The Blowing Rock Historical Society
Preserving Our Historical Culture and Charm
About the Blowing Rock Historical Society
Since 1985, the Blowing Rock Historical Society has helped maintain the historic charm and culture that has made our village a delightful place to live, to visit, and to have a second home. While many things have changed over the years, there is so much that has remained the same and hopefully always will. Blowing Rock has always had a unique sense of place and a sense of community, and throughout its history, it has gladly shared those with visitors and summer "cottagers".
Learn more about the role of the Blowing Rock Historical Society and about our commitment to helping keep Blowing Rock the same Blowing Rock people have loved for over a century and a half. And you can help. Join us today. As a community service organization, we have fun events and we work to keep our Village the crown jewel of the Blue Ridge.
Our Mission
The Blowing Rock Historical Society’s mission is to identify, protect, and preserve the historical resources important to Blowing Rock’s heritage and to promote our history as a means of enhancing our village’s historic charm and culture.
Some Accomplishments
A little history of some things we have accomplished...
Restoring Edgewood Cottage
Edgewood Cottage c. 1890, was the first home of renowned artist Elliott Daingerfield. This structure was saved and adapted for reuse, primarily the Artist in Residence program and other events and activities.
Awarding Historical Markers
Co-sponsored with BRAHM, the Historic Marker Program has recognized Blowing Rock properties with historical significance.
Gaining National Recognition for the Blowing Rock NC Green Park Historic District
Green Park Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Publishing
We have published Post Cards of Historic Blowing Rock, Volumes I and II. These are collections of post cards from old Blowing Rock days depicting our village and vacations at various hotels and attractions.
Saving the Last Cottage From Blowing Rock's First Hotel (Now the 1888 Museum)
The 1888 Historical Hotel Cottage is the last remaining cottage of the Watauga Hotel. It was refurbished and houses a collection of items from the town’s history for visitors to enjoy.
Instituting Artists in Residence at Edgewood Cottage
This annual summer event began in 2010 as a way to use Elliott Daingerfield's origial home in a way that he would enjoy. Edgewood Cottage becomes an art studio for selected high country artists each summer, and attracts over 5,000 visitors.
Restoring Blowing Rock's First Fire Engine
This relic fire engine needed a lot of work and tender loving care. We raised the funds and recruited skilled workers to restore this beautiful vehicle. You can often see it in parades on Main St. with plenty of kids riding on it.
