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Historic Blue Ridge

Mountain Heritage Center

Visitors to the mountains of North Carolina can gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural and natural heritage of the southern Appalachian region at the Mountain Heritage Center, which is part of Western Carolina University in Cullowee, North Carolina.

A permanent exhibit tells the compelling story of the Scots-Irish migration into the mountains, while other galleries feature traveling exhibits with themes such as blacksmithing traditions, Cherokee myths and legends, the history of an Appalachian watershed, and the southern Appalachian handicraft movement.

Each fall, the Center presents Mountain Heritage Day, a combination old-fashioned mountain fair and showcase for authentic Southern Appalachian folk arts. With demonstrations and exhibitions of traditional mountain crafts and skills such as woodcarving, basket making, blacksmithing, quilting and weaving, the event is rated as one of the top 200 craft events in the United States. It also plays a vital role in linking generations and helping maintain the authentic folk arts of the mountains.

The Center publishes books, produces musical recordings, and hosts an educational series for local public school children and university students. Its collection of over 10,000 artifacts includes woodworking tools, textiles and early transportation equipment. Some of the Mountain Heritage Center's programming has been used by The Smithsonian Institution and the American Folklife Center of the Library of Congress.

Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday 8 am - 5 pm
Sunday 2 pm - 5 pm (June – October only)

The Center observes a university holiday schedule, so it is advisable to call ahead for information.

Admission Fees
Free.
*Prices are subject to change without notice & from what is listed on this website.

Location
The Mountain Heritage Center is located at the entrance to the campus of Western Carolina University, about 5 miles south of Sylva on NC 107.

Mountain Heritage Center
150 H. F. Robinson Administration Building
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC 28723
828-227-7129
http://www.wcu.edu/2389.asp