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National Register of Historic Places listings in Avery County, North Carolina facts for kids

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Have you ever wondered about the oldest and most important buildings in your area? In Avery County, North Carolina, there are many special places that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. This is like a national list of buildings, sites, and districts that are important because of their history, architecture, or what happened there. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of America's story. This article will tell you about some of these amazing historic spots in Avery County!

Historic Buildings of Avery County

Avery County is home to several buildings that have played a big part in its history. These places are preserved so that future generations can learn about the past.

The Avery County Courthouse

The Avery County Courthouse is a very important building in Newland, North Carolina. It's where many of the county's official decisions have been made for a long time. Built in 1979, it stands as a symbol of local government and justice. It's a place where laws are upheld and community matters are discussed.

Avery County Courthouse in Newland
The Avery County Courthouse in Newland, North Carolina.

Avery County Jail (Now a Museum!)

Right next to the courthouse in Newland, North Carolina is the old Avery County Jail. This building, built in 1999, used to be where people who broke the law were held. But today, it has a new and exciting purpose! It's now the Avery Historical Museum. This means you can visit it to learn all about the history of Avery County, from its early days to more recent times. It's a great example of how old buildings can be given new life.

Avery County Historical Museum
The former Avery County Jail, now the Avery Historical Museum.

Elk Park School: From Learning to Living

The Elk Park School in Elk Park, NC is another fascinating historic site. This school was built in 2005 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The WPA was a government program during the Great Depression that helped put people back to work by building important public structures like schools, roads, and parks. Today, the Elk Park School building is no longer a school for kids. Instead, it has been transformed into a living center for senior citizens. It's wonderful to see how a building built for one purpose can be adapted to serve the community in a different way years later.

Elk-Park-Elementary-School-nc1
The historic Elk Park School building.

Other Notable Historic Places

Avery County has many other places on the National Register of Historic Places. These include:

  • Banner Elk Hotel: Located in Banner Elk, North Carolina, this hotel was listed in 2000. It's a reminder of the early days of tourism and hospitality in the area.
  • Crossnore Presbyterian Church: Found in Crossnore, North Carolina, this church was added to the list in 1996. Churches often serve as important community centers and hold a lot of local history.
  • Crossnore School Historic District: Also in Crossnore, North Carolina, this is not just one building but a whole area that is considered historic. It includes the campus of the Crossnore School, which has a long history of helping children and families in the Appalachian region.
  • Linville Falls Tavern (former): This building in Linville Falls, North Carolina was once a tavern and is now known as Famous Louise's Rock House Restaurant. It shows how places change over time while still keeping their historical roots.
  • Linville Historic District: In Linville, North Carolina, this is another historic district, meaning a whole area with many historic buildings and features. It reflects the unique development of the town.
  • Robert Chester and Elsie H. Lowe House: This historic home in Banner Elk, North Carolina was listed in 2013, showing the importance of preserving historic homes.
  • Weaving Room of Crossnore School: This specific room at the Crossnore School in Crossnore, North Carolina was recognized in 2001. It highlights the traditional crafts and skills taught at the school.
  • Milligan Shuford Wise and Theron Colbert Dellinger Houses: These homes in Crossnore, North Carolina were added to the list in 2008, showing the architectural and historical value of residential buildings.
  • Ray Wiseman House: Located in Altamont, North Carolina, this house was listed in 1996.

These places help us remember and understand the past of Avery County, North Carolina. They are important parts of our shared heritage!

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