Maces Spring, Virginia facts for kids

Maces Spring is a small community in Scott County, Virginia. It's located along State Route 614 in an area called Poor Valley. Maces Spring is mostly a quiet place with a few houses. It doesn't have any stores anymore. What makes Maces Spring special is its strong connection to the famous country music group, the Carter Family.

Maces Spring: Home of the Carter Family

Maces Spring is known as the birthplace of Alvin Pleasant Delaney Carter, often called Doc or A.P. He was a key member of the Carter Family. In 1914, A.P. brought his wife, Sara Dougherty, to live in Maces Spring. They are both buried in the graveyard behind the Mount Vernon Methodist Church.

The Carter Family: Pioneers of Country Music

The Carter Family was formed in 1927. It included A.P. Carter, Sara Carter, and A.P.'s sister-in-law, Maybelle Carter. They became very famous for their unique sound. They are often called the "First Family of Country Music." Their songs helped shape what country music is today. They sang about everyday life, family, and faith.

The Carter Fold: A Place for Music

Today, State Route 614 is named the A.P. Carter Highway. A.P. and Sara's children, Joe and Jeanette, opened a special music hall. It's called The Carter Fold. This hall is on the side of Clinch Mountain. The Carter Fold keeps the family's musical legacy alive. People still gather there to enjoy traditional music.

Historic Places in Maces Spring

Several places in Maces Spring are important to the Carter Family's story. These places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are recognized for their historical importance. They are part of a special group called the Carter Family Thematic Resource.

Preserving the Carter Family Legacy

The historic places include:

• The A. P. and Sara Carter House
• The A. P. Carter Homeplace
• The A. P. Carter Store
• The Maybelle and Ezra Carter House
• The Mt. Vernon Methodist Church

These sites help visitors understand the lives of the Carter Family. They show where the family lived, worked, and found inspiration for their music. Visiting these places is like stepping back in time. It helps people connect with the roots of country music.

Maces Spring and the Tri-Cities Region

Maces Spring is a small part of a larger area. This area is known as the Tri-Cities region. The Tri-Cities region includes cities like Kingsport and Bristol. Even though Maces Spring is small, its connection to the Carter Family makes it a well-known spot in the region.