Hendersonville appears firmly committed to preserve its
historic features even to the point of a very expensive
restoration of its courthouse. (Yes, it built a new one but the
old one with its gold dome is the psychological town center.
Downtown Hendersonville was entered into the National
Register of Historic Places in March of 1988 and has become a
vital part of the community’s economic and cultural growth. The
serpentine street features planter boxes brimming with seasonal
flowers, trees and thriving businesses such as speciality shops,
antique stores, boutiques and restaurants offering something for
everyone of all ages. The district has a history of tradition,
with hometown charm, playing host to the many activities —
including the North Carolina Apple Festival held during Labor
Day weekend, as well as art shows, street dances and parades
throughout the year.
The kids seem to love the bears
most of all. The 'bears' are molded from some kind of plastic or
fiberglass then painted in various styles for later auction
(proceeds go to charity).
The Western North Carolina Air Museum is the first air museum in
the state of North Carolina known as the “first in flight”
state. The museum features award winning restored and replica
antique and vintage airplanes.
(continued in column 2) |
(continued
from column 1)
In 1987 the Johnson brothers willed their farm and personal
possessions to the Henderson County Board of Public Education.
It was Vernon and Leander’s wish that the property become a
hands-on museum, a lasting example of a typical mountain farm
through which students could explore their heritage. The farm
was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
Hendersonville has been listed as one of The Best Small Towns in
America and cited by numerous publications as one of the best
retiree-friendly communities in the United States.
May is one of the best times of the year to hike in the mountains
of western North Carolina. The skies are crystal clear and you
can see for miles and miles and miles from almost any viewpoint
along the trail. There are not many bugs or mosquitoes to
irritate you this time of the year. Even so, there is still
plenty of wildlife out there to see. Bring your binoculars and
be surprised at almost every turn in the woods at what beautiful
animal you might run across.
One of the more exciting places to explore is the newly opened
DuPont State Forest. The Forest is located just 10 miles from
Hendersonville and provides some of the best hiking in western
North Carolina. |