2 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 3 4 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Welcome to Macon County! There’s a lot to love about Macon County, from its beauti- Macon County also offers the modern infrastructure and ful vistas and rugged mountains to its rich history and vibrant the amenities to support today’s connected lifestyles. Living culture. You won’t find a better place to “get away from it in a mountain paradise doesn’t mean that residents and visi- all” and still have easy access to the amenities of larger cities tors have to sacrifice the comforts found elsewhere. like Asheville and even Atlanta. This magazine is also your guide to making Macon your We’re confident that you’ll findInformation Please an in- home – the quality health care, the top-tier education, the dispensable roadmap to all that Macon has to offer. In these dedicated public safety organizations and the responsive pages you’ll find a guide to the great outdoors that defines governments. Macon life: its water-ways and waterfalls, its hiking and It all adds up to a quality of life you won’t find anywhere camping opportunities. else.
About Information Please All subscriptions include access to our e-edition.
This guide to Macon County is an annual publica- In Macon County ...... $30.00 per year tion of The Franklin Press. Established in 1886, The Outside Macon County ...... $50.00 per year Franklin Press, Macon County’s community newspaper, Seasonal Residents ...... $40.00 per year is published each Wednesday and Friday. Additional copies of Information Please are available online at thefranklinpress.com or at The Franklin Press Photos by: Linda Mathias & Franklin Press Staff office, 40 Depot Street, Franklin, NC. Cover photo by: Karen Lawrence To stay up to date on all the information and events Cover design by: Kasey Chambers in Macon County subscribe to The Franklin Press. Call (828) 524-2010 or subscribe at thefranklinpress.com. 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 5 Macon at a glance Macon County is home to more than 34,000 full-time residents. In a sense, however, the true population of the county is much higher. Because Macon contains so many second homes, the population increases during the late spring and summer months. The 516 square miles of Macon County include the towns of Franklin (the county seat) and Highlands, plus numerous smaller communities. The elevation ranges from 1,900 feet in the Little Tennessee River, to 4,118 feet in Highlands, to 5,500 feet near Standing Indian Campground. Temperatures vary from an average of 41 degrees in January, the coldest month, to an average of 78 degrees in July, the hottest. While the climate may be mild, there are still four distinct seasons. Average annual rainfall and Highlands also has the distinction its rural beauty, it is by no means iso- snowfall varies throughout the county of being one of the highest incorpo- lated. Franklin is situated along major due to the elevation changes. Franklin rated towns east of the Mississippi highways U.S. 23/441 and N.C. 64, averages just more than 54 inches of River. with easy access to interstates I-40, rainfall and 7 inches of snowfall. The The rugged mountains throughout I-26 and I-85. Atlanta is just 130 miles Highlands area, where elevations are the county boast plenty of woodlands, to the south; Knoxville is 110 miles to much higher, averages more than 70 and the rushing waters of the Cullasaja, the north and Asheville is just 65 miles inches of rainfall and an average snow- Little Tennessee and Nantahala rivers to the east. fall of about 12 inches — the greatest provide sources of power, natural beau- So, whether you live or play in this precipitation of any area east of the ty and recreation. area, everything you need is within Rocky Mountains. While Macon County is famous for your reach. Enjoy!
6 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 7 Macon through the centuries
Prehistoric inhabitants of what is now Macon County are thought to have built this mound in about 1000 AD. Called Nikwasi, the mound is still visible in Franklin. The Cherokee built a townhouse at the site when they migrated into the area in the 16th century. Nikwasi was a spiritual center, and the townhouse was used for councils and religious ceremonies.
Tracing the county’s rich cultural roots, from the Cherokee to pioneering settlers It’s been roughly 200 years since the first steps were tak- en to make Macon County into what it is today. And though the past has been dotted with some strife, the future has nev- er looked so bright. Macon County was a new frontier in 1819 when the Cherokee Indians, in a treaty concluded that year, gave up a large chunk of land extending as far west as the Nantahala ridge. The Cherokees held on to their remaining land un- til 1835, when their final treaty in North Carolina was ne- gotiated. Together, the two transactions transferred a huge territory that includes all of the present counties of Graham, Cherokee, Clay, Swain and Macon, along with part of Jackson and Transylvania counties. For a time, Macon County encompassed most of this area. As soon as word of the 1819 treaty got out, settlers rushed into the new territory, lured by the frontier promise of land and opportunity. They joined a handful of pioneers who had already put down roots here, trading with and, in some in- stances, intermarrying with the Cherokees. Legal ownership of land was not possible until after the huge territory was properly mapped and surveyed — a feat accomplished in 1820 under a survey party headed by Capt. Robert Love. The surveyors divided the region into 18 dis- tricts and laid out tracts of good land, mostly along the main
8 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 9 waterways. They also selected the site of the future coun- ty seat and named it for Jesse Franklin, a prominent North Carolina statesman and one of the commissioners charged with organizing the new territory. Settlement proceeded rapidly after the original land sale, which was held in Waynesville in the fall of 1820. Within eight years, the population was great enough to warrant es- tablishment of a new county — named for Nathaniel Macon, a prominent North Carolinian who had served in the U.S. Congress as both speaker of the House and president pro- tem of the Senate. The first settlers were largely of Scots-Irish, English and German descent, and most came from eastern parts of North Carolina or from the South Carolina upstate. Georgia and Tennessee also contributed their share of pioneer settlers. The county government was organized in 1829. Among its first undertakings was the construction of a courthouse — for $3,000. Other early business included the election of county officials and the establishment of road districts, which were worked by able-bodied male residents of the neighborhood. Slavery was never as important in the mountain coun- At the outbreak of the Civil War, Macon County claimed ties as in some other areas of the South. However, the 1830 about 3,000 adult men. From this small population, it raised census shows that about 10 percent of households included seven companies of soldiers for the Confederacy. Obviously, slaves. with so many men away at war, families endured hardship The major slave holders were wealthy merchants and and deprivation, as well as occasional strikes from outlaws planters such as Jesse Siler, William Angel, Thomas and renegades. Shepherd and members of the Love family. A small group When the war ended, word was late getting to Macon of free blacks also settled here very early, and records County, and the final surrender of Confederate forces in the show that they played an important role in the county’s state is thought to have occurred here, on May 14, 1865, at development. Dixie Hall. The Nantahala section was not settled until after the trea- Prosperity returned to the county during the 1870s, and ty of 1835, when the Cherokees ceded their remaining lands. the last part of the century saw a boom in building and de- This treaty, like the earlier one, was followed by the map- velopment. Many of the county’s significant older structures ping of the territory and a land sale, held in 1836 in Franklin. date to this period, including inns, commercial buildings and Settlement was relatively slow in this rugged territory, and residences. Important industries such as logging, mining and a number of Cherokees continued to live there until the tourism also developed at this time. Removal, when they were forced to leave. One of the major accomplishments of this period was During the Removal, Gen. Winfield Scott’s men built a the establishment of the Town of Highlands in 1875. S.T. stockade or fort in Aquone, on a site that was later a Civil Kelsey and C.C. Hutchinson founded the town on a site Conservation Corps camp during the Great Depression and chosen for its ideal climate and beauty. Many of its ear- is now under Nantahala Lake. ly buildings remain, including historic inns and fabulous The most prominent of the early settlers in Nantahala summer homes. was Nimrod S. Jarrett, who purchased huge tracts of prop- erty and led in the development of roads and industry. As the new town of Murphy developed and traffic grew on the state road between it and Franklin, Jarrett’s (later Munday’s) developed as an important stopping place on the highway. Though Franklin continued to be the commercial center of Macon County, the poor state of transportation led to the development of numerous smaller communities in outly- ing areas. West’s Mill, on N.C. 28 North, is a fine surviving example of a community that never quite developed into a town or even a village, but which nevertheless served the social and economic needs of several generations of rural dwellers. Today it is part of the Cowee-West’s Mill National Rural Historic District.
10 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 11 Historical markers tell their tales The history of Macon County is long and rich, full of strife and triumph, discovery and wonder. Historical mark- ers erected by the state pinpoint the location of many events and places that have helped shape the area.
Andre Micheaux French botanist. First visit to North Carolina to study flora was June, 1787, when he traversed the Highlands Plateau. US 64/NC 28 (West Main Street) in Highlands
Battle of Echoe Beginning in 1758, South Carolina engaged in a four-year war with the Cherokee Indians, whose descendants now live in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. This war Silas McDowell resulted from French efforts to incite the Southern Indians Botanical and historical writer; horticulturist. Originated against the British in the French and Indian War (1754-63). concept of a temperate “thermal belt.” Home stood 1/5 mi. US 441 Business (Main Street) in Franklin W. US 64/NC 28 at SR 1677 southeast of Franklin
Cherokee Defeat Thomas Harbison 1862-1936 During the American Revolution, S.C. forces under Botanist and educator. Pioneer in the study of flora, south- Colonel Andrew Williamson defeated the Cherokees, near- eastern U.S. Highlands his base after 1886; taught here. US by, at the “Black Hole,” Sept. 1776. Wayah Road, near 64 (North Fourth Street) in Highlands Wayah Creek, west of Franklin
Cherokee Defeat
In the French and Indian War Col. Grant’s force of whites, Chickasaws, and Catawbas defeated the Cherokee warriors near here, June, 1761. US 23/441 at Norton
Cherokee Victory In the French and Indian War, the Cherokees defeat- ed a Colonial and British force from N.Y. under Colonel Montgomery near here, June, 1760. US 23/441 south of Franklin
Cowee Principal settlement of the Cherokee Middle Towns. Council house stood on mound 300 yds. S. Town destroyed during the Revolution. NC 28 northwest of Franklin
Nikwasi This mound marks site of old Cherokee town, Nikwasi. A council of Sir Alexander Cuming with the Indians here led to a treaty, 1730. US 441 Business (Main Street) in Franklin
Pottery Clay Wedgwood potteries, England, used several tons of clay taken in 1767 from a nearby pit by Thomas Griffiths, a South Carolina planter. NC 28 north of Franklin 12 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 13 Making the most of Macon’s great outdoors
Fall in love with waterfalls Many of the rivers and streams around Western North Carolina offer some spectacular images of nature. Some of the most beautiful images are the waterfalls that the Smokies have to offer. Many of these amazing waterfalls can be found in and around Macon County. Some include waterfalls such as Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. All of these spectacular cascades are within a short driving dis- tance and can be seen all in one day.
Big Laurel Falls – Starting on the west end of Macon County near Standing Indian Campground, you will find Big Laurel Falls. Follow the 0.6 mile hike from Standing Indian down an old logging railroad trail. Hikers will follow the trail along the Big Laurel Branch Creek until they see the waterfall, which cascades about 20 feet.
Rufus Morgan Falls – After your visit to Big Laurel Falls you will want to find your way back to U.S. 64 and take a right. Turn left on Wayah Road and drive about six miles past the gas station until you reach Forest Road 388 on your left. Take the gravel road about two miles to the parking area on the right. From here, take the mile-long trail to the roaring falls. Don’t worry the trail is very easy to follow. Once you reach the falls you can enjoy the breathtaking view get to, and the trail is very steep, but once you are there you of the 60-foot cascade and the beautiful mountain scenery can take a break and enjoy the amazing view of the falls. that surrounds it. Cullasaja Falls – These beautiful cascades are located Upper Buck Creek Falls – If you’re the more between Franklin and Highlands about seven miles east of adventurous type, you might like to visit Upper Buck Creek Franklin on U.S. 64. From Upper Buck Creek Falls you will Falls. Take Wayah Road back to U.S. 64 and take a left. want to follow Buck Creek Road and turn left onto U.S. 64. Follow U.S. 64 until you come to the exit for Highlands/ Drive about one mile until you see a small pull-off on your Franklin on your right. Follow the Highlands Road and take right. Be careful because this pull off is safe enough for only Buck Creek Road on your left. From here drive about five two or three cars. Make sure to pull completely off the road miles until you reach a sharp curve on the right. You can to enjoy this beautiful scene. If you look down to your right park on the side of the road, and walk about 500 feet down you will see the roaring falls. This 250-foot cascade that falls to the falls. From the road you can hear the roaring waters down the Cullasaja River is only safely viewable from the of Buck Creek. The 100-foot cascade can be very difficult to road.
14 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Dry Falls – This unique waterfall is also located between Franklin and Highlands along U.S. 64. From the Cullasaja Falls pull-off, drive along U.S. 64 until you see a brown sign that reads “Dry Falls.” Drive directly down to your right into the lower parking lot. From there tourists can follow a small trail leading down to the waterfall where visitors can safely walk underneath it. During the winter months the trail may freeze, making it very dangerous to visitors, so be careful!
Bridal Veil Falls – Bridal Veil Falls is only a short drive from Dry Falls. Once you leave Dry Falls make a right onto U.S. 64. Follow the mountain road to Highlands and you will see the cascade off to the side of the road on your left. This waterfall is unique because you can drive your car right underneath it. The cascade falls about 120 feet from above, and during the winter months, the falls may turn to a single column of ice that creates a spectacular scene.
Glen Falls – After your visit to Bridal Veil Falls, you can travel to Highlands on U.S. 64 and turn right onto state Route 106. From here you will follow state Route 106 until you see a sign for Glen Falls on your left. Follow the gravel road until you reach the parking area. From the parking area tourists can take a three-quarter mile trail down to the falls. Tourists can enjoy three beautiful waterfalls while visiting Glen Falls. The upper part of the falls is about 70 feet, the middle falls about 60 feet and the lower falls are about 15 feet.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 15 Gunstairs Falls – From Glen Falls travel state Route 106 until you see the falls on the side of the road. Here you will see a spectacular view of the falls that cascade over 100 feet down. Enjoy the beautiful waterfall and the view of the mountains of North Carolina.
Lower Satulah Falls – From Gunstairs Falls you will want to travel back to Highlands and take state Route 28. Travel for about two miles until you see a pull-off. Tourists can enjoy the breathtaking view of the 100-foot waterfall from the road. These falls are also known as Clear Creek Falls and complement the amazing mountain scenery.
Picklesimer Rock House Falls – From Lower Satulah Falls keep traveling south on state Route 28. Take state Route 1618 at a sign for Blue Valley Campground. Drive four miles down the gravel road and park at an old logging road. From here, hike about half a mile up the creek to the spectacular view of the falls. This breathtaking waterfall cas- cades about 40 feet in front of a deeply recessed rock house and is definitely worth visiting.
16 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 17 Playing outside Macon County also offers a number of outdoor hobbies that can go from relaxing to strenuous, depending on your lifestyle and mood.
Hunting Numerous game species such as deer, turkey, bear, squir- rel, grouse, raccoon and wild boar are hunted in the Nantahala National Forest. Hunting seasons are variously scheduled by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, starting in September and lasting into late February. An agreement between the U.S. Forest Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission designates all National Forests as “game lands.” To hunt in the Nantahala National Forest, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission requires a hunting license, a game lands use permit and big game stickers for hunting deer, turkey, bear and wild boar. Hunting licenses may be purchased at most convenience stores. Each hunter has a personal responsibility to be familiar with the regulations and dates governing his/her particular hunting activities.
Macon County Recreation Park The Macon County Recreation Park complex is located just off U.S. 441 south near Franklin. The community facil- ities building is part of the complex and adds many indoor activities to the recreation department’s offerings. The build- ing is open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. The many attractions throughout the park, open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, include a gymnasi- um, four conference/party rooms available for rent, softball, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, a swimming pool, a loop walking trail, shuffleboard courts, a children’s play- ground, tennis courts, two outdoor picnic shelters, horse- shoes and more. Contact the staff at the facilities building at (828) 349-2090 for more information on the various activities available.
18 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 19 Parker Meadows Athletic Complex Built in 2015, the Parker Meadows Athletic Complex provides many unique recreational opportunities to Macon County residents and visitors. The facility features eight lighted baseball and softball fields, a soccer field, walking track, playground and picnic area. Located approximately three miles west of Franklin on U.S. 64, the facility also is a popular local fishing spot along the cool waters of Cartoogechaye Creek. The Parker Meadows complex is capable of hosting ma- jor baseball and softball tournaments for both youths and adults. Call Macon County Parks and Recreation at (828) 349-2090 for more information.
Mountain Biking For folks who want to see the beautiful scenery in the Western North Carolina mountains and get in shape in the process, mountain biking may be the answer. A sport that has grown steadily in recent years, this area is a “mecca” of great trails for riding. Designated mountain bike trails such as Tsali Recreation Area near Lake Fontana, as well as numerous U.S. Forest Service roads can be used for a variety of rides. Grueling climbs, fast descents and steady, rolling terrain are all avail- able, sometimes all on the same trail. Call the Smoky Mountain Cycling Club at (828) 369- 3835 for information on some popular mountain bike rides in the area.
Picnicking There are many beautiful and inviting picnic spots scat- tered throughout Macon County. Some of the picnic locations that provide covered shel- ters are Arrowood (off Wayah Road), Standing Indian (Old U.S. 64 west of Franklin), Cliffside Lake (U.S. 64 east of Franklin), the Smoky Mountain Visitor Center (U.S. 441 south of Franklin), Macon County Recreation Park (two shelters, on U.S. 441 South), and the Highlands Recreation Park (U.S. 64 East). Most of the shelters listed are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Jaycee shelter and both recreation park shelters may be reserved.
Swimming Cliffside Lake between Franklin and Highlands offers a developed swimming area and bathhouse. A fee is charged for parking. Other swimming pools open to the general public are the Macon County Recreation Park pool and the Highlands Recreation Park pool. A small fee is charged to enter each pool, and schedules are available at each location.
Disc Golf starts behind Southwestern Community College’s Macon Franklin is home to the county’s only official disc golf County campus. The course includes a collection of short course. Known as the Macon Early College Disc Golf Course, and long holes, as well as wooded and open holes, and is or the Old Siler Farm Disc Golf Course, the nine-hole course moderately hilly. 20 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 21 On the Appalachian Trail: Hiker’s paradise Pick almost any spot in Franklin, turn 360 degrees, and wildflowers all the way to the top of the bald. odds are you’ll see at least one mountain peak reaching up Once at the top, a short paved trail can be taken to view into the Carolina blue sky. And, if you want to take things the mountains from the second story of a 60-year-old rock even further, head up to the nearby Appalachian Trail – fire tower. Picnic tables and restrooms are located nearby. after all, Franklin was the first Appalachian Trail Community For more information about Wayah Bald and other trails off to be designated by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in the Appalachian, call Wayah Ranger District at (828) 524- 2010. The town recertified its designation in spring 2015, 6441. becoming the first town to do so. Franklin in April becomes the hiking center of Western The Appalachian Trail is a 2,100-mile footpath along North Carolina, as many thru-hikers – those attempting to the crest of the Appalachian Mountains beginning in Maine hike the entire 2,100-mile path – make an early stop in town and ending in Georgia. Approximately 60 miles of the trail to fill up on necessities and take a break from the trail for follow the Nantahala Mountains over a series of 5,000-foot a day or two. That’s also when local organizations come peaks giving way to splendid view of endless blue mountain together to host Trail Days – a number of events centered ranges. Several of the most spectacular views of this part around welcoming hikers to town and celebrating Franklin’s of the trail are in the Macon County area. Among these are relationship with the Appalachian Trail. Siler Bald, Wine Spring Bald and Wayah Bald. The trail plays an important part in local education ef- Wayah, meaning “wolf,” is a well-known mountain peak forts, as well, as Cartoogechaye Elementary School indi- nestled in the Nantahala National Forest. Its elevation is vidually and Macon County Schools as a whole are official 5,342 feet. Today the bald is primarily used as an obser- Appalachian Trail Community Supporters. Students also vation point to view the town of Franklin and surrounding routinely take hikes on the trail, thanks to the support of the mountains. Nantahala Hiking Club. In addition to working with area Wayah Bald is easily accessible by vehicle. It is locat- schools, the club leads hikes each weekend on the trail, and ed 17 miles west of Franklin. The winding road follows a does maintenance each week when weather allows on the small stream part of the way, then branches off to the right Macon County portion of the trail. on a well maintained gravel road that boasts native trees and Macon County Transit, the area bus service, offered a
22 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 23 shuttle for the first time in early 2015 for hikers going up to Wasilik Poplar Trail, Betty Creek Gap, the Appalachian Trail, and coming down from the trail, and the Macon County Public Pickens Nose, Park Creek Trail, Long Branch Trail, Kimsey Library, another Appalachian Trail Community Supporter, Creek Trail, Big Indian Loop and Bear Pen Trail. These trails started a backpack program so students can check out gear can be accessed from the Back Country Information Center to help them on a hike. past Standing Indian Campground or trailheads along Forest The Appalachian Trail is the longest, but certainly not the Service Road 67. only hiking trail in Macon County. All trail mileages are estimated roundtrip and road mileages are one way. • Rufus Morgan Trail – (1 mile) – This easy one-mile loop trail passes through a copse of hardwood, past a beau- tiful waterfall and through a timber harvest unit thinned in 1992. The trail is named after Rufus Morgan, a naturalist who was instrumental in developing the Appalachian Trail. Drive 3 miles west of Franklin on U.S. 64. Turn right at the Wayah Bald directional sign. Take the first left onto Wayah Road. Go 6.6 miles and turn left on Forest Service Road 388. The moderate trail will be 2.2 miles on the right. • Shot Pouch – (1 mile) – Go 3 miles west on U.S. 64 and turn right at Wayah Bald directional sign. Take first left onto Wayah Road and go 9 miles to Wayah Gap. Following the sign, turn right on the gravel road and go 0.9 miles. Trail sign is on the right. This unblazed, easy trail crosses the AT. • Bartram Trail – Leaving the Nantahala Ranger Station, located on Sloan Road, U.S. 64 west, turn right and go to the stop sign on the corner. Take Pressley Road (diagonally across from stop sign) for 1.6 miles to the Bartram Trail sign. Park at trailhead parking area. Follow the yellow-blazed trail to the second road crossing, which is in a white pine plantation. Turn left and follow the road back to your vehicle – a moderate 1.5 miles. Bartram Trail continues up Wayah Bald, joins the AT for several miles, then descends to Nantahala Lake for a total distance of 17.8 strenuous miles. The Standing Indian area has several trails for the avid hiker, including Big Laurel Falls, Mooney Falls Trail,
24 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 25 Take a walk along the Greenway
Maybe a peaceful stroll through nature is more your speed. If so, the Little Tennessee River Greenway is for you. The path winds its way through town along the river, allow- ing walkers, runners and explorers to stick to the beaten path or get off-road a bit to see the world living all around us. The ancient trading path along the Little Tennessee River was “spacious and well-beaten,” William Bartram found when he visited the Cherokee country in 1775. With the opening of the Little Tennessee River Greenway, part of that path is again accessible to the public for walking and outdoor activities. From north to south, the Greenway stretches more than four miles, from the trailhead at Suli Marsh (off Arthur Drake Road on the west side of Lake Emory) to the confluence of the Little Tennessee and Cartoogechaye Creek, south of Franklin. One section of the trail follows the roadbed of the Tallulah Falls Railroad, while another part of the trail wanders by the site of the county’s first airstrip. The Greenway crosses the river at several points and passes by wetlands full of wildlife. Volunteers have cata- logued nearly 200 plant species, including the endangered Virginia Spirea. Development of the Greenway has occurred in tandem with a major effort to restore the river and reduce the erosion of what Bartram called the “silver flood” of its waters. These efforts continue throughout the watershed. Along the Greenway, restoration projects include repair- ing damaged riparian areas, attacking invasive plants, and Local people had entertained the dream of a greenway re-planting native plant species, in conjunction with the for years, but it became possible only after Duke Energy ac- Mainspring Conversation Trust. quired property along the river for a new transmission line and made land available for the trail. The Little Tennessee Greenway project is a public-private partnership involving Macon County, the Town of Franklin, the power company, other local business- es, the LBJ Job Corps, area nonprofits and a host of volun- teers. State support has come in the form of funding from the Clean Water Management Trust Fund and the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. A map of the Greenway trails is available at the Friends of the Greenway (FROG) Quarters, 573 E. Main Street, Franklin, (828) 369-8488.
26 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 27 Waterways offer adventure, recreation If waterways are the lifeblood of Macon County, then the aquatic recreation, while the river, and the countless creeks Little Tennessee River is its heart. The 135-mile tributary and streams that flow into it, provide some of the best fishing of the Tennessee River rises in Rabun County, Georgia and anywhere. For those who prefer still waters, lakes are also flows into southwestern North Carolina, where it is joined by within easy reach of Macon County. the Cullasaja River in Franklin. It then turns northwest and flows through the Nantahala Go fish National Forest before crossing into eastern Tennessee, With several hundred miles of streams available, the where it joins the Tennessee River at Lenoir City near Wayah Ranger District offers excellent fishing. Rainbow and Knoxville. brown trout are the predominant species, with brook trout to The Little Tennessee offers plenty of opportunities for be found in the headwaters of some streams.
28 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has licensing, management and regulatory authority over the waters of the state. Many local waters are designated as pub- lic mountain trout waters. All such designated waters are fur- ther classified as being general, native or special native trout waters. General trout waters, not located on game lands, are marked with green and white signs. Native trout waters are marked with blue and white signs along the watercourses. Regulations are more restrictive to protect these valuable fisheries. Red and white signs posted along the routes identify special native trout waters. Fishing licenses may be purchased at most local conve- nience stores and at various other locations in smaller com- munities. Sales clerks in each store are usually willing to help you decide which license(s) you need to fish legally, from one- or three-day permits to a year-round license. For those not wishing to purchase fishing licenses, there are several private fishing ponds in Macon County; there is usually a per-fish charge. The Franklin and Highlands cham- bers of commerce can provide more information about fish- ing ponds in the area. Boating The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission pro- Other lakes not in Macon County, but within a short driv- vides two free public-use launch sites on Nantahala Lake. ing distance, include Lake Fontana, which lies between the One site, Rocky Branch, is on the east side of the lake just Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains off Wayah Road (State Road 1310), and the other site is lo- National Park. It is accessible off U.S. 19, U.S. 129 and N.C. cated in the Choga area on the western arm of the lake, off 28. There are commercial boat docks and launch sites that Forest Service Road 440. also offer services.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 29 Photos courtesy of Duke Energy Duke Energy: Gateway to Macon waterways Duke Energy, the main energy supplier in North Carolina, The majority of its public recreation access areas are op- is responsible for a number of recreational access points in erated under cooperative partnership agreements with either the Macon County area. the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission or local county The reservoirs for the Nantahala Hydroelectric Projects governments. The areas are open year-round from dawn to create most of the region’s larger lakes, and scheduled flow dusk for public recreation. releases create whitewater recreation opportunities for more Access points include: than 250,000 rafters and kayakers each year. Dependable • Lake Emory Access Area: A handicapped-accessible flows make the Tuckasegee River a destination for nearly concrete boat launch ramp and a fishing platform was con- 60,000 wading and drift boat anglers and paddlers annually. structed on Lake Emory with a gravel parking area, a native Six hydroelectric licenses for Duke Energy’s power plants in vegetation access area and an information kiosk. It is located the Nantahala area have been issued since 2011. on Lake Emory Road off U.S. 23 in Franklin. The company is currently working on a variety of re- • Bear Creek Access Area: The N.C. Wildlife Resources gional public recreation and aquatic habitat enhancements, Commission installed two handicapped-accessible boat and have completed a few recently in the area. Duke Energy launch ramps and a courtesy dock at the existing access area has 19 public recreation areas in service in the area, with in 2013. Duke Energy paved the parking area, installed a five more done or nearly completed for 2015. A partnership handicapped-accessible restroom and built a fishing pier with the U.S. Forest Service also is providing six new access with benches for wildlife viewing. points into the Nantahala River for use during scheduled rec- • Pines Recreation Area: This recreation area, located reational water releases for whitewater enthusiasts. on Lake Glenville at Pine Creek Road, gained several new Amenity enhancements to theses areas include develop- amenities in 2014, including a paved parking area, a fishing ing or improving launch ramps for boats, canoes and kayaks; pier, a swim beach area, picnic tables, a restroom and an courtesy docks; fishing piers; picnic areas; campsites; beach information kiosk. The access area was designed with native shoreline swimming or fishing areas; walkways; restrooms, vegetation rain gardens and is handicapped-accessible. lighting and parking. Many of the access areas are accessible • Franklin Canoe Portage: A courtesy dock was in- to the handicapped. stalled on Lake Emory and also a canoe portage trail around
30 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 31 the Franklin Hydro Power Plant downstream to the Little Tennessee River. A gravel parking area also is available at this access area located on Clyde Downs Road off U.S. 23 in Franklin. • Rocky Branch Access Area: Duke Energy enhanced this existing boat launch access area located on Nantahala Lake by adding a paved parking area, a restroom facility and a fishing pier with benches for wildlife viewing. • Lena Davis Tuckasegee River Access: Duke Energy partnered with Western Carolina University, the Tuckasegee Water and Sewer Authority and the Tennessee Valley Authority to install two concrete boat launch ramps – one above and one below the Cullowhee Dam. There are plans to improve the parking area and install native vegetation rain gardens. This existing access area is located on the main stem of the Tuckasegee River, off State Road 1002 near Cullowhee. new access area located below the Cedar Cliff Hydro Power A number of other access areas were completed in the past Plant on the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River. Native vege- few years and are open to the public in the Macon County tation rain gardens were added to control stormwater runoff. area. Those include: Duke Energy also developed a canoe/kayak take-out access • Wishon’s Fishin’ Hole Access Area: This new access area downstream of the Shook Cove Access Area; the take- area located on the Nantahala River, off Wayah Road just out area has gravel parking and an information kiosk. Both below the Nantahala Hydro Power Plant, was completed put-in and take-out access areas are located on Shook Cove in the spring of 2014. It includes a handicapped-accessible Road off N.C. 107. fishing platform, an information kiosk and a gravel parking area. The area was landscaped to minimize stormwater run- off into the river. This access area was named for the late John Wishon, a former Duke Energy employee who led the Nantahala hydro relicensing efforts. A memorial marker was installed in his honor. • Powerhouse Access Area: The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission upgraded the concrete boat launch ramp and gravel parking area and added a courtesy dock at this access area located on Lake Glenville. Duke Energy added a fish- ing pier with benches for wildlife observation, along with a walkway and an informational kiosk. All access area ameni- ties are handicapped-accessible. . • C. J. Harris Access Area: Duke Energy constructed a concrete boat ramp, native vegetation rain gardens, a hand- icapped-accessible gravel parking area, and restroom and clothes-changing facilities. This access area is located on the main stem of the Tuckasegee River, off U.S. 23 at River Road, near Dillsboro. • High Falls Whitewater Trail: Developed as a scenic trail to provide whitewater kayak enthusiasts access to the six-mile bypassed reach of the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River, located at the toe of the High Falls Dam waterfall be- low Lake Glenville Dam, the 0.7-mile trail is located off Pine Creek Road at Lake Glenville, and a gravel parking area and an information kiosk were added at the trail entrance. Duke Energy provides scheduled whitewater releases into the by- passed reach from April through September of each year. • Tuckasegee Powerhouse Access Area: A boat launch ramp, a gravel parking area and an information kiosk were built at this new access area located on the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River off N.C. 107 below Tuckasegee Lake. • Shook Cove Access Area: A concrete boat launch ramp, a gravel parking area and an information enhance this
32 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 33 34 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 35 Macon is a camper’s paradise
Macon County is home to some of this region’s best camp- Creek, located at Standing Indian. Flush toilets and showers ing areas, due to the different mountain chains that meet here, are available, but there are no trailer hookups. Fire rings are and the rivers and lakes within a short drive. There are many located at each site, and a dump station is located within a privately owned campgrounds offering modern convenienc- mile. From the Nantahala Ranger District Office, drive 10 es, as well as U.S. Forest Service-maintained camping areas. miles west on U.S. 64. Turn left on Wallace Gap Road (Old • Standing Indian Campground has 78 campsites avail- 64) for two miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 67 (at able on first-come, first-served basis or reservation at www. the campground sign). It’s two miles to the campground en- recreation.gov. The site is open April 1 through Nov. 27. trance. Call (828) 369-0442. Three group sites are available by reservation only at Kimsey • Hurricane Creek Primitive Campground and Horse
36 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Camp is located in the midst of numerous hiking and horse- back riding trails. There is an $6 per night fee for this fa- cility. To get there, follow directions to Standing Indian Campground, bearing left at campground entrance sign (road forks slightly, Road No. 67). Hurricane Creek camp is two miles past the campground entrance sign. The site is open from March 15 to Jan. 1. Horses are permitted only in the horse camp area and on trails. • Appletree Group Campground is located about one mile north of Nantahala Lake on State Road 1401, which is accessible from Franklin via U.S. 64 and the Wayah Road (SR 1310). Reservations are required; contact the Nantahala Ranger District Office at (828) 524-6441. Several hiking trails can be accessed from the campground and white water activities are just a short 15-minute drive away. The site is open April 1 to Oct. 31. Two sites are limited to 25 people, and the other two are limited to 50 people. There is drinking water and flush toilets. • Vanhook Glade Campground has 18 family camping units. No electrical or sewer hookups. There is drinking wa- ter and flush toilets and showers. Several hiking trails and Cliffside Lake Day Use area are easily accessible from the campground. Available as first-come, first-served and by reservation at recreation.gov. It is located 4.3 miles west of Highlands on U.S. 64. It is open early April through late reservation through www.recreation.gov. The U.S. Forest Service October. Nantahala Ranger District’s office at 90 Sloan Road, Franklin, will be glad to furnish more information about rules and regu- Daily camping fees are charged at the Forest Service camp- lations of designated camping areas. Telephone (828) 524-6441. grounds, which operate on a first-come, first-served basis and by
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 37 Mainspring: Protecting land, water, heritage The Franklin-based Mainspring Conservation Trust (for- merly known as Land Trust for the Little Tennessee) con- serves the waters, forests, farms and heritage of the upper Little Tennessee and Hiwassee River valleys, including all of North Carolina west of the Balsam Mountains and a por- tion of North Georgia. Mainspring works to conserve the land of the Little Tennessee and Hiwassee River Basins through conservation easements, accepting gifts of land, purchasing at-risk prop- erties, and promoting active stewardship through sustainable forestry, agriculture and restoration of wildlife habitat. The organization has conserved more than 10,000 acres, including 35 miles of Little Tennessee River frontage, multi- ple family farms and historic sites, and more than 100 miles of headwater streams in the Balsam, Cowee, Nantahala and Great Smoky Mountains since 1999. The trust helps restore the water through aquatic health monitoring, stream bank stabilization and reforestation, wet- land restoration and advocacy for clean water. Its cultural heritage preservation work has included a partnership with the Cherokee to conserve the ancient town site of Cowee, the nomination of the largest National Register Historic District restoration along miles of river and stream frontage. in Western North Carolina and the purchase of an 1895 gen- The organization strives to connect the people of the eral store. Southern Blue Ridge to their region by preserving farmland Mainspring has also created programs to promote sound and historic sites, developing public access to land and water, forest management on private lands, as well as habitat advocating that development fit traditional uses of the land,
38 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 and supporting the re-use of historic buildings. Mainspring work in cooperation with various partners and agencies to offers fun, educational and volunteer opportunities that help provide outreach and education to landowners, public offi- connect individuals with the benefits of land conservation, cials and students. including hosting bird watching outings, canoe trips and Stop by the office at 557 E. Main St., Franklin, visit main- nature hikes. Many times during the year they ask for vol- springconserves.org or call 828-524-2711 for more informa- unteers to assist with land stewardship projects. They also tion about the Mainspring Conservation Trust.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 39 The wild side of Macon life
Macon County is home to a dazzling diversity of flora and fauna. No wonder – 152,000 acres of Macon lie within the Nantahala National Forest, 46 percent of the entire county. The forest ranges from dry yellow pines to a variety of moist cove and mountain oak forests, to high-elevation northern hardwoods and spruce-fir forests. The Nantahala also includes thousands of acres of old-growth forest. The Nantahala and surrounding areas are home to more than 1,500 types of wildflowers and other blooming shrubs and trees. Macon is brimming with animal life, including deer, wild turkey – and a growing population of black bears. The neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to about 1,500 bears, according to the National Park Service. Elk were introduced into the park in 2001, and their num- bers are growing steadily. The county is also a birder’s paradise. The Franklin Bird Club has documented at least 126 species, including a dizzy- ing array of migratory birds that visit the region on their way north or south every spring and fall. Not a birder? A leisurely stroll along the Greenway just might change your mind. The Franklin Bird Club (franklinbirdclub.com) and the Highlands Audubon Society (highlandsaudubonsociety.org) are two excellent groups to meet fellow birding enthusiasts.
40 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 41 Down on the farm Historically, agriculture has played a key role in the econ- million in the market value of products sold. Macon farms omy and culture of Macon County, and farming continues to are relatively small, averaging 70 acres. be part of the fabric of Macon life. Livestock sales, led by beef cattle, represented 64 per- While agriculture is no longer the mighty economic en- cent of total agricultural revenue, compared to 36 percent gine it once was, small farms help sustain many Macon fam- in crops. ilies – and enhance the pastoral beauty of the county. Macon County may not be an agricultural powerhouse, The 2012 U.S. Census of Agriculture reported 326 farms but farming continues to be a vibrant piece of the local econ- operating in the county, representing 22,684 acres and $5.64 omy.
42 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Cooperative Extension Service The N.C. Cooperative Extension Service, Macon County Tammara Talley is Extension’s 4-H Agent. Macon Center, is an educational organization that serves as a link County 4-H organizes 4-H clubs, school enrichment pro- between research, science and technology and the needs grams and special interest events, such as the Summer Relief of people where they live and work. The N.C. Cooperative Program, leadership training, sewing, 4-H Entertains and Extension, Macon County Center, is located at 193 Thomas 4-H Presentations, as well as preparing 4-H’ers for various Heights Road. county, district and state 4-H events. The goal of 4-H is to This office provides a broad range of educational pro- assist youth and adults in becoming competent, coping and grams that are of interest to farmers, rural and urban resi- contributing members of a global society, developing essen- dents, community leaders, homemakers, parents and youth. tial life skills through planned “learn by doing” experiences. Information can be provided on an individual basis by con- 4-H uses the university knowledge base as a means of facil- tacting the appropriate agent. Educational programs also can itating the design, development and delivery of experiential be provided to community clubs, civic organizations or in youth education programs. school classrooms. Extension Agent Joe Deal works with all agricultural Alan Durden, County Extension director, is responsible livestock, honeybees, ponds, forage and pastures. He teach- for maintaining all the agency’s programs. His main program es pesticide classes and pesticide recertification classes for emphasis is working with the fruit and vegetable producers pesticide users in Macon County. in this area. He answers questions about growing Christmas Skip Thompson is the area’s specialized agent for agri- trees and other ornamentals, and can help with soil testing, culture and aquaculture. He provides educational opportu- insect identification, weed identification and composting. He nities and technical support to the trout aquaculture industry holds continuing education classes for landscape contractors in 11 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in in Macon County and assists homeowners with horticulture Western North Carolina. That includes fish health, produc- problems. He teaches the Master Gardener course and fa- tion management and waste management educational pro- cilitates the Macon County Master Gardener Association, grams for trout farmers, fee-fishing pond managers and trout which works at events throughout the county and manag- fingerling producers. He also provides fish health and water es a project at the Macon County Environmental Resource quality management support to the carp fishing ponds in 24 Center. counties.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 43 Administrative support is provided for the Extension staff lated to housing, family resource management, clothing, hu- by Deborah Hunter. Marilyn Bradley serves as receptionist. man development, foods and nutrition. Carol Pitts, Nutrition Program Assistant, EFNEP/4-H and For more information about the services that NC Youth works with nutrition education for youth in qualified Cooperative Extension has to offer and programs that are families and assists with 4-H activities concentrating on spe- currently being held, or to be placed on the mailing list for cial interest, school enrichment and community club devel- free newsletters, call 828-349-2046 or visit the website at opment and expansion. macon.ncsu.edu. Area Specialized Extension Agents also provide informa- tion and assistance to the residents of Macon County. The Cooperative Extension publishes two monthly news- letters: Horticultural News, written by Alan Durden, contains tips on gardening and landscaping with articles on plant cul- ture, insects and diseases of concern in our area. Macon County 4-H Newsletter, written by Tammara Talley, contains information on what’s happening in 4-H. Quarterly newsletters: Livestock News, written by Joe Deal, contains information on livestock and livestock-relat- ed events that are coming up. Family and Consumer Education, written by the Family and Consumer Agent, provides a listing of educational pro- grams for the upcoming quarter and timely information re-
44 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 45 Arts & Entertainment abound
A quick trip through Franklin and the other communities cluding art exhibits and concerts. It sponsors activities such of Macon County can show you how important the arts and as the Teen Poetry Night and fosters other ways for youth to history are to the appeal of the area. There are a number of show off and explore their talents. venues and organizations to check out if you are looking to The council also provides scholarships to artistic students, add a little class to your day. as well as technical help to other county groups carrying out cultural programs. Arts Council of Macon County Contact the group by calling (828) 524-7683, emailing The Arts Council serves people of all ages and interests [email protected] or going online to artscouncilofmacon. through programs and activities for the general public, art- org. A list of upcoming council events is available at its web- ists’ residencies and instructive performances in the public site. schools. It takes part in a number of community events, in- As the council likes to quote Robert Shaw: “To be an
46 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 artist is not the privilege of the few, but the necessity of us and also a small gift shop. There is a fluorescent mineral all.” display in a room off the ground floor. Upstairs, one room is devoted to fossils and two rooms Gem and Mineral Society to mineral specimens from around the world. In the “slam- The Gem and Mineral Society is a group of gem, mineral mer,” a reminder that this was once a functional jail, there and lapidary arts enthusiasts who meet at the Macon County is a display of minerals used in glassmaking. In the hallway Community Facilities Building, now known as the Robert C. are displays of unusual minerals and one of geodes and thun- Carpenter Community Building, on U.S. 441 South, at 6:30 dereggs. There also is a case devoted to seashells and one to p.m. on the last Thursday of each month. (There are excep- “writings on stone,” which features a replica of the Rosetta tions. Call (828) 369-7831 for details.) The public is invited stone and the map of Hezekiah’s tunnel. to all meetings, which usually feature educational programs The museum is located at 25 Phillips Street in Franklin, focused on different topics of the day. The society offers behind Rankin Square, and is open from May 1 through Oct. training in the lapidary arts to its members. The Gem and 31 each year. Its hours are Monday through Saturday from Mineral Society also cosponsors annual “gemborees” with 12 to 4 p.m. The museum also is open on Saturdays during the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce and maintains the the offseason, from Nov. 1 to April 30, from noon to 4 p.m. Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum. Other dates and hours are available by special arrangement. The society founded the museum with the aid of the Macon Tours by school groups and others are by appointment, usu- County Board of Commissioners and local merchants. The ally other than opening hours. There is no charge for visiting “old jail,” which had been in use since the 1850s, was vacant the museum, although donations are accepted. These dona- and in danger of being razed for a parking lot. The society tions, as well as proceeds from the gift shop and a subsidy felt the need for a museum, and in 1972 secured a lease on from the society, support the museum’s mission of preserv- the premises with the provision that it would maintain the ing gems and minerals, and educating the community about building. After two years of labor, the museum opened its their importance. Members of the society staff the museum, doors to the public. which attracts visitors from all over the world and is one of The ground floor is divided into three rooms of exhibits, the premier attractions of the town. Call the museum at (828) one room focusing on every state in the nation except North 369-7831 for more information. Carolina, which has a room of its own, and one devoted to Native American artifacts. Also on this floor is a “touch Macon County Art Association table” for those who would like to handle actual specimens, The Macon County Art Association’s mission is to
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 47 stimulate community interest in the visual arts. The group The building itself is a piece of county history and is list- formed in 1962, and in 1991 association members opened ed on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as the season in the current location known as the Uptown the Pendergrass Building, the museum’s home was built in Gallery, at 30 E. Main St. The facility recently went through 1904 and served the county for the next seven decades as a a facelift, reopening to the public in February 2015. dry-goods store. The nonprofit gallery is run by volunteer members and The building was purchased in 1989 by the historical so- often has new exhibits. Association members may sell their ciety and opened as a museum in 1990. Now, the building is original artwork and photography through the gallery and at nearly full of relics from the past. Displays line both sides of outdoor shows in Franklin and Highlands during the summer the first and second floors. Photographs document many of months. the stages of Macon County’s past. The association sponsors instructional workshops and The Macon County Historical Museum is open to the classes for adults and children in their continuing effort to public Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. reach out to the community, and a portion of their sales goes to 4 p.m.; and on Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to into a scholarship fund. The group, through a grant program 1 p.m. Winter hours are subject to change. Admission is a from The Bascom in Highlands, offers regular afterschool minimum $5 donation. and summer art classes for children and teenagers. Call (828) 524-9758 or visit maconnchistorical.org for Meetings are held throughout the year and often feature more information. The museum has wireless high-speed a guest speaker and demonstration in a variety of art media. Internet for public access. The gallery is open during the busy season, May through December, from Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Mountain Voices gallery is open January through April, Monday to Saturday, Mountain Voices, a community chorus for men and wom- from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other times are available by appoint- en, practices Mondays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at First Baptist ment. Church, 69 Iotla St. New singers are welcome to attend. Membership in the art association is open to anyone inter- Call (828) 524-3644 for more information. ested in art who is 18 years of age or older. Call the gallery at (828) 349-4607, email [email protected] Scottish Tartans Museum or visit franklinuptowngallery.com for more information. The Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center, lo- cated at 86 E. Main St., is the only Scottish Tartans museum Macon County Historical Museum in the United States and recently started a 700-square-foot A small group of people formed the historical society renovation to focus more on Scottish culture and less on gift in 1946 with the goal of saving the Nikwasi Indian Mound shop items. (across Main Street from The Hot Spot) from destruction as The museum not only displays Scottish tartans and other East Franklin began to develop. With the support of Macon artifacts, but also covers all facets of Scottish history, cul- County’s citizens, the society was able to raise enough ture, tradition and dress. In addition to serving as a clearing- funds to purchase the mound and present it to the Town house for information about Scottish history, where visitors of Franklin. Since then, the society has opened the Macon can research their family tartans, the museum also traces the County Historical Society Museum to preserve some of the role of the Scots in traditional southern Appalachian culture. history of Macon County. The Taste of Scotland Festival is slated for the third The museum is funded entirely through memberships, weekend in June each year. The festival includes food, mu- donations, grants and sales of engraved bricks, a two-vol- sic, Children’s Highlands Games and much more. ume Heritage of Macon County and gift-shop items. The Museum admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children museum staff uses those funds to give visitors a glimpse of ages 6-12. The museum is open year-round. Hours are 10 what life was like in Macon County’s past. a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Winter hours are
48 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 49 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November to April 30. Group the third Monday at 6:30 p.m. Members of the guild also tours and school groups are welcome. meet several times a week at Tartan Hall to hand-quilt the Call (828) 524-7472 or visit scottishtartans.org for old-fashioned way on large quilt frames. The guild has given more information. You also can find information on joining more than $25,000 in scholarships to Macon County seniors the Friends of the Scottish Tartans Museum at the web- since 1982. The guild is a nonprofit. For info, write SMQG, site. P.O. Box 1381, Franklin, NC, 28744; call 828-349-0883; or visit smokymtnquilters.org. Ruby City Gems and Minerals Ruby City Gems and Minerals Museum is located at 130 The Bascom E. Main St. at the top of Town Hill. The Ruby City Museum The Bascom is a nonprofit center for the visual arts in is the home of the world’s largest sapphire, weighing 385 Highlands that serves people through high-quality rotating pounds, and boasts a large collection of arrowheads and exhibitions, classes and educational presentations. local artifacts, as well as more than 500 spheres cut and The campus features historic buildings, a covered bridge, polished by founder Ernest F. Klatt. A black light room a nature trail, a 27,500-square-foot main building for shows off specimens of fluorescent gems and rocks. A large two-dimensional adult and children’s art, a separate display of pre-Columbian artifacts includes tools, bowls and reconstructed Studio Barn for three-dimensional art, a café, utensils dating back to 1535 BC. Fossils, dinosaur bones and a shop, a terrace for venue rentals and much more. The com- petrified wood also are part of the collection at Ruby City. plex and landscape, evocative of the former horse stable and Hours for the museum are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday agrarian landscape that once thrived there, inspires audiences through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 1 of all ages and backgrounds. Individuals come together, through Dec. 31. Call for winter hours. Admission is free. participate in studio art classes and public programs, share Call (828) 524-3967 or see rubycity.com for more informa- cultural experiences, and enjoy the synergy of art and nature. tion. In The Bascom’s classrooms and studio spaces, beginner and Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild advanced artists create new works. The purpose of the Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild is The Bascom is located at 323 Franklin Road in Highlands. to stimulate an intelligent interest in the art of quilting For hours and additional information call (828) 526-4949 or and to provide opportunities for the exchange of ideas, in- visit thebascom.org. struction and presentation of pertinent information among members. Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts The guild was established in 1982 and presently has nearly Located at 1028 Georgia Road in Franklin, The Smoky 200 members. The guild was the recipient of the Governor’s Mountain Center for the Performing Arts — a 1,500 seat Volunteer Award in 1999 for providing more than 100 quilts state-of-the-art facility — presents the finest in performing a year to the Head Start program. arts to the surrounding towns. Performances include musical Members designed and made the wall quilt to commem- productions, professional drama troupes, dance and choral orate the sesquicentennial of the Town of Franklin. The quilt festivals and recitals. is displayed in the courthouse on Main Street. Members also The architecture, technical facilities and acoustics provide have designed and made wall quilts for display in the Macon the highest professional standards for both the audience County Public Library, Angel Medical Center, the Head and the performers. The center nurtures the development, Start office and Franklin Town Hall. understanding and appreciation of the arts throughout the The guild meets twice a month, often at Tartan Hall at community and the region. the First Presbyterian Church. The day meeting is held the Visit www.greatmountainmusic.com for a list of upcoming second Monday at 9:30 a.m., and the night meeting is held events. For more information, call (828) 524-1598.
50 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 51 Mark your calendar for these can’t-miss events Taste of Scotland Celtic Festival June 16 to 19, Downtown Franklin. (727) 424-8901 or tasteofscotlandfestival.org
An Evening of Red, White & Blues July 3, 7:30 p.m., at the Gazebo in Cowntown Franklin. (828) 524-2516
4th of July Parade 10:00 a.m., starting at Franklin Town Hall
Fireworks in the Park July 4, Macon County Recreation Veteran’s Park, from 2 p.m. until fireworks at dark (828) 524-3161
Appalachian Heritage Festival July 16, Downtown Franklin, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (828) 524-7766 Macon County Fair 51st Annual Macon County Gemboree Sept. 14 to 17, Macon County Fairgrounds July 28 to 31, Macon County Community (828) 369-3523 Building, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (828) 524-3161 Autumn Leaves Craft Show Oct. 6 to 8, Macon County Fairgrounds, 8th Annual Annual Mountain High Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; BBQ Festival & Car Show Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission Aug. 12 to 13, Macon County Fairgrounds, and parking. (828) 349-4324 Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (828) 524-3161
12th Annual Franklin Area Folk Festival Aug. 20, 10 a.m. at Cowee School, Arts and Heritage Center Franklinfolkfestival.com
Franklin RiverFest Aug. 27, sponsored by Rotary Club of Franklin - Daybreak. Franklinriverfest.com
52 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 53 54 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 27th Annual Leaf Lookers Gemboree Winter Wonderland Oct. 14 to 16, Macon County Community Dec. 3, 5-8 p.m., Downtown Franklin Building, 10 a.m. (828) 524-2516. to 5 p.m. (828) 524-3161
Pumpkin Fest Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Downtown Franklin. 828-524-2516, pumpkinfestfranklin.com
Veteran’s Parade Nov. 11, at 11 a.m., Downtown Franklin (828) 524-2516
Winter Wonderland Nov. 26, 5-8 p.m., Downtown Franklin Holidaysinfranklin.com
Annual Christmas Parade Nov. 27, 3 p.m., Downtown Franklin Sponsored by Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce (828) 524-3161
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 55 56 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 57 Gem Mining: It’s not just for kids Macon County attracts tourists from all over the country Area gem mines include: because of its beauty and charm, but one activity that attracts • Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, located off Ruby Mine many visitors one they are here is gem mining. Since gem Road in the Cowee Community. mining is such a big attraction here, there are many gem • Sheffield Mine, located in Cowee Valley on Leatherman Gap mines and gift shops in the area. Road. • Mason’s Ruby and Sapphire Mine, located in upper Burn- Gem mining has a unique history here in Macon County. ingtown. It began in the 1870s when minerals were mined commer- • Mason Mountain Mine & Cowee Gift Shop, located on High- cially and shipped out of Macon County. Most of the min- way 28 North (Bryson City Road). erals that were being mined were corundum, mica and ka- • Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine, located on U.S. 441. • Rose Creek Mine in Cowee Community. olin. Two mining companies, the American Prospecting & • Jackson Hole Gem Mine & Gift Shop, located between Mining Co. and the U.S. Ruby Mining Co., hoped to find the Highlands and Franklin along U.S. 64. source of the rubies that were found in the corundum mines. Items to bring along for your mining adventure: They ended the search in the early 20th century, leaving the • Plastic storage bags with zipper closings or plastic contain- area open to gem enthusiasts. The source of the rubies was ers with lids to take your stones home. • Rubber gloves, a hat and sunblock never found. • A towel to wipe your hands Every gem miner needs to know the three C’s of gem • Clothes that are OK to get wet or dirty mining: color, clarity and crystal. • Pack a picnic lunch Color is one of the most important things to look for • And don’t forget the camera! while gem mining. Some of the gems you should look for are rubies, which are a silky red color; garnets, which are a reddish brown; and sapphires, which come in every other color. Quartz, which is a smoky clear color, also is a very popular stone that many may find while gem mining. Clarity refers to the amount of inclusions in a stone. Inclusions are any type of foreign substance in the stone. Crystal refers to the crystallized structure of the stone. One other important thing that every interested miner needs to know is the difference between salted, enriched and native mines. Salted mines are mines that have native stones that are brought in from all over the area, enriched mines are mines that have stones that are not native to this area, and native mines are mines that have stones that are only native to this area. Most of the mines will provide visitors with buckets of dirt, which usually cost between $10 and $30, depending on which mine you visit and the size of the bucket that you pick. Only a few of the gem mines allow digging. All of the mines in the area provide customers with a screen for panning, a flume (a flowing stream of water) and a bench for the guests to sit on while mining. Gem min- ing consists of three simple steps: Fill the screen with dirt, place the screen in the flume and wash the dirt away from the stones. One of the first places to visit before starting your gem mining adventure should be the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum. At the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum guests will find information on gems and minerals in the area. Located on Main Street in Downtown Franklin, Ruby City Gems is one of North Carolina’s largest and finest gem and mineral shops. With a free museum, featuring the world- wide collection of the late Ernest Klatt, this place is the per- fect spot to stop if you are interested in learning more about gems and minerals.
58 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 59 Getting a Macon County education The vision of the Macon County School System is to be a globally competitive school system striving for continuing School Principal Phone Number improvement. The schools embrace a mission of challeng- ing all students to achieve their academic potential and be Cartoogechaye Josh Lynch (828) 524-2845 successful in the 21st century. Iotla Valley Michelle Bell (828) 524-2938 East Franklin Shirley Parks (828) 524-3216 The school system consists of several community schools, Franklin High Barry Woody (828) 524-6467 which are located within established geographic communi- Highlands Brian Jetter (828) 526-2147 ties of the county. Early College (828) 369-7331 Currently, 11 schools serve the children of Macon Macon Middle Scot Maslin (828) 524-3766 County: Cartoogechaye (K-4), Iotla Valley (K-4), East Mountain View Int. Mark Sutton (828) 349-1325 Franklin (K-4), Franklin High School (9-12), Highlands (K- Nantahala James Bryan (828) 321-4388 12), Macon Early College, Macon Middle (7-8), Mountain South Macon Allison Guynn (828) 369-0796 Union Academy Diane Cotton (828) 369-1277 View Intermediate (5-6), Nantahala School (K-12), South Board of Education (828) 524-3314 Macon (K-4) and Union Academy. The public schools currently serve 4,424 students. Any For more information about the Macon County School System, call the central office at (828) 524-3314, or visit the child entering the Macon County School System is re- website at macon.k12.nc.us. quired to show proof of having all necessary immunizations. Beginning in 2016-2017, a physical will be required for all new enrollees in North Carolina. The schools have more than 60 teachers who have earned National Board Certification, the highest professional cre- dential in the field of teaching. In addition to its dedicated employees, volunteers in the Macon County School System donate more than 41,000 hours each year to provide the human resources needed to complete hundreds of tasks in schools and give one-on-one support to students, resulting in fewer students working below grade level. Tests in grades 3-8 in the subject areas of reading, math- ematics and science (fifth and eighth grades) are conducted yearly. At the high school level, end-of-course testing is ad- ministered in English II, Biology and Math I. The results are reported at the local, state and federal level. Test scores are used to compute the North Carolina School Report Card and the Federal “Every Student Succeeds Act.” In addition to core courses, Macon County students benefit from a variety of programs designed to enhance performance and broaden academic experiences. The needs of exceptional children, academically gifted and at-risk students are met through programs that provide support for those areas. The Macon County School System also provides Career and Technical Education (CTE) cours- es in the following program areas: Agriculture, Business and Information Technology, Marketing, Family Consumer Sciences, Healthy Occupations, and Trade and Industry. Additionally, students in Macon County Schools have the opportunity to earn college credits along with high school credits in all high schools, beginning in their junior year, with Macon Early College partnering with Southwestern Community College to offer college classes as early as the freshman year. Macon County also offers after-school and Summer Edventure programs to support student academic achievement during non-school hours. As the population of Macon County increases and updated state requirements are mandated, the county has made an effort to consolidate the smaller community schools and replace them with larger, more centralized schools. 60 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 61 SCC growing to meet Macon’s needs
Founded in 1964, Southwestern Community College continues to grow to meet the needs of Macon County resi- dents, and college leaders have announced expansion plans to accommodate the growth that’s expected to continue in years ahead. Consistently ranking among North Carolina’s top com- munity colleges, SCC also has received national recognition. SCC currently operates, or partners with, five facilities in Macon County: the Cecil Groves Center (Macon Campus), Macon Early College (MEC), Jerry Sutton Public Safety Training Center, the Macon Annex and LBJ Job Corps. The Macon Campus continues to add programs and course offerings: Students can earn an associate degree for college transfer, a Notary Public certificate, and a Nurse Aide certificate. A one-stop shop for student services includes col- lege placement testing and specific tests for Health Science programs. The Macon Campus also offers student activi- ties, clubs and organizations, an onsite bookstore, comput- er labs, a Learning Assistance Center (LAC) for tutoring, the University Transfer Advising Center (UTAC), Business Office services and more. Conveniently located near the Greenway, the surroundings are beautiful and provide an at- mosphere conducive to learning. Targeting working adults who are looking to improve or switch careers, Southwestern also is expanding its afternoon/evening course offerings. The Macon Campus is perpetually adding more work- force innovations and continuing education classes such as photography, sign language, basic computer skills, business and industry training, as well as high school equivalency preparation and English as a Second Language. Located at the Macon County Industrial Park, the Jerry Sutton Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) has been open since 1990. The PSTC provides both basic and advanced training for personnel in emergency medical services (EMS), law enforcement, and fire and rescue. The Macon Annex is located next to the courthouse in downtown Franklin. This facility houses high school equiv- alency preparation, English as a Second Language classes, and Job and Career Preparation lab. The Job and Career Preparation lab assists with job searching, résumé building, interviewing practice, career assessment and much more to help individuals develop their professional and personal skills. Opened in 1987, this was SCC’s first facility in Macon County and served as a temporary site for SCC’s curriculum courses while the Groves Center was being built. SCC partners with Job Corps to offer instructional ser- vices for at-risk youth. The LBJ facility is located on Wayah Road and offers a range of vocational programs intended to create opportunities for participants who otherwise have lit- tle or none. SCC remains committed to meeting the educa- tional needs of Macon County residents. As partners in economic development, SCC continues to grow and expand its programs. Come by any SCC site, call 828-306-7001 or visit southwesterncc.edu.
62 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Heritage has a home at Cowee School The Historic Cowee School, built in 1943 on the site of The Historic Cowee School receives some annual fund- a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp, is home to the Macon ing from the Macon County Board of Commissioners and County Heritage Center. also is supported by grants and donations. The venue, located at 51 Cowee School Drive, hosts a number of cultural events and classes throughout the year as a means of preserving the area’s rich history, entertaining the community and teaching the region’s youth about a number of different arts and crafts. One of the school’s main attractions each year is the con- cert series, which starts in spring and runs into fall with a concert each month. The concerts typically feature a local band, in addition to having food, a jam session and open house. Tickets range from $10 to $20 per concert, with perfor- mances taking place one Saturday night a month. A list of upcoming performances is available at the center’s website, coweeschool.org. The center also features a mix of arts and educational experiences. Offerings differ throughout the year, but the center recently hosted a daytime pottery wheel class for be- ginners focused on basic throwing techniques, trimming and glazing. Another class focused on hand-building, while there also is open studio hours for people to come in and work on their craft. The school also plays host to the Cowee Farmer’s Market, which is open on Tuesday afternoons.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 63 Libraries: Worth checking out
If your image of the public library is of a book-lined, staid and silent sanctuary for the scholarly, chances are you hav- en’t visited a library in Macon County. Libraries are community gathering places that meet the diverse needs of all residents. The Macon County Public Library is a destination for people of all ages who are look- ing not only for reading, listening and viewing material but also programs and activities of all kinds, from educational to entertainment to personal enrichment. The Macon County Public Library, as a member of the three-county Fontana Regional Library system, provides varied services for all ages and segments of the population, from preschoolers to retirees. The library counts nearly 30,000 people as registered users. While books remain the heart of the library’s holdings, with more than 200,000 print books available in Fontana’s six libraries, if you prefer to listen to your books, or watch movies, you’ll find nearly 25,000 movies and books in DVD, CD and MP3 formats. Macon County residents also have access to materials across the state with NC Cardinal, an online catalog of 18 North Carolina public libraries. You also can check out the library’s ebooks through its collection of ebooks on e-iNC. Many of the 230,000 visitors who stop in each year prob- ably plan to check out books. Nearly 26,000 people came to the library last year for a variety of educational workshops and meetings, to read current newspapers or magazines, en- joy art and history displays, peruse research materials or find a quiet place for study or reflection. Children came to story times to build early literacy skills and activities to help them learn more about art, science, math and different cultures. Support for students enrolled in public and private schools, as well as those choosing to homeschool, use the li- The library also recently started planting little versions brary for study space and resources, both print and electron- of itself across the community. Little Free Libraries, where ic. Students are assisted with research tools and specific sub- people can come pick up a book near their home without jects necessary for the successful completion of homework need of a library card, have been established near Franklin assignments. The library also provides proctoring services Town Hall, at the Holly Springs community building and at for those students taking part in distance or online learning. Iotla United Methodist Church. People can take a book or Visitors to the library used computers and the Internet leave a book at any time there. more than 54,000 times throughout the year, including 19,000 wireless sessions accessing the library’s WI-FI net- work with laptops, tablets, phones and other mobile devices. The library is supported by an active group of volun- teers, the Friends of the Macon County Public Library. The Friends provide much needed funding for educational pro- grams, computers, books, magazines and other items that make the library a vital part of the community. The Friends have been helping to build the library’s endowment, part of the Macon County Community Foundation’s family of funds, which are affiliated with the North Carolina Community Foundation. Donors who wish to learn about making a donation to the library or its endowment may contact Karen Wallace, direc- tor of the Macon County Public Library, at (828) 524-3600.
64 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 The Macon County Public Library is located on Siler Farm Road in Franklin. The hours of operation are: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The Nantahala Community Library is a small branch li- brary located on the Nantahala School grounds. The library has a variety of best sellers, paperbacks, children’s books, newspapers, magazines and videos. Computers at the library are equipped with access to the Internet and educational games for children. A wi-fi network is available for those with their own mobile devices. The Nantahala Community Library is located at 128 Nantahala School Road, Topton. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Hudson Library in Highlands has been in operation since 1884 and is one of the oldest free public libraries in North Carolina. The Hudson Library has a robust collection of printed books, recorded books and DVDs. The library subscribes to more than 80 magazines and carries 12 different newspapers covering local, regional and national news. Public comput- ers provide visitors with access to the Internet and a wireless network allows those with their own mobile devices to stay connected. The Hudson Library is located on East Main Street in Highlands, and is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Call (828) 526-3031 for more information.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 65 66 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 67 Clubs and Organizations
American Legion Post 108 Commander Jim McGill, (828) 524-4306 Meets second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. 614 W. Main St., Franklin
Folk Heritage Association www.folkheritageassociation.org Anne Hyder, (828) 524-6564 Meetings vary based on activities P.O. Box 1416, Franklin
Franklin Garden Club Nancy Wiley, (828) 524-0020 or [email protected]. Meets first Monday of every month at 11 a.m. at The Boiler Room, 1024 Georgia Road, Franklin.
High Mountain Squares (828) 342-1560 or (828) 371-2945 Meets first, third and fifth Friday of the month at 6:15- 6:45 p.m. for workshop and from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. for dance at the Macon County Community Building., 1288 Georgia Road 820 Brookwood Drive, Franklin
Kiwanis Club of Franklin (828) 369-5383, [email protected] Meets Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. at The Boiler Room, 1024 Georgia Road, Franklin P.O. Box 90, Franklin, NC 28744 Nantahala Hiking Club Olga Pader, (828) 369-2457 Macon County Cancer Support Group Nantahalahikingclub.org Brenda Wooten, (828) 369-9221 Meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post 7339 Angel Medical Center cafeteria 60 W. Palmer St. Franklin, 828-524-2953 Meets first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. Rotary Club of Franklin Daybreak Reggie Holland, president www.franklindaybreakrotary.org Meets Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. in the Angel Medical Center Cafeteria, 120 Riverview St., Franklin
Rotary Club of Franklin Lenny Jordan, president www.franklinrotary.com Meets at noon on Wednesdays at First Presbyterian Church’s Tartan Hall, 26 Church St., Franklin P.O. Box 325, Franklin, NC 28734
68 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Community Clubs Local community clubs are part of the Western North Carolina Communities (WNCC), which ties together all community development organizations in Western North Carolina. Each year, this association awards several thousand dol- lars in prizes to outstanding communities through various competitions. The county’s nine community clubs provide a forum for neighbors to work together on projects, share ideas and strengthen community bonds. Debbie Hunter at Macon County Extension Service is available to help individuals learn more about community clubs. She can be reached at 828-349-2050.
Community Meeting Date Time Location Carson Most Saturdays 6:45 p.m. Carson Community Building Clarks Chapel Last Monday 7 p.m. Clarks Chapel Community Building Cowee Last Monday 6:30 p.m. Historic Cowee School Cafeteria Cullasaja 1st Tuesday 7 p.m. Cullasaja Volunteer Fire Dept. Holly Springs 3rd Monday 7 p.m. Holly Springs Community Building Nantahala 1st Monday 7 p.m. Check community bulletin board or Facebook Otto 1st Monday 7 p.m. Otto Community Building Upper Cartoogechaye 4th Tuesday 7 p.m. Gillespie Chapel Pine Grove 1st Monday 7 p.m. Pine Grove School (April - Nov.)
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 69 Nonprofits are ready to help Al-Anon and Alateen are fellowships of men and wom- en with one purpose — to help each other with problems caused by someone else’s drinking. Call Al-Anon/Alateen at (828) 349-4357, for meeting dates, additional information and help.
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and wom- en from all walks of life who share their experience, strength and hope to attain and maintain their sobriety. The only re- quirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees. For more information or to speak with a member in Western North Carolina, call (828) 254-8539 or visit aancmco.org.
The American Cancer Society raises funds for cancer research and awareness of cancer-related issues in the com- munity. The Relay Event Leadership Committee meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Depot Room of the Fun Factory. Contact Valerie Norton, ACS community manager, at (828) 342-2774 for more information, or visit www.cancer.org.
Appalachian Animal Rescue Center is the only private nonprofit animal shelter in the county. One of the shelter’s primary goals is to house stray and abandoned animals while attempting to place them for adop- tion in suitable homes. If you want to adopt a specific breed or if you want to find a home for your animal, call the center at (828) 524-4588. The Rescue Center helps with spaying and neutering by offering a low-cost program to the citizens of Macon County. The center also operates a thrift shop to raise money to fund the shelter. The thrift shop is located at 1512 Old Murphy Road in Franklin. The thrift store phone number is (828) 369-3046. people in time of crisis when help for these people from oth- The Appalachian Animal Rescue Center is located at 851 er agencies is either unavailable or insufficient. Lake Emory Road in Franklin. CareNet provides food, medicine and other needs for peo- The Macon County Animal Control Shelter is located at ple who have fallen through the “safety net,” and, to the ex- 1377 Lakeside Drive. The AARC shelter is open 9 a.m. to 5 tent that funds are available, will also provide assistance with p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on prescription drugs, rent and utilities. Persons in need should Saturday. For more information, call (828) 349-2106. go to the Department of Social Services at 1832 Lakeside Fees for adopting dogs: $65 includes spaying/neutering, rabies, DHLPP, Bordetella, Heartworm check, and de-worm- er. Fees for adopting cats: $65 includes spaying/neutering, rabies and de-wormer. All adoptions include a free first-time physical exam with participating veterinarians. For additional information and to view pets that are looking for loving homes, visit maconnc.org and click on the “For Residents” link.
CareNet (Macon County Care Network) is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation of Macon County churches through which individuals, businesses and other organizations can combine their efforts to provide a benevolent ministry to
70 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Dr, Franklin,before coming to CareNet. The CareNet office Macon Citizens Habilities, Inc. advocates the rights is located at 130 Bidwell Street, telephone (828) 369-2642. of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabil- Hours are 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. ities. MCH provides comprehensive residential and day services in Macon and Jackson counties to 33 persons. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Approximately 45-50 persons with IDD are served at Macon Christian housing ministry financed through private dona- Citizens Enterprises, a day program for adults with devel- tions and volunteer labor. The goal of Habitat is to elimi- opmental disabilities. MCH services include 4 ICF-IID res- nate poverty housing conditions in Macon County. Call the idential facilities, 2 DDA residential facilities, Alternative Habitat office at (828) 369-3716, Monday through Saturday Family Living Arrangements (AFL), and NC Innovations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or maconcountyhabitat.org. residential and community-based services. For more information or to make referrals, call (828) 524- Kids Interdisciplinary Services Inc. (KIDS Place) is 5888 or email [email protected]. a private, nonprofit children’s advocacy center that serves abused and neglected children and their families. KIDS The Macon County Department of Social Services of- Place provides medical exams, crisis and on going counsel- fice is located at 1832 Lakeside Dr. next to the Macon County ing, a child-friendly setting for interviews, court support and Health Department. The Senior Services and Community education, and community education about child abuse. Resource Center are located at 108 Wayah St. in the former Nationally accredited by the National Children’s Alliance, public library site. KIDs Place facilitates a monthly multidisciplinary case re- Social Services provide various services and programs view meeting with representatives from the many different to assist children, families and adults. Economic support agencies that are normally involved in child abuse investi- services include Food and Nutrition Services, Medicaid, gations. Those agencies include social services law enforce- Work First Family Assistance (WFFA), Child Support ment, the district attorney’s office, a pediatrician, mental Enforcement, Special Assistance for adult care home pay- health professionals and a victim’s advocate. ments, foster care and child care subsidies. Social Work There is no charge to the child or his/her family for ser- Services available include protective services for children vices provided by KIDS Place. and adults, foster care for children and adults, licensing of KIDS Place is located on 330 W. Main St. For more in- foster-care homes, adoption services, licensing of adult care formation, contact (828) 524-3199 or visit kidsplacecac.org. homes an family care, court-ordered home studies, guard- ianships, payee services and adult placement services.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 71 For additional information about the Department of which those with mental illness share their experiences, as Social Sevices and programs provided, call (828) 349-2124. well as the knowledge that recovery is possible. For local information, call Donita at (828) 526-9510. Macon Program for Progress (MPP) is a private, non- For general information about NAMI or about mental ill- profit community action agency whose mission is to mobi- ness, visit nami.org. lize local, state and federal resources to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty. Narcotics Anonymous is an international, communi- MPP serves the community by identifying problems and ty-based association of recovering drug addicts. works collectively to develop innovative solutions and ad- Narcotics Anonymous meets on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at vance the general welfare of the people of Macon County. Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, 70 Trimont View Drive, Services include: Head Start Preshcool, Early Head Start, Franklin, and Fridays at 7:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Disabilities Services for children 0-3, Head Start, N.C. Church, 26 Church St., Franklin. Meetings are open to the Pre-K, HUD Rental Assistance, Job Training, and Holiday public. Angels. The 24-hour helpline for the N.C. Mountain Area of Macon Program for Progress main offices are located at Narcotics Anonymous is (888) 764-0365. 350 Orchard View Drive behind Lowes of Franklin in the New Horizons II Center. REACH is the local resource for victims of family Office hours are 8-5 Monday through Friday. violence and sexual assault. For further information, call (828) 524-4471 or (800) A nonprofit organization, REACH provides the commu- 563-4022. nity with a 24-hour crisis intervention hotline for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. The Mountain AIDS Project is a not-for-profit organi- Help is available to any woman or man — married or zation whose mission is to provide services and encourage- single, with or without children — as well as children and ment to HIV/AIDS-infected individuals and their families. teens who are experiencing violence or the threat of violence The project serves six counties in Western North Carolina in a relationship. including Macon, Jackson, Clay, Swain, Cherokee and The program offers a 24-hour crisis line, a safe residence Graham. It also serves the Qualla Boundary. for battered women, men and children, support in legal ac- If you are interested in joining the Project or would like tions, counseling and goal planning for the future, referrals, more information, you are welcome to attend the next regu- and rape crisis companions for victims. Telephone (828) lar meeting. 369-5544 or e-mail [email protected]. All Regular monthly meetings are held on the first Monday calls are confidential and services are free. In an emergency of each month at 6 p.m. at the Macon County Health Center, situation dial 911. 1830 Lakeview Drive, Franklin. REACH also has a bargain store located at 158 Heritage You may also reach them at P.O. Box 331, Franklin, NC Hollow Drive, Franklin. For more information about donat- 28744. ing merchandise, call (828) 369-2040.
Mountain Mediation Services promotes peaceful con- Senior Services provides assistance to senior and dis- flict resolution services in the seven western counties of abled adults including adult daycare services, home deliv- North Carolina. Mediation includes community, family and ered meals, congregate meals and in-home services. The truancy mediations. Trainings in youth and adult mediation, Community Resource Center offers a single point of access bullying prevention and conflict resolution are also offered. to information and referrals. The Franklin office is located in Room 141 in the first The Department of Social Services and Senior Services/ floor of the Macon County Courthouse. For more informa- Community Resource Center are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., tion, call (828) 349-2561 or visit mountainmediation.org. Monday through Friday. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a na- tionwide organization of people who have mental illness and/or have family members with mental illness. The local affiliate, NAMI Appalachian South, provides education, support and advocacy for those with mental ill- ness as well as for their family members. NAMI holds regular support group meetings every Thursday at 15 West Palmer St., Franklin, and offers a free 12-session Family to Family Education course. This course provides information as well as skill building in an interactive, supportive environment that enables people to cope more effectively with mental illness in their family. NAMI has a presentation entitled “In Our own Voice: Living With Mental Illness,” a public education program in 72 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 After hours abuse or neglect referrals can be made by call- ing 911 and asking for the social worker on call. For more information, visit www.maconnc.org or call (828) 349-2124 for Social Services; (828) 349-2058 for Senior Services; (828) 349-0211 for the Community Resource Center.
Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center offers care and support to women with unplanned pregnancies, includ- ing free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, volunteer coun- seling and education in a Christ-centered way. Support services are provided daily, Monday through Friday with a 24-hour hotline (1-800-395-HELP). The center also offers free baby clothes and items, maternity clothes, referrals to other community services, temporary housing and shelter, parenting education, educational materials, adoption referrals, post-abortion counseling, friendship and encouragement. Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center is a faith-based nonprofit organization supported by churches and individuals. All contributions are tax deductible. Volunteers of all ages, including retired businessmen and women, who have various talents and skills in various fields, are welcome. Orientation classes, training sessions and advanced training are available. Donations are accepted for baby and maternity items. The Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center is located at 226 E. Palmer St. in Franklin. For information, call (828) 349-3200 or visit [email protected].
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 73 Macon offers premier health care facilities
Macon County has up-to-date medical facilities — in- cluding two hospitals, a county health center, a sports medicine facility specializing in orthopedics, a rehabilitation center and two nursing home facilities. Home health care also is available.
Angel Medical Center Angel Medical Center (AMC), located at 120 Riverview St. in Franklin, is a multipurpose acute care health facility that has been serving the residents of Macon and surrounding counties for more than 90 years. AMC is a full-service hospital that is affiliated with the Mission Health System in Asheville and accredited by the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Services provided by AMC include laparoscopic and orthopedic surgery, cardiology, lithotripsy, ophthalmology, oncology and chemotherapy, nuclear medicine, physi- cal and occupational therapy, obstetrics and gynecology, newborn care, prenatal education, mammography, MRI and CT services, osteoporosis/bone density screenings, ultrasounds, stereotactic breast biopsy, 24-hour accredited lab with full services employing the latest in technology for both in-patient and out-patient lab services, 24-hour emergency tion. Angel Home Care provides rehabilitation therapy, fam- department services, sleep lab, nutritional services, ADA- ily counseling, skilled nursing and hospice care. accredited diabetes education program with certified diabe- tes educators and more. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Call (828) 524-8411 for more information. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, also affiliated with Mission Health, provides acute medical care, including 24/7 Angel Urgent Care Center emergency room services to residents of Macon County. AMC also operates Angel Urgent Care Center (AUCC) In addition to a wide range of diagnostic services, and Angel Home Care and Hospice. the hospital provides long-term skilled and intermediate The staff of the AUCC treats non-emergency medi- nursing care and rehabilitation services to patients through cal problems when your regular doctor is unavailable. its own short-term rehab program, as well as the Eckerd The center also offers occupational health screenings, Living Center. drug testing and services for area employers. The Urgent The hospital features 21 private rooms, including two Care Center is located at 195 Franklin Plaza, on U.S. 441 suites, while the Eckerd Living Center serves up to 80 S., and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 residents. p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No The hospital includes a medical staff of more than 40 appointment is necessary. Call (828) 369-4427 for informa- physicians.
74 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 A fully accredited laboratory performs 95 percent of procedures in-house. Onsite radiological services include MRI, nuclear medicine, diagnostic x-ray, fluoroscopy, CT scanning, general and vascular ultrasound, standard and stress echocardiography, and accredited mammography. Bone densitometry is provided through a mobile diagnostic service. In addition to full physical therapy and respiratory services, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital also provides cardiac rehabilitation, as well as healthy lifestyle and fitness pro- grams through HealthTracks. Nutrition and diabetes man- agement services also are available. As an “Eden Alternative” facility, the Eckerd Living Center is committed to providing those requiring long-term skilled nursing care with a truly human community that emphasizes close, continuing relationships with children, plants, animals and other adults. The hospital also serves those who are terminally ill in southern Macon and Jackson counties through Highlands- Cashiers Hospice. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and the Eckerd Living Center are both fully accredited by the Joint Commission. The hospital’s modern campus, which first opened in 1993, is located on U.S. 64 between Highlands and Cashiers. Visit highlandscashiershospital.org or call (828) 526- 2371 for more information.
Duke LifePoint Hospitals Duke LifePoint Hospitals deliver a full spectrum of health
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 75 care for people living in the area. Locally, Lifepoint is com- your health by providing you with tools to improve your prised of two hospitals, Harris Regional Hospital, an 86-bed diet. Assistance is available for clients with Type I and Type acute care facility located in Sylva, and Swain Community II Diabetes, as well as clients who may want to lose weight, Hospital, a 48-bed facility located in Bryson City. Harris control blood pressure, improve cholesterol, control food Regional Urgent Care is located in Sylva and is open seven allergies or manage other medical conditions. days a week, from 8 am to 6:30 pm, (828) 631-9462. • WIC, a supplemental food program for pregnant wom- The system also owns Harris Regional Hospital Medical en, new mothers, and children younger than 5 years old. Park of Franklin in Macon County, located at 55 Holly WIC provides vouchers which can be redeemed for healthy Springs Road just off U.S. 441. The Medical Park of Franklin foods. WIC also provides breast-feeding counseling and is an outpatient medical facility housing the primary care support services. practice for Center for Family Medicine and a vareity of oth- • School health services provided to all public schools, er specialities. Call (828) 349-3550 for information. which include care for acute illness, case management, development of care plans, medication and immunization Macon County Public Health reviews, support for communicable disease control and pro- Macon County Public Health serves all Macon County motion of staff wellness. residents and is located in the Human Services Building at • The family outreach service Care Coordination for 1830 Lakeside Drive (just off the Lake Emory Road). Children (CC4C) program provides families with children Learn more about the health center at maconnc.org/ 5 years old and younger with services and resources to health-department. The Health Center provides a wide range meet the family’s needs through home visits, doctor visits, of services which include: telephone calls and personal contacts. Participants must • Outreach clinics in the communities of Highlands and qualify with a care manager before receiving services. Nantahala. All services at these clinics are by appointment • Pregnancy Care Management: This service provides only and include immunizations, WIC, family planning, comprehensive, evidence-based, coordinated maternity care BCCCP, and some laboratory tests. with a goal of improving birth outcomes. This service is • Independent clinical and environmental health services available for Medicaid-eligible women who are at risk for for the general public and clinic patients. The laboratory may poor birth outcomes. file Medicare, Medicaid and some insurance companies. • The state Smart Start program, which provides training Charges vary depending on services performed and income. and consultation to childcare providers in the areas of policy • A community preparedness coordinator, who works to development, resource referral and care planning for ensure a state of readiness for any public health crisis which children with special needs. It also provides educational may arise. This includes staff training, development of disas- programs for children through age 5. ter plans, organizing disaster drills and procuring emergency • Health education services and programs, available for supplies and equipment. The coordinator also facilitates the health center patients, public schools, local agencies, com- Macon County Disaster Preparedness Team and acts as a li- munity groups and the general public. Programs include aison to the Public Health Regional Surveillance Team. health screenings, first aid and CPR, tobacco cessation • Dental care, available for Macon County residents of all resources and many others. Information also is available ages. The Molar Roller is a mobile dental clinic that provides on local health statistics and community health resources. preventive and restorative services for residents younger • Other services, including environmental health, an than 18 years old. A separate adult dental clinic, located at immunization clinic, tuberculosis control, communica- 108 Macon Center Drive in Franklin, provides comprehen- ble disease services, sexually transmitted disease and HIV sive dental services for adults. services, family planning, breast and cervical cancer control, • Registered dietitians, who can help you take control of a prenatal clinic and a child health clinic.
76 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Veterans Outpatient Clinic The Franklin Community-based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), which opened in August 2008, is located at 647 Wayah St. in Franklin. The Franklin CBOC operates Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only. The Asheville VA Medical Center staffs the clinic with three primary care physicians and two mental health physicians. Approximately 27 indi- viduals are on staff at the clinic, including a pharmacist, so- cial worker, nurses, optometrist and ancillary personnel. The Franklin clinic provides care to some 4,000 veterans in the six westernmost North Carolina counties (Jackson, Macon, Swain, Cherokee, Clay and Graham). Call (828) 369-1781 for more information.
Macon Valley Nursing/ Rehab Located at 3195 Old Murphy Road in Franklin, Macon Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is a 200-bed nursing facility. The firm is North Carolina licensed and certified for Medicare and Medicaid, Veterans Administration and man- aged care organizations. Macon Valley offers all levels of nursing care along with a specialized unit for rehabilitation therapy. Call (828) 524-7806 for information.
Franklin House The recently opened Franklin House, located at 186 One Center Court in Franklin, is a Meridian Senior Living facili- ty. It offers companion and private rooms, individual climate control in each room and more. Call 828-363-9965 for more information.
Grandview Manor Care Center Located at 150 Crisp St. in Franklin, Grandview Manor has been offering assisted living care in Macon County since 1968. The facility is a privately-owned, 82-bed home, and is licensed by the State of North Carolina. Grandview Manor has a 24-hour experienced staff, a special care unit serving dementia patients, planned activities, fine food transporta- tion and cable TV. It is located near the hospital and down- town Franklin.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 77 Visit the care facility or call (828) 524-4425 for more information.
Community Care Clinic of Franklin Connections The Community Care Clinic of Franklin is a local, non- Angel Medical Center: (828) 524-8411 profit organization that believes everyone deserves basic health care. Staffed by volunteer health care workers, the Angel Urgent Care: (828) 369-4171 clinic’s goal is to provide health services to people in need who live in local communities. Community Care Clinic (828) 349-2085 The Community Care Clinic provides free health care services to adults and children who are uninsured, cannot Franklin House: (828) 363-9965 afford private medical care, and live and work in and around Grandview Manor: (828) 524-4425 Macon County. The clinic diagnoses and treats acute and chronic illness- Highlands Hospital: (828) 526- 2371 es, assists with obtaining medications at reduced or no cost, makes referrals for laboratory and x-ray services, educates Macon Valley Nursing: (828) 524-7806 patients with diabetes to self-manage their disease, provides behavioral health counseling, and information on other M.C. Health Depart.: (828) 349-2081 available services in the community. The clinic is located in the Macon County Health Veterans Outpatient Clinic: (828) 369-1781 Department and is open on Monday evenings. Appointments are required. For more information or to Franklin Medical Park: (828) 349-3550 make an appointment, call (828) 349-2085.
78 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 79 Macon County: A safe place to live
If there’s an emergency, the only number you need to know is 911. But if you want to find out more about the local agencies that serve the community, here’s what you need to know.
Macon County Sheriff’s Office Robert Holland is the sheriff of Macon County, having been re-elected to office in November 2014. Holland believes that “working together we can make a positive difference in our community.” The sheriff’s office administers the D.A.R.E. Program, which is an officer-led series of classroom lessons that teach children from kindergarten through 12th grade how to resist peer pressure and live productive drug- and violence-free lives. The office also takes part in a number of other pro- grams, including participating in charity events such as Shop With A Cop, and supporting the School Resource Officer program. Contact Holland at 1820 Lakeside Dr., Franklin, NC 28734. Phone: (W) (828) 349-2152; (H) (828) 369-6096. David Adams serves as the police chief for the Town of Franklin. The state-of-the-art FPD office, located at 218 W. Police Departments Palmer St., is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 Franklin and Highlands operate their own police p.m. and can be reached at (828) 524-2864. departments. The Franklin Police Department was established in 1855
80 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 and is a full service municipal agency comprised of 19 full time employees. Of these, 18 are sworn law enforcement of- ficers. The department takes pride in providing professional law enforcement and community-oriented police services 24 hours a day, seven days a week to the residents and visi- tors of Franklin. The department hosts routine Coffee With A Cop events at venues around Franklin to give community members an opportunity to meet them in a non-emergency setting. Bill Harrell serves as the police chief for the Town of Highlands. The HPD is located at 372 Oak St., phone (828) 526-1769. The department strives to provide a safe environ- ment for all citizens through the collective contributions of the community.
Fire and Rescue In an area that has as many remote regions as Macon does, the county’s fire departments are a vital part of each community’s well being. Each department is made up of many hardworking and dedicated volunteers. If you’re interested in supporting the fire department in your area with time or money, contact the departments at the numbers listed. (The phone numbers listed are for those interested in sup- porting the fire departments or making donations — please do not call these numbers to report a fire. Call 911 to report a fire.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 81 Macon County Fire & Rescue Departments
Burningtown-Iotla Fire & Rescue Otto Fire & Rescue Firehouse: (828) 524-7061 Firehouse: (828) 524-3473
Mountain Valley Fire & Rescue Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue Firehouse: (828) 349-3300 Firehouse: (828) 526-9032
Clarks Chapel Fire & Rescue Franklin Fire & Rescue Firehouse: (828) 524-8113 Firehouse: (828) 524-2332
Cowee Fire & Rescue West Macon Fire & Rescue Firehouse: (828) 369-7611 Firehouse: (828) 524-5925
Cullasaja Fire & Rescue Highlands Fire & Rescue Firehouse: (828) 369-5010 Firehouse: (828) 526-3645
Nantahala Fire & Rescue Emergency -- Call 911 Fire chief: (828) 321-4749
82 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Voting: Doing your civic duty
Voter Registration or visit maconnc.org/board-of-elections.html. You may register to vote with the Department of Motor Vehicles or pick up a Voter Registration Application/ Update Voting Information Form at the Macon County Library, Highlands Library, You will be assigned a voting place within the precinct town offices, Highlands Civic Center, Nantahala School, where you live when you register or when you notify the Employment Security Office or the Macon County Board of Board of Elections of an address change. You will be as- Elections Office, located in the courthouse in Franklin. signed your precinct when you register. You also may call You may register to vote in Macon County if you are: the Board of Elections for the location of your voting place. • A citizen of the United States • At least 18 years old or will be 18 by the date of the next On Election Day general election All voting places in Macon County are open from 6:30 • A legal resident of Macon County and North Carolina a.m. until 7:30 p.m. on every Election Day. Upon entering for 30 days by the date of the next election. A person con- the voting place, give your name, address and party (primary victed of a felony may register if citizenship rights have been elections only) to the precinct officials. If you are properly restored. You need to register to vote only if you are not reg- registered, you will be given the appropriate ballot and di- istered to vote in Macon County. rected to a voting machine. Voter ID is required. Registration deadline is 25 days before an election. When you register, you will be asked to declare your party affiliation. You may register in one of the following ways: Absentee voting Democrat, Libertarian, Republican or Unaffiliated. Absentee by mail: Any registered North Carolina voter You need to update your registration if you: Have moved can request an absentee ballot by mail. This type of absentee within Macon County since you registered to vote, have voting allows a voter or near relative or legal guardian to changed your name or wish to change your party affiliation. request that an absentee ballot be sent to the voter by mail. The Macon County elections office is located at 5 W. The voter may fill out the ballot and return it to the county Main St., Franklin. To contact the office, call (828) 349-2034 board of elections by the ballot return deadline.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 83 Local Government: Meetings & Officials Governance in Macon Each year at the regular December meeting, the board The Macon County Board of Commissioners is composed elects the chairman and vice chairman for the upcoming of five members, elected by a county-wide vote. Its members year. Commissioners serve on and appoint various boards serve staggered terms of four years and must be residents of and committees. their respective districts. The Macon County commissioners meet at 6 p.m. on The two incorporated town governments within Macon the second Tuesday of each month, in the Commissioners County operate with a mayor and town board/manager Boardroom on the third floor of the Macon County form of government. The governing boards in Franklin and Courthouse, 5 W. Main St., Franklin, with additional Highlands are composed of aldermen or commissioners meetings scheduled throughout the year and announced be- and the mayor, with the mayor serving as presiding officer fore hand. during meetings. Meetings are open to the public and public comment is The public schools of Macon County are governed by taken at the beginning of the regular meeting. Citizens must an elected board of education. Its five members, elected sign up for public comment and a sign-in sheet is placed in for four-year staggered terms, represent the three school the boardroom prior to the meeting. districts and the county at large. Minutes are recorded in the Register of Deeds Office and The superintendent of schools is appointed by the board a copy is on file in the County Manager’s Office. of education members. If you have any questions about the commissioners’ schedule, agenda or minutes, contact the county manager’s office at (828) 349-2025 or visit maconnc.org. Macon County Board of Commissioners Macon County commissioners are elected for four-year staggered terms. Franklin Board of Aldermen The Franklin Board of Aldermen meets at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at Town Hall, 95 E. Main St., Franklin.
Highlands Town Commission The Highlands Town Commission meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of each month, at the Community Building located at 71 Poplar St. Town Hall is located at 210 N. Fourth Street.
Board of Education The Macon County Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month at the School Administration office, located on Old Murphy Road in Franklin. During November and May, the board meets at Nantahala School. During the months of March and September, they meet at Highlands School.
84 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Macon County Board Patti Abel, vice mayor of Commissioners 110 Macon Center Drive Franklin, Franklin, NC Kevin Corbin, Chairman (C) 828-342-6072 P.O. Box 758 Email: [email protected] Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 524-7799 Billy Mashburn 299 Hurst Circle Ronnie Beale Franklin, NC 28734 177 Sloan Road (H) ƒ828-524-7921 Franklin, NC 28734 (C) 828-421-2275 (O) (828) 369-5044 Email: (H) (828) 524-4168 [email protected]
Gary Shields Barbara McRae 62 Lauren Lane 266 Harrison Ave. Franklin, NC 28734 Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 369-3919 (H) 828-524-7288 [email protected] Paul Higdon 5650 Upper Burningtown Road Joe Collins Franklin, NC 28734 217 Iotla St. (828) 369-5048 Franklin, NC 28734 (C) 828-371-0596 James P. Tate, Vice chairman (O) 828-524-0017 P.O. Box 1255, [email protected] Highlands, NC 28741 (828) 526-0388 Brandon McMahan 191 Bidwell St. Franklin, NC 28734 Franklin Board of Aldermen (C) 828-342-8045 [email protected] Mayor Bob Scott 86 Summit Drive Adam Kimsey Franklin, NC 28734 25 West Side Lane (H) 828-369-8600 Franklin, NC 28734 (C) 828-421-7843 (C) 828-421-5617 [email protected] [email protected]
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 85 Directory Services Highlands Board of Commissioners Patrick Taylor, Mayor 105 Pinecrest Road, Highlands, NC 28741 Franklin Town Hall H (828) 526-1995 The town office in Franklin is located at 95 E. Main St. C (828) 506-3138 Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. [email protected]
Highlands Town Hall Donnie Calloway The Highlands town office is located at 210 N. Fourth PO Box 495, Highlands, NC 28741 St. in Highlands, or write to P.O. Box 460, Highlands, NC H (828) 526-9755 28741, or call (828) 526-2118 or (828) 526-5266. C (828) 200-9884 Highlands’ utilities can be arranged through this office. [email protected] Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Amy E. Patterson Macon County PO Box 2289, Highlands, NC 28741 The extensions for courthouse offices and county offices H (828) 526-2814 can be reached through the courthouse switchboard. Office W (828) 526-5206 hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. [email protected]
Courthouse (828) 349-2000 John “Buzz” Dotson Agricultural Extension 349-2046 PO Box 2033, Highlands, NC 28741 Animal Control 349-2106 H (828) 526-5868 Board of Elections 349-2034 W (828) 526-5587 Building Inspection 349-2072 [email protected] Clerk of Court 349-7200 Com. Facilities Building 349-2090 Brian J. Stiehler, Mayor Pro Tempore County Manager 349-2025 474 Chowan Drive, Highlands, NC 28741 County Planning 349-2571 H/C (828) 200-9007 Court Counselor 349-2056 W (828) 787-2778 Data processing 349-2057 [email protected] Emergency dispatch 911 Economic Development 369-2306 Eric Pierson County Garage 349-2071 PO Box 547, Highlands, NC 28741 Health Department 349-2081 H (828) 526-9763 Landfill (Solid aste)W 349-2077 C (828) 371-1870 Highlands Landfill* 526-2073 [email protected] Magistrate 349-7219 Mapping 349-2088 Register of Deeds 349-2095 Senior Services 349-2058 Sheriff’s Office 349-2104 Social Services 349-2124 Tax Appraisers 349-2144 Tax Collection 349-2142 Macon Transit 349-2222 Veterans Service 349-2151 Macon County Library 524-3600 Macon Board of Education 524-3314 Franklin Fire Department 524-2332 Franklin Police Department 524-2255 Highlands Fire Department 526-3645 Highlands Police Department 526-9431
86 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Transportation in Macon County
Getting Around If you are in need of public transportation, then Macon Area Transit may be the answer. Macon Area Transit pro- vides local transportation to anyone needing a lift. Requests for transportation must be received by 2 p.m. the day pri- or to the date of the trip that is within Macon County. Out-of-county trips must be scheduled at least one week in advance. Passengers who need assistance beyond boarding and exiting from the vehicles should have an aide with them. Discounted fares are available for those who qualify. Escorts are not required to pay for their transportation. Call (828) 349-2222 for more information or to schedule transportation.
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 87 Vehicle Registration A title or proof of the lien holder’s name and address must be provided when registering vehicles, as well as proof of liability insurance. A license plate may not be obtained with- out liability insurance coverage. To obtain or renew your North Carolina license plate for motor vehicle registration, go to the tag office at 118 Depot St., Franklin or call the office at (828) 369-8165.
Safety Inspection A N.C. Vehicle Safety & Emissions Inspection is required before a vehicle can be registered, and annually before reg- istration can be renewed. Many local service stations, auto dealerships and repair facilities provide this service. Look for the sign that verifies a licensed station. Call (828) 3698165 or visit ncdot.gov/dmv/vehicle/reg- istration/inspection for more information about required in- spections. full-time residents, should be prepared for a written test that must be successfully completed, and a road sign test. In Rules of the Road addition, residents moving to North Carolina from another Briefly, here are just a few of North Carolina’s traffic state must provide proof of insurance, a social security card rules that may differ from those in other states. or present a letter of clearance before getting a new driv- • All North Carolina motorists are required to use head- er’s license. First-time drivers and new residents must have lights whenever using windshield wipers during inclement Form DL-123 completed by their insurance company prior weather. to taking the driver’s license exam. The company must be • Mandatory seat belt use for driver and front-seat pas- licensed to do business in North Carolina. sengers. All children younger than 16 years old also must be Drivers younger than 18 years old must provide a Driving buckled regardless of where they are sitting in a car. Eligibility Certificate or a high school diploma or its equiva- • Child safety seats must be used for children younger lent. Certificates can be obtained from local school systems. than 8 years old or weighing less than 80 pounds. For chil- The Graduated Drivers License Bill delays unsupervised dren past infant and toddler stages, a booster seat must be driving privileges for inexperienced drivers. Check with the used. local DMV for details and restrictions. • Turning right on red (at a traffic light) is permitted, un- After studying the manual and completing Form DL-123, less otherwise posted, after making a complete stop. visit the local driver’s license examiners’ office, located on • Motorcyclists must wear a helmet and burn headlight. the corner of Palmer Street and Patton Avenue, between the • Emergency vehicles: Police cars, ambulances, fire en- hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Road gines and rescue squad vehicles are always entitled to the tests are given from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. right of way. When approaching an emergency vehicle that Driver’s license testing includes road sign recognition is pulled onto the side of the road, drivers are required to and vision tests. Certain circumstances may make it neces- move to the lane farthest from the emergency vehicle, or to sary for some people to undergo more testing, such as an reduce speed. actual driving test. • Pedestrians have the right-of-way in all cross walks. • In Macon County, the speed limit on major highways is 55 mph, unless otherwise posted. Inside municipal corporate limits, 35 mph is the limit unless otherwise posted. There is a 40 mph minimum speed requirement in 55 mph zones.
Applying for a Driver’s License Preparation is the key word to remember, whether apply- ing for a new driver’s license or renewing one. The best ad- vice is to go by the examiner’s office, pick up a manual and study it well a few days before taking the necessary tests. For new residents, a 60-day period is allowed to apply for a driver’s license and to change vehicle registration. Part- time residents may drive with a home-state license and tag in North Carolina for no longer than six months each year. New residents applying for a driver’s license, and some
88 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 89 Getting connected: Utilities serving Macon Fortunately for new residents, Macon County offers a va- Renters must apply for service by coming into the town riety of state and local offices that can help take the stress office. You will be required to fill out an application, make out of moving to a new area. Offices for applying for a N.C. a $50 deposit and provide a copy of your lease agreement. driver’s license and getting your vehicle registered and Owners should come into the office, fill out an application tagged are conveniently located in Franklin. form and bring a copy of proof that you own the property. There is no fee for new residents with existing connections. Utilities & Services New connections require a tap fee and an availability fee, Whether you currently live in Macon County or you’ve and are charged on a case-by-case basis. just arrived, the following information may be helpful in Many part-time residents leave their water meters in over connecting with utility companies that serve the county. For the winter and pay a minimum fee (for up to 1,000 gallons). additional information, call one of the companies listed be- Some prefer to have the meter pulled when leaving for the low for information on electrical, communications or solid winter and then reconnected upon returning. The fee for re- waste services. connection is $50 inside city limits, $75 outside the city lim- its and $100 for commercial use. In Highlands, water/waste management and electric utili- Electrical Service ties are all handled through the Highlands Town Office, 210 Duke Energy: Customers may call (800) 777-9898 for N. 4th St. A visit to the office between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., service; call (800) 769-3766 to report an outage. For more Monday through Friday, is all that is needed to take care of information, log on to duke-energy.com utility needs. For information, call (828) 526-2118 or (828) Highlands residents are served by the Town of Highlands 526-5266. and Haywood Electric Membership Corporation. Contact Highlands at (828) 526-2118 or HEMC at (800) 951-6088.
Home Telephone Service Frontier Communications provides voice and data tele- communications products and services in Macon County. For more information, call (877) 462-8188 or visit frontier.com. Northland Cable also provides home telephone service in Highlands. For more information, call (828) 526-7675 or visit the office at 479 South St., Highlands.
Water/Waste Services In Franklin, you can apply for water/sewer service at the Town Hall, 95 E. Main St., or call the office at (828) 524- 2516.
90 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 Garbage Collection/Recycling Postal Service In Franklin, garbage collection is provided by J&B Disposal, located at 2076 Highlands Road, (828) 369-2199 Five separate post offices currently serve the different or (828) 369-2727. There is a quarterly fee for the service. communities in Macon County. Each of the post offic- In Highlands, garbage is picked up twice a week in resi- es offers basically the same services and, according to a dential areas. Contact Town Hall at (828) 526-2118 for more spokesman for the post office, “even the rural mail carri- information. ers are a post office on wheels” and may be able to pro- For recycling information and garbage disposal in the vide a needed stamp or envelope. county, contact Macon County landfill (828) 349-2077. The Services to make mailing easier include the sale of landfill is located on Lakeside Drive and convenience cen- such items as boxes, envelopes, postcards and padded en- ters are located throughout the county. velopes. All post offices offer Overnight Express, in ad- dition to first-class or Priority Mail for speedier delivery. Cable Television In order for the postal service’s personnel to better Morris Broadband Cable TV serves customers in specif- serve their communities, anyone with an address change ic service areas of Franklin and Macon County. The cable should notify, in writing, the post office from which you office is located at 247 Sloan Road, Franklin. The office is are moving. Then notify your Macon County post office, open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed from 1 to 2 p.m.), Monday through Friday, or call toll free (888) 855-9036. also in writing, upon arrival, whether you are a new resi- Northland Cable TV serves customers in the Highlands dent or only in Macon County for part of the year. area. For information, call the office at (828) 526-5675 or come by at your convenience. The office is located at 479 South St., Highlands. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Contact Information Days/Hours and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Franklin (828) 524-3219 M – F 8:30am - 5pm 250 Depot Street Sat. 9:00am - Noon Franklin, NC 28734 28744 – PO Zip Code
Highlands (828) 526-2667 M – F 8:30am - 4:30pm 43 Dillard Road Sat. 10:00am - Noon Highlands, NC 28741
Nantahala (828) 321-5301 M – F 8:00am- Noon 24979 US Hwy 19 1:30pm - 4:30pm Topton, NC 28781 Sat. 8:00am - Noon 28703 – Aquone Zip Code
Scaly Mountain (828) 526-5611 M – F 8:30am-noon, 106 Hwy. 106 NE 1:30 - 4:30pm Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 Sat. 8:30 - 11:30am
Otto (828) 524-4584 8491 Georgia Road M – F 8:30am -4:00pm Otto, NC 28763 Sat. 9:00 - 11:00am
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 91 ADVERTISING DIRECTORY
BUSINESS PAGE BUSINESS PAGE A Stitch In Time ...... 90 Duke Energy ...... 21 All Service and Heating & AC ...... 63 Entegra Bank ...... 25 Ambassador Automotive ...... 10 Fahey’s Foreign Auto Repair ...... 39 Appalachian Ace Hardware ...... 31 Farm Bureau Insurance ...... 24 Appalachain Animal Rescue ...... 53 First United Methodist Church ...... 33 Appalachain Pool & Spas ...... 50 Four Seasons Compassion for Life ...... 45 Angel Medical Center ...... 9 Fox Mercantile ...... 19 Bald Head Realty...... 11 Franklin Family Dentistry ...... 59 Bald Head Realty ...... 55 Franklin Glass ...... 25 Bald Head Realty ...... 96 Franklin Insurance Agency ...... 53 Black Bear Paving ...... 77 Franklin Lanes ...... 87 Books Unlimited ...... 58 Franklin Press ...... 94 Bradley S. Tisdale - Attorney ...... 79 Friends of the Library ...... 48 Bryant Grant Funeral Home ...... 81 Gazebo Creekside Cafe ...... 60 C&R Tire & Lube Center ...... 40 Gillette Law Firm ...... 83 Carolina Trans. & Brake Service ...... 48 Glass Shoppe Inc...... 49 Carrion Tree Service ...... 2 Going Places Travel ...... 76 Christine’s Home Décor ...... 44 Golf Club at Mill Creek ...... 95 Classic Properties of Franklin ...... 16 Great Clips ...... 32 Corbin Agency ...... 12 Harris Regional Hospital ...... 13 Cowee Baptist Church ...... 59 Healthworks ...... 15 Creative Interiors ...... 29 Henning & Henning PA ...... 54 Cullasaja Assembly of God ...... 34 Holly Springs Baptist Church ...... 49 Curtis TV ...... 67 Huddle House ...... 62 Captain D’s ...... 52 J.W. Mitchell Farms ...... 71 D&L Body Shop ...... 81 Joe Morgan Custom Cabinetry ...... 41 Deal Farms ...... 57 Kaylor Insurance Agency...... 40 Disasters Doctors ...... 76 Kidzcare Pediatrics ...... 79
92 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 ADVERTISING DIRECTORY
BUSINESS PAGE BUSINESS PAGE Lamplighter-McCoy Real Estate ...... 37 Rotary Club ...... 61 Land Title Insurance Agency...... 71 Ruby City Mineral & Gems ...... 17 Macon Appliance Mart ...... 25 Russell R. Bowling – Attorney ...... 89 Macon County Board of Education ...... 57 Seay’s Farm & Garden ...... 74 Macon County Historical Museum ...... 89 Sellers Real Estate ...... 64 Macon Furniture Mart ...... 35 Signs Express ...... 65 Macon Rental Co...... 19 Silver Threads & Golden Needles ...... 77 Mason’s Ruby & Sapphire Mine ...... 16 Smart Pharmacy ...... 73 McGee Dermatology Clinic ...... 26 Smoky Mountain Bicycles ...... 50 Meineke ...... 70 State Farm Insurance Agency ...... 43 Moore Refunds ...... 85 Stewart’s ...... 14 Mossy Rock ...... 28 Summer House ...... 69 Mr. Bob’s Carpet Outlet ...... 8 Southwestern Community College ...... 27 Mountain Credit Union ...... 33 Swain Collision & Towing ...... 36 Mountain Springs Spa ...... 41 Tanner Factory Outlet ...... 36 N&N Express Mart...... 84 Tastinger’s Floor Covering ...... 38 Nantahala Bank & Trust ...... 38 The Bowery ...... 51 NC Mountain Made ...... 74 Thor Satellite TV ...... 68 Nestfeathers ...... 88 Toccoa Natural Gas ...... 87 New Vision Gymnastics ...... 47 Town of Franklin ...... 7 Noah’s Playground ...... 43 Tugalo Gas Company ...... 83 Old School Knife Works ...... 67 U Save It Pharmacy ...... 47 Parts City Auto ...... 18 Vibe ...... 14 Pine Hill Park ...... 91 Watauga Creek ...... 3 Realty World Desoto Trail ...... 72 Wayah Insurance Agency ...... 37 Remax Elite Realty ...... 4 Western Carolina Auto Glass ...... 85 Ridgecrest Towing & Auto Services ...... 75 Whistle Stop Furniture ...... 23 Road Runner Driving Services ...... 91
2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 93 94 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017 2016-2017 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 95 96 Information Please - Your Guide to Macon County 2016-2017