From the stately front porch of manor in Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway can admire sweeping views of North Carolina's High Country and get a taste of what life here was like in the early 1900s.

Then...
Textile magnate Moses Cone and his wife Bertha had this elegant Colonial Revival mansion built in 1901 as their mountain retreat, Flat Top Manor. The 3,600 acres of land featured two lakes and 25 miles of carefully planned carriage roads. Sheep and cattle grazed on Flat Top Mountain and Rich Mountain. And tens of thousands of apple trees dotted the landscape.

And Now
After the death of Bertha Cone, the family offered the property to the Blue Ridge Parkway as a public park. The network of carriage roads now serve as popular trails for exploring the natural surroundings. From hikers to horseback riders to cross-country skiers, visitors enjoy them year-round.

Now called the Moses Cone Manor, the residence houses the Parkway Craft Center, open mid-March to the end of November. A variety of traditional and contemporary crafts are showcased inside, including hand-woven bags, jewelry and blown glass creations. Many items are available for purchase.

During the summer and fall, National Park Service staff give tours of the 23-room manor and lead guided walks to the Cone Cemetery. Special 75th Anniversary events will occur throughout 2010.

Moses Cone Manor's expansive front porch is a favorite focal point for learning more about this area and engaging in conversation. An artist may be demonstrating her craft, a member of the park staff may be giving a short talk, or travelers may be chatting while enjoying the view from the vantage point of a wooden rocker.

If you go:
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is located at Milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.

For more information: Visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.
Location on Blue Ridge Parkway Map



Related Articles:

Blue Ridge Parkway Showcases Cultural, Historic and Natural Attractions

America's Favorite Drive Celebrates 75th Anniversary

RV Travelers Have Numerous Campground Options On And Off The Parkway

Should You Drive The Blue Ridge Parkway In Your RV Or Not?



Return to RV Travel Attractions page.

Go to RV Site Reviews page.

Return to Publication Credits page.