History
The history of the area around Linville Falls Mountain Club & Preserve is rich with stories of tradition, perseverance and heritage. Native Americans discovered this area over 6,000 years ago, and the Cherokee Indian tribe still calls Western North Carolina their home. In the early 1700s, Scots-Irish pioneers settled here and formed a close community protected by a series of forts that remained active until the early 1800s. This was the western-most outpost prior to the Declaration of Independence. During the Revolutionary War, men marched through on the Over Mountain Victory Trail, which is still accessible today.
McDowell County
Between 1804 and 1827, the area contributed to North Carolina's gold legacy as the nation's leader in gold production. McDowell County was formally organized in 1843 at the home of Colonel John Carson. The county was named for Joseph McDowell, a prominent leader during the Revolutionary War, a hero of the Battle of King's Mountain, and a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1793 to 1795.
Linville Falls
Linville Falls marks the beginning of the Linville Gorge, wilderness area cut by the Linville River, which continues on after the falls before finally ending near Lake James. Legend has it that the falls were used by Native Americans to execute prisoners. No one is known to have survived a fall over the final plunge.
Historic Sites
Historic Carson House
Built in 1793 by Irish immigrant John Carson, the home has a rich history serving as the first county courthouse, a stagecoach inn and receiving guests such as Davey Crockett and Daniel Boone. The home is included in the NC Civil War Trails guide and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. Located at 1805 Highway 70 West in Marion and open May 1st through October 31st. For more information call 828-724-4948.
Mountain Gateway Museum
Located on Mill Creek this branch of the NC Museum of History interprets the area's history from the earliest inhabitants through the settlement period and into the twentieth century. The property includes a picnic area, amphitheater, two pioneer-era log cabins and the museum itself. Visit them at 102 Water Street in Old Fort. 828-668-9259.
Old Fort Train Station and Museum
Constructed in 1881, the recently renovated depot includes the McDowell County Tourism Authority and Visitor Center, a railroad museum and the Old Fort Chamber of Commerce. Exhibits and artifacts include a map of the seven hand-dug tunnels and nine miles of track positioned between the town of Old Fort and the top of Swannanoa Gap and the Eastern Continential Divide. One tunnel once held the record as the longest tunnel at 1800 feet. Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. 888-233-6111 or 828-668-4282. 25 West Main Street, Old Fort.
Joseph P. McDowell House
Built in 1787 by a son of "Hunting John" McDowell the founder of McDowell County. Joseph McDowell played a key role in the defeat of the British at Cowpens in January 1781 as well as serving as a member of the North Carolina Constitutional Convention in 1788 along with his service as a member of the 3rd U.S. Congress. Located at the intersection of Highway 70 Business and the Highway 221/226 By-Pass in Marion. The home is not open to the public at this time.
Andrews' Geyser
An Old Fort landmark, the geyser park commemorates its role during the peak of railroad history in western North Carolina. Once part of a popular tourist resort the park is listed in the N.C. Civil War Trails map noting one of the last skirmishes of the Civil War taking place close by at the base of the Swannanoa Gap. Today, the park is operated by the town of Old Fort with picnic areas along the picturesque Mill Creek.
Source: McDowell County Tourism. |
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Grand Opening Fall 2008
Special pricing and privileges available for early reservations.
Contact us or use the online property map to check availability.
Inquire now! 828-756-GOLF
Directions (only 90 minutes from Charlotte) |
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