE ANTIQUES BOONE. Drexel Grapevine Antiques carries a wide selection of antiques and collectibles. Everything from local North Carolina pottery, militaria, antique fishing tackle, plus much more. They sell in store, online, as well as through antique mall booths near Boone, North Carolina. The newly-opened antique shop is located between Boone and Blowing Rock, on US Highway 321. One mile north of Tweetsie Railroad, three miles north of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Owner Jeff Savage is also an auctioneer, licensed in North Carolina, and an appraiser.  828-386-1811. www.drexelantiques. com. See ad on page 90

Hardin FINE Jewelry BANNER ELK. Hardin Jewelry in scenic Banner Elk is a must for any lover of fine jewelry, or for anyone who is just curious about beautiful pieces. This local jewelry destination specializes in unique gems, dazzling diamonds and eclectic gifts for that special someone. It is also a must see shop if you just feel like indulging yourself a little! Their elegant jewelry showroom showcases the best in 88

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fine gems. Featured at the shop are rare, precious and semi-precious gemstones in exquisite settings. This lovely little shop, located just down the road, is the perfect place to find just what you’ve been looking for in a new piece of fine jewelry.  828-898-4653. See ad on page 33

Lilian Jade BOONE. Consign … If it’s collectable, whimsical, exceptional or valuable and you’re not using it, we probably have a customer for it. All we ask is for your items to be clean, in good condition, and look like new. That’s what you would want, right? We can arrange for pick up of your furniture and larger home accessory items. This is not “thrift” shopping. Lilian Jade is the crème de la crème of designer recycled furniture and home accessories. n 828-355-9995. See ad on page 89

MAST GENERAL STORE BOONE & VALLE CRUCIS. Imagine downtown Boone or Valle Crucis without a Mast General Store. It’s almost inconceivable. The store is a tour de force. Whether snow is on the ground or the leaves are green, yellow red or orange, more visitors pack into the Mast General Store locations in the High Country than they do The Rock during an ASU football game. The stores are packed with the highest-of-quality goods that range from rugged apparel and gourmet kitchenware to old-fashioned toys and women’s fashions that it is also inconceivable to leave the store empty handed. Oh, and don’t forget about the Candy Barrel. Especially if you are looking for a special gift for a special somebody (even if that person is you!), be sure to stop in on your next visit to the High Country. It’s an experience guaranteed to be pleasing. Not only has Mast General Store revived the downtowns that it inhabits, but the Mast General Store Family have been good stewards of the High Country and good neighbors to the so many that call the High Country home. Two locations exist – one on N.C. 194 in Valle Crucis and one in downtown Boone.  828963-6511 in Valle Crucis and 828-2620000 in Boone. www.mastgeneralstore. com. See ad on page 11

MONKEES BLOWING ROCK. Monkee’s of Blowing Rock is a ladies store beyond your

“girlie” imagination, known to carry the finest lines in shoes, clothing and accessories. You can be assured, if you find it at Monkee’s, it’s the most “in” thing. At Monkee’s you will experience boutique shopping as it is meant to be – fun and personal. Their associates have an incredible eye for style and are dedicated to delivering world-class customer service. Beautifully renovated in January 2013, the locally owned boutique is all about helping ladies walk out feeling beautiful and looking their best. So come by Monkee’s in Blowing Rock to enjoy a truly personalized shopping experience in one of the High Country’s most beautiful shopping districts. You’re sure to find that unique piece for your wardrobe or that perfect gift for someone special.  828-295-0708. www.monkessofblowing rock.com. See ad on page 20

MOUNTAIN DOG FOSCOE. Mountain Dog is dedicated to the health, happiness, and well being of dogs and cats. We’re easy to reach from anywhere in the Boone area, below Grandfather Mountain in the stately stone house in Foscoe. The store’s diverse brands of foods, treats, and nutritionals are human grade and contain no harmful ingredients or undigestible fillers. Mountain Dog is an environmentally oriented store with certified organic, recycled, and fair trade products. We carry toys, grooming supplies, a wide variety of unique beds, bowls, travel accessories, outdoor gear for the mountain dog-owner lifestyle, and many other products not found in the average “pet store.”  828-963-2470. www.mountaindogandfriends.com. See ad on page 101

old World galleries BOONE. Beginning with a few hundred dollars and a dream a few decades ago in Blowing Rock, Charlie and Joy Travis of Old World Galleries quickly established themselves as the go-to experts for clients in the High Country for estate jewelry, custom pieces and repair and appraisal. After taking a decade off from the retail side of things, the Travis’ have finally returned to the High Country to help keep up their established relationships and forge new friendships as well at their new location in downtown Boone. Come find out what has made Charlie and Joy Travis synonymous

Enjoy our CoffEE Bar

with quality, service and satisfaction and visit Old World Galleries in Boone for all of your jewelry needs. Their new showroom and friendly service will ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for, from a family heirloom estate piece to a beautiful gift for that someone special.  828-264-6559. www.oldworldgalleries. com. See our ad on page 85

oPEN DOOR blowing rock. The Open Door is a fair trade shop, that focuses there beautiful products from different regions of Africa. Some of the items include Zulugrass Jewelry (that’s right its made from grass) your purchase brings work directly to women in Kenya 5% of the sales goes back to support health and education. Telephone wire baskets are vibrant colors and refined shapes are hallmarks of this art. Swaziland sisal jewelry ,only a select few weavers have the skills to create this intricately woven pieces. Also, many different shape baskets from Ghana and Senegal. Purses, wood carvings and more amazing crafts that you won’t want to miss. A percent of your purchase will support orphans in the Nuba Mountains of Sudan. Come check out the new location in Blowing Rock - 1179 Main St., South Marke.  941-258-0206. See our ad on page 84

Unique furniture, housewares, art, jewelry, boutique clothing and accessories. Come see the variety of items for your home or office decor.

perry’s gold mine WEST JEFFERSON. Within a week of a chance visit to West Jefferson, a Charlotte Jeweler of over 32 years, Coleman Perry, bought a building on Main Street to house the second location of Perry’s Gold Mine. They specialize in Diamonds, Antique and Estate Jewelry at 40-70% off retail prices. They carry a large selection of loose diamonds in all carat sizes as well as semi-mounts, diamond bands, pendants, wedding bands, bracelets, diamond earrings, brooches and more. Colored stones, watches, pearls, karat gold and sterling silver are also part of the extensive inventory selection. They buy Gold, Silver, Platinum and Estate Jewelry daily. Consignments and layaways are available. Next door to the West Jefferson showroom is their auction house which conducts regular auctions during the season. Check their website at www.perrysgoldmine.com for details. The West Jefferson store is open Thursday thru Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm in the summer and most days Coleman himself, who loves the moun-

Now accepting donations to benefit

Feed All Regardless of Means REAL. GOOD. FOOD.

STORE HOURS: Tuesday-Saturday 11- 4 Consignment by Appointment Only

196 Perkinsville Drive, Boone, NC • 828.355.9995 consign@LilianJade.com July 2015

High Country Magazine

Drexel Grapevine Antiques

local shopping GUIDE tains, is on site to provide friendly, knowledgeable, professional service and advice.  336-846-2274. www. perrysgoldmine.com. See ad on page 16

Serves you right

Collectibles, NC Pottery, China, Glass, Antique Fishing & More

Jeff Savage OWNER / OPERATOR Between Boone & Blowing Rock

1 mile north of Tweetsie Railroad 3 miles north of Blue Ridge Parkway

3451 US Hwy 321S, Blowing Rock, nc

(828) 386-1881

blowing rock. One of Blowing Rock’s largest and most diverse stores. Gifts and essentials for entertaining. They have the area’s funniest cards, beverage napkins, novelties and books. Beautiful dinnerware and serving accessories, plus a BBQ, picnic and tailgate department. SYR’s new division: Their Cuti-que, Infant & Children’s Boutique with exceptional quality gift, games, books, toys and cool kid favorites ... a Grandparent’s mecca! Featuring the biggest selection in the mountains of paper, party goods for entertaining, gifts & essentials for kitchen, table and bar. Famous names such as Herend, Glen, Melissa and Doug, Root Candles and more. n 800-825-1828 or 828-2954438. See ad on page 57

THE SHOPPES AT FARMER’S HARDWARE

www.drexelantiques.com

BOONE. Some places in downtown Boone are iconic and provide a link to the past. Think Boone Drug, Appalachian Twin Theater and Farmer’s Hardware. All three, which have been quintessential to downtown for decades, have had to adapt to the changes and pressures of technology and big-box stores. Farmer’s Hardware, which originally opened in 1924 as a hardware retailer, closed its doors in 2004, changed its business model and reopened the next summer as an eclectic emporium called The Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware. The Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware has more than 100 shops and features a wide variety of merchandise including jewelry, handbags, totes, footwear, apparel, baby gifts, handcrafts, framed art, home décor, furniture, toys, stringed instruments, kitchenware, birdfeeders and much more.  828-264-8801. www.shoppesatfarmers.com. See ad on page 87

SUPERIOR SPAS BOONE. “Your backyard specialist.” A Jacuzzi 5 star dealer and a top Connelly Billiards Dealer. We also carry Big Green Egg Grills, game tables, pool chemicals, pool, spa and billiard accessories. We pride ourselves with our 90

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service and our customers tell us we do an excellent job at it. “Excellent service from the moment we walked through the door. Not pushy which was very important to us. Great service in delivering spa. We have called with umpteen questions and are treated with the same level of attention.”  828-9636624. www.superior-spas.com. See ad on page 61

Tatum Galleries BANNER ELK. A fresh, new vision for your office or home– that’s what Sally and Steve Tatum have, for decades, offered the High Country with their “Home Décor Center,” known as Tatum Galleries in Banner Elk. Since it opened nearly 30 years ago, the showroom has expanded to 6,000 square feet and includes indoor and outdoor furniture, bedding, floor, wall and window treatment and a huge collection of lamps, artwork, decorative accessories and other unique furnishings. With a seasoned interior design team, the staff offers years of experience and a variety of styles and choices that can accommodate all design needs and budgets – not to mention great service! The vast collection that Tatum Galleries offers will accentuate your home with timeless furnishings. Whether you need a little direction or a complete revamping, Tatum Galleries can help. Let their beautifully decorated showroom spark your imagination and introduce you to the possibilities that await you inside your home. Tatum Galleries is located at 5320 N.C. 105 in Banner Elk.  828963-6466. www.tatumgalleries.com.

See ad on this page 21

WINGn’IT BANNER ELK. WingN’It is “Your Local Wild Bird & Gift Store” with an eclectic mix for indoor and outdoor decorating! We have the largest collection of wild bird houses, feeders and bird baths in the mountains. BUT, we’re NOT JUST A BIRD STORE! From wind chimes on the porch, to flags in the garden, whirligigs in the yard, and a balancer or two bobbing across the lawn - we are your source! Think of us first for all your GIFTS!! And, don’t forget the CREAMY FUDGE!! Located in “The Little Red Caboose,” Downtown Banner Elk.  828-898-5008. www.wingnitnc.com. See ad on page 86

HCPress.com “I heard a guy once explain the beauty of a newspaper. The newspaper, he said, was an adventure through your hometown, and as you flipped through the paper you never knew what you might find on the next page. That’s what made the local paper a part of your life, and that’s what we hope our website can still be – a window to our local communities where our readers are always finding something new as they scroll down our front page.” – Ken Ketchie

We'll bring you great local journalism right to your computer . With 35 years of experience covering the news, the events and the stories that have been the High Country, you can count on HCPress.com to keep you up-to-date with what's going on. July 2015

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Now, with our website, we have an unlimited amount of space to bring you all the stories, with all the

Postcards from the Ridge

Two High Country Collectors Share T heir Bounty

By Allison West Photography by Sarah Weiffenbach

here are all sorts of harebrained theories as to what drives us, as human beings, to collect things – from the popular, such as stamps and comic books, to the bizarre, like Troll dolls and belly button fluff (no kidding), our obsessions certainly can fill a room … or three. (More rooms than that, however, and you’ve definitely crossed over into hoarding territory.) Psychoanalysts have un-ironically suggested that our primal need to acquire stuff is motivated by such factors as an existential need to maintain an identity even after we’re dead; an attempt to seek comfort in belongings after surviving a loveless childhood; or (and this is the best) a way for a man to attract potential mates by signaling his ability to 92

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accumulate resources. Mmmkay. I’ve yet to meet someone who tells me she was lured by her current mate’s whopping collection of Daleks. Two local collectors – longtime pals Web Alexander and David Harwood – also consider those speculations as nothing more than psychological mumbo jumbo. Deadpans Harwood, “Had I been collecting postcards when I met [my wife] Gina, she would have never dated me.” Alexander uses basic math in his rebuttal: “I’ve been married for 25 years, and I’ve only had postcards 12 years or so. So I would say the postcards did not help me in that realm.” Simply put, Alexander and Harwood – longtime friends whose quick-witted,

teasing rapport is the reason Alexander’s wife Beth refers to them as a “comedy duo” – collect postcards for one reason: they like them. It’s also, as far as collections go, a space-friendly one (hello, shoe boxes, plastic covers and 3-ring binders), and as far as hobbies go, a cheap one. Most postcards can be purchased for 50 cents to a dollar each. Extremely rare finds can run in the hundreds of dollars. “But no one’s collecting or selling postcards to get rich,” says Alexander. In fact, he marvels at the fact collecting postcards is even a thing. “I’m amazed people save them. Who saves mail?” Between them, the pair has amassed through ebay and the occasional show along the East Coast an impressive collec-

Longtime pals Web Alexander (left) and David Harwood collect postcards for one reason: they like them. It’s also, as far as collections go, a space-friendly one (hello, shoe boxes, plastic covers and 3-ring binders), and as far as hobbies go, a cheap one. Most postcards can be purchased for 50 cents to a dollar each. Between them, the pair has amassed an impressive collection of approximately 4,000 postcards. tion of approximately 4,000 postcards, the majority of which focus on the Blue Ridge region. And while he credits Harwood with sparking his interest in the medium, Alexander would certainly want it noted that he has the clear edge; about 2,500 are his. With both men concentrating their collections on cards of the High Country and surrounding areas, it’s safe to say that what began as a shared common interest is now a fierce – albeit friendly – competition. Explains Harwood, “I would guess I covet approximately five percent of Web’s collection. He’s always showing up with stuff I didn’t know existed and I have no idea how he got it. I like having cards that he wants and I suspect the feeling is mutual even though he won’t admit it.” Counters Alexander, a graduate of Wake Forest University who has lived in Blowing Rock and/or Boone for the last 20 years, “Mr. Harwood has a couple of cards I would really like. I saw one the other night that I had never seen before.

I can tell you that I don’t have any cards in my collection that David wants because he has already swindled the ones he wanted away from me.” In a last ditch attempt to maintain the edge, he continues, “I don’t recommend trying to buy or sell anything to David because he is really sneaky.” While the core of Alexander’s cards depict local scenes and landmarks of Boone, Blowing Rock, Appalachian State University, Westglow, Lenoir, Montreat and even Chapel Hill, all dating predominantly from the early 1900s to the 1940s, years ago he extended his reach to include a series of about 200 Coca-Cola cards (the common thread of which is a sign of the famous soda placed somewhere in a cityscape) and gorgeous shots of rhododendrons. The affable collector – who only moonlights as such; during the day he is the manager of the Customer Service Dept. Call Center at Cheap Joe's Art Stuff in Boone -- also recently amassed what he deems

"No one’s collecting or selling postcards to get rich. I’m amazed people save them. Who saves mail?” – Web Alexander

July 2015

High Country Magazine

"A Birds Eye View" "Blowing Rock. N.C. (Altitude 4030 feet)" circa 1915 This is a view of Main Street, Blowing Rock looking towards Flat Top Mountain. David Harwood

"Auto Road along Grandfather Mountain" "Elevation 5964 feet, 'in the Land of the Sky' near Asheville, N.C." circa 1912 This card's description says near Asheville, but it is near current day Highway 221, near Linville. Grandfather Mountain is in the distance. David Harwood

"Road Scene" "Green Park, N.C." Hand-Colored circa 1920 This card is a view of Pinnacle Drive in current day Blowing Rock. David Harwood

High Country Magazine

July 2015

TOP: "America's Switzerland" "The unrivalled Blowing Rock County, The famous 'Blowing Rock' (altitude 4090 feet) near Blowing Rock, N.C." circa 1909. DAVID HARWOOD BOTTOM: "Presbyterian Church" "Lenoir N.C." The back addressed to Professor B.B. Dougherty, the original President at Appalachian Training School. circa 1905. Web ALEXANDER "the finest collection of Davidson College postcards in the world", all because he thought his daughter, Katie, who graduated from Watauga High School in May, would attend the liberal arts college. The joke’s on him, however; she didn't even apply. “Now I don’t know what to do with them,” he laments sarcastically. (Hey, calling all Stephen Curry fans…) Harwood, the Business Manager at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum, began collecting cards of Blowing Rock in the early ‘90s when he and his family still lived in Raleigh; the couple, he a North Carolina State University alum and she a Meredith grad, moved to Blowing Rock in 1999. But he recognizes that "at some point you feel like you've gotten about all of them. You run out of those cards to collect." So Harwood, a history buff, refined his Internet searches and began to procure cards that spotlighted both areas -- Asheville, Albemarle, Raleigh, Beaufort – and iconic landmarks – the Statue of Liberty, 1950s Jeeps -- that intrigued him. Truthfully, he says, “From apples to

zeppelins, there is a category of postcards for almost anyone. Erotic, black Americans, advertising…” Postcard collecting, known as deltiology, experienced a Golden Age in the

United States between 1898 and 1919 — which incidentally, notes Harwood, coincides with the final years of Moses Cone’s life (he died in 1908), and the completion of Flat Top Manor in 1901. It’s the early

Web shows off one of his cards to David. Postcard collecting is known as deltiology July 2015

High Country Magazine

"Mayview Manor" "Blowing Rock, North Carolina" Published by Blowing Rock Drug Company circa 1920 I love this rare card of Mayview Manor Hotel It was one of the Grand Old Hotels of Blowing Rock. WEB ALEXANDER

"Westglow" circa early 1900's This card was given to me by a good friend. One of the things I like about it is it does not have any description of Westglow on the card. WEB ALEXANDER

"On the Boone Road" "Near Blowing Rock, N.C." circa early 1900's This old rock is still visible today on Highway 221 about halfway between Linville and Blowing Rock. david harwood

High Country Magazine

July 2015

This is the old Newland Hall on the ASU Campus. Back is addressed to I. G. Greer. I.G. Greer is who the I.G. Greer Hall is named for. circa 1911. web alexander collectors we have to thank for the large supply of antique postcards available for today’s enthusiasts. A popular outlet for men and women of all ages, cards of that era were a way to keep in touch with friends and family, to send well wishes or sorrows, or to use as a form of courtship. The post-WWII travel boon found tourists picking up free scenic cards of popular vacation spots from hotels and restaurants. In fact, a 1947 article in Coronet magazine reported that “Send-

ing picture post cards to the folks back home is a great American pastime.” By the late 20th Century, however, collectors became more specialized, with many even refusing to consider any card made after 1920. As real photo postcards increased in value (be it monetary or nostalgic) due to their historical significance, postcards of the 1980s were as gaudy as the decade from which they emerged, featuring pop culture subjects and topics of the period – from Garfield and Care Bears to political

cartoons. Today’s vintage postcard collectors tend to have a particular focus on themes, such as portraits of movie stars or musicians, wartime imagery, artists’ renderings or images of natural disasters. Or, like Alexander and Harwood, vintage shots of the place they call home, such as Harwood’s black-and-white of The Blowing Rock, postmarked Sept. 5, 1907; a lovingly wistful card of a tree-lined, unpaved Blowing Rock Main Street; or

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High Country Magazine

"Green Park Hotel" "Elevation 4,300 Feet. R. H. Harper, Manager. On the dividing ridge between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. The head spring of the Yadkin River is near n the one side while the New River or the Great Kanawa spring is only a short distance on the other side. Blowing Rock is 1-4 mile distant." circa 1909 david harwood

"Entrance to Cone Estate" "Blowing Rock, N.C." Written in white very faint on bottom of card circa early 1900's This is now very close to the entrance to Bass LAke on Highway 221 web alexander

"Blowing Rock, N.C." circa 1907 Seasonal residents enjoying a cool summer day. DAVID HARWOOD

High Country Magazine

July 2015

"Had I been collecting postcards when I met [my wife] Gina, she would have never dated me” – David Harwood

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336-973-8640 a carefully preserved envelope addressed by Bertha Cone to Gertrude Weil dated Sept. 26, 1912. Although those types of regionally specific cards become increasingly harder to find, it certainly doesn’t mean that either man is going to give up the search. “The hunt is half the fun,” insists Harwood. Plus, points out Alexander, “I’m always hoarding something, it might as well be postcards.” Both gentlemen used to spend much more time pursuing new and unique cards – though one gets the sense the motivation was strictly to find any card the other one didn’t have and then delightfully wave it in the other man’s face. What was once a oneto two-hour nightly Internet quest in their early heyday has been whittled down to 30-minute searches about once a week, as well as the aforementioned trips to expos, where the middle-aged duo mingles with other deltiologists that trend toward a certain demographic: “Mid-70s, usually male and super serious about cards,” chuckles Harwood. “Seriously, we’re the youngest attendees. I worry that deltiology is dying.” To make things more difficult, our particular geographical location definitely

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High Country Magazine

TOP: "New River Light and Power Co. Plant" Located 1 ½ miles from BOONE, N.C. This card shows the New River Light & Power Plant. The remnants of this plant are on the fork of the New River off the Greenway, here in Boone. circa 1920. web alexander

Today’s vintage postcard collectors tend to have a particular focus on themes, such as portraits of movie stars or musicians, wartime imagery, artists’ renderings or images of natural disasters. Or, like Alexander and Harwood, vintage shots of the place they call home, such as Harwood’s black-and-white of The Blowing Rock, postmarked Sept. 5, 1907; a lovingly wistful card of a tree-lined, unpaved Blowing Rock Main Street; or a carefully preserved envelope addressed by Bertha Cone to Gertrude Weil dated Sept. 26, 1912.

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doesn’t make it easy on budding collectors. “[The High Country] area is the black hole for postcards,” admits Alexander. “You have to drive four, five, six hours to go to a really good show. You have to want to go. But David is my best friend and one of my favorite things is to go to a show with him. We just have fun digging through all the old boxes of junk.” They also employ what they refer to as the “Let’s Stay Friends System.” If one unearths a card either online or catalogued at a show, it’s his moral responsibility to alert the other one. And it may or may not be written in their respective wills that each has “first dibs” on the other’s cards should one of them unexpectedly – or mysteriously – pass away. In the event of Alexander’s demise, Harwood may want to hurry, as Katie has other plans. “I’m going to put them on ebay, back where they belong,” she laughs. So in their collective nearly 35-year search, is there a certain card that has eluded them, their paper Moby Dick? The answer is a resounding yes. And, no surprise here, they both seek the same card from the same man, one who happens to be a local legend. Says Harwood quite specifically, “The Holy Grail would be a 1900s Blowing Rock postcard with a Blowing Rock postmark with a note and signature of Moses [Cone] and addressed to one of his Industrial Revolution Titan buddies like Alfred du Pont.” Alexander concurs: “That would be the best of the best for me. I would like to find one that was mailed to or from [Blowing Rock artist] Elliot Daingerfield as well.” Then comes Alexander’s winking parting shot, “As a general rule, the ones that are my most favorite are the ones that I have … that David wants.”  July 2015

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A Cleaner World............................................... 265-1888 �� 71 Abingdon, Virginia....................................... 888-489-4144........................ 81 Alta Ridge Foot Specialists............................... 386-1849........................... 60 Alta Vista Gallery.............................................. 963-5247........................... 41 Antiques on Howard......................................... 262-1957........................... 86 Appalachian Blind & Closet Co........................ 264-1395............................. 6 Art Cellar......................................................... 898-5175 �� 13 Ashe County Arts Council............................. 336-846-ARTS........................ 61 Banner Elk Realty............................................. 260-1550........................... 60 Barnette Builders.............................................. 898-2378........................... 59 Barter Theatre.............................................. 276-628-3991........................ 81 Beech Mountain Brewing Company.............. 800-438-2093........................ 48 BJ's Resort Wear.............................................. 898-4229........................... 34 Blind Squirrel Brewery............................ 765-2739 & 765-9696................. 66 Blowing Rock Estate Jewelry............................ 295-4500......................... 101 Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery................ 295-0041........................... 67 Boone Bagelry......................................262-5585 and 262-1600................ 50 Boone Mall...................................................... 264-7286........................... 84 Canyons.......................................................... 295-7661 �� 50 Carlton Gallery................................................. 963-4288 �� 9 Carolina West Wireless................................. 800-235-5007 . ..................... 15 Casa Rustica.................................................... 262-5128 �� 47 Celeste's.......................................................... 295-3481......................... 103 Chestnut Grille at Green Park Inn...................... 414-9230........................... 43 Consignment Cottage Warehouse..................... 733-8148........................... 27 Dacchille Construction..................................... 964-5150............................. 3 Dande Lion...................................................... 898-3566........................... 41 DeWoolfson Down ...................................... 800-833-3696 �� 26 Dianne Davant & Associates . .......................... 898-9887 ��Inside Front Cover Doe Ridge Pottery............................................ 264-1127 �� 84 Drexel's Antiques............................................. 386-1881........................... 90 Eat Crow.......................................................... 963-8228........................... 44 Echota......................................................... 800-333-7601 �� Back Cover Eseeola Lodge.................................................. 733-4311........................... 49 F.A.R.M. Café.................................................. 386-1000........................... 46 Flora Ottimer.................................................... 898-5112........................... 90 Gamekeeper..................................................... 963-7400 �� 21 Grandfather Vineyard & Winery......................... 963-2400............................. 5 Haircut 101...................................................... 262-3324........................... 13 Hardin Fine Jewelry.......................................... 898-4653 �� 33 Highland ProClean........................................... 733-5089........................... 33 Isley Construction Company................... 898-7544 & 898-7119................. 66 Kuester Companies.......................................... 262-3434........................... 31 Lilian Jade Fine Consign.................................. 355-9955........................... 89

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LiLu Interiors.................................................... 719-5700........................... 69 Linville Falls Winery......................................... 765-1400........................... 39 Linville Land Harbor......................................... 733-8300........................... 18 Linville Ridge............................................... 888-725-1239........................ 35 Local, The........................................................ 266-2179........................... 51 Mast General Store .....................................866-FOR-MAST �� 11 Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt.................................. 386-1765........................... 44 Monkees of Blowing Rock................................ 295-0708........................... 20 Mountain Dog & Friends.................................. 963-2470......................... 101 Mountain Land............................................. 800-849-9225 �� 99 Mountain Tile................................................... 265-0472 �� 29 Mountaineer Landscaping................................ 733-3726 �� 4 Mustard Seed................................................... 295-4585........................... 83 Old World Galleries.......................................... 264-6559........................... 85 Open Door................................................... 941-258-0206........................ 84 Parkway Craft Center........................................ 295-7938........................... 83 Perry’s Gold Mine........................................ 336-846-2274........................ 16 Piedmont Federal Bank..................................... 264-5244............................. 1 Red Onion Café................................................ 264-5470........................... 51 River Dog Coffeehouse & Café......................... 733-9333........................... 44 Rock Dimensions............................................. 265-3544........................... 99 Rustique.......................................................... 295-9474........................... 47 Serves You Right!............................... 800-825-1828 & 295-4438.............. 57 Seven Devils.................................................... 963-5343........................... 58 Salem Windows & Doors................................. 356-7993........................... 97 Shannon's Curtain, Bed & Bath......................... 264-8321........................... 87 Shoppes at Farmers Hardware.......................... 264-8801........................... 87 Sister Lees Café............................................... 898-4000........................... 48 Six Pence......................................................... 295-3155........................... 49 Speckled Trout Cafe......................................... 295-9819........................... 46 Stone Cavern................................................... 963-8453 �� 2 Stone Jewelers................................................. 264-2000........................... 73 Sunalei............................................................ 263-8711.... Inside Back Cover Superior Spas.................................................. 963-6624........................... 61 Tanner-Doncaster Outlet................................... 295-4200............................. 7 Tatum Galleries & Interiors............................... 963-6466........................... 21 Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola................... 295-5505........................... 45 Todd Bush Photography................................... 898-8088 �� 79 Tricia Wilson Law Firm..................................... 733-1529............................. 9 Vidalia Restaurant............................................ 263-9176........................... 48 Watsonatta....................................................... 264-4540........................... 19 Weber, Hodges & Godwin................................ 264-0019............................. 5 Wellspring Retirement Community............... 800-547-5387........................ 17 WingN’It.......................................................... 898-5008........................... 86

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Parting Shot...

An Ode to Jane Ann Hodges

fter nearly 30 years as the Watauga County elections director, Jane Ann Hodges called it quits at the end of June. On June 27, a retirement party for Hodges was held at the Boone United Methodist Church and was hosted by Watauga County, the Watauga County Democratic and Republican parties, Donna Houck, Larry Henson, Sue Thomas, Caroleen Watson and Watauga County Board of Elections members Bill Aceto, Kathleen Campbell and Luke Eggers. Earlier this year, Hodges announced that she would be retiring this summer. She cited medical issues, such as several bouts with cancer and a desire to spend more time with her three “most precious” grandchildren, Gracie, 18, Judge, 12 and Emma, 11. For all of the dysfunction among the state-appointed board members Aceto, Campbell and Eggers, the veteran elections director remained steadfast in her mission to assist all citizens in the voting process – no matter the color or animal of their political party. “I feel that I am probably the most nonpartisan person that has ever been born,” Hodges said. “My blood would run … what is the mixture between red and blue?” Over the years, Hodges has had “knockdown drag out arguments” with the likes of Pam Williamson, a vocal Democrat 104

Lonnie Webster

High Country Magazine

July 2015

By Jesse Wood

in Watauga County, and other liberals and has been chastised behind the scenes by a Republican or two. It comes with the territory. When you stand in the middle, you are likely to get hit from both sides. She said that some of her best friends are both Republicans and Democrats, and she mentioned unnamed enemies across the aisles. “I take that as an accomplishment, too. That shows I am doing my job, and I do it in a fair, nonpartisan way,” Hodges said. The last couple years have been difficult – she was stripped of her duties by the local elections board in 2013 and endured a litany of nonsense that a person of her character and experience shouldn’t have to put up with – but Hodges preferred to ride off into the sunset rather than harp on the recent past. Capping her three-months-shy-of-three-decades career at the helm of local elections, her peers, the N.C. Association of Directors of Elections, awarded Hodges the inaugural Outstanding Director Award: “Jane Ann Hodges has always been professional, ethical, and has worked hard to give voting citizens elections that were fair and honest for the past 29 years. For Jane Ann, this is not just a job, but a commitment to serve the citizens of Watauga County and the State of North Carolina.”

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