History of Ashe County, North Carolina

Ashe County, located in the northwest corner of North Carolina, is known for its rugged mountain beauty and rich cultural heritage. Established in 1799, it is named after North Carolina governor Samuel Ashe. The county’s history is shaped by its early settlers, the indigenous Cherokee people, and its role in the American Revolution and Civil War. Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, Ashe County became an agricultural hub, particularly known for its farming, livestock, and apple orchards. Today, it maintains a strong connection to its historical roots while also embracing its scenic beauty and tourism industry.

Origins of Ashe County

Early Inhabitants and European Exploration

Before European settlers arrived, the area that would become Ashe County was inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Cherokee. These indigenous peoples, who lived throughout the Appalachian region, had an intricate relationship with the land and its resources. The Cherokee presence in Ashe County was significant, as they controlled much of the land that is now part of western North Carolina.

The first European settlers in the region arrived in the mid-1700s, primarily from Virginia and Pennsylvania. The natural beauty of the area, with its fertile valleys and abundant forests, was appealing to these early settlers. They began to establish farms and small homesteads, making use of the region’s rivers, such as the New River, which provided transportation and water for agriculture.

Establishment of Ashe County (1799)

In 1799, Ashe County was officially created from parts of Wilkes and Surry Counties. The county was named after Samuel Ashe, a former governor of North Carolina who had played an important role in the state’s governance during and after the Revolutionary War. The establishment of Ashe County marked the formalization of European settlement in the region, and it began to grow as settlers moved into the fertile lands of the New River Valley.

Ashe County’s early economy was largely agricultural, with farming and livestock raising being the dominant activities. The fertile soil and abundant water resources supported a variety of crops, and the county quickly became known for its livestock, including cattle, hogs, and sheep.

Cherokee Removal and Conflict

As settlement expanded into the 19th century, tensions between the settlers and the Cherokee people increased. The Cherokee, whose territory stretched across much of present-day western North Carolina, were forcibly removed from the region in the 1830s as part of the U.S. government’s Indian Removal policies. The forced relocation of the Cherokee, known as the Trail of Tears, affected Ashe County, as many Cherokee were displaced to reservations west of the Mississippi River. Despite this tragic chapter in the county’s history, remnants of Cherokee culture and history still linger in the region.

The Civil War and Reconstruction

Ashe County, like much of North Carolina, was deeply affected by the Civil War. The county was primarily Unionist in sentiment, with many residents opposed to secession. The mountainous terrain of the area made it a haven for deserters and Union sympathizers, and the county was not as affected by the large-scale battles that took place in other parts of the state. However, Ashe County did experience a number of skirmishes and raids, especially in the years leading up to and during the war.

Following the end of the Civil War, Ashe County faced the challenges of Reconstruction. The region’s economy had been heavily agricultural, and the war had disrupted much of that. Many farms were abandoned, and families who had been loyal to the Union faced significant hardship. Nonetheless, over the decades that followed, Ashe County rebuilt its agricultural sector, and it became a center for farming, particularly for crops such as corn, tobacco, and apples.

The Growth of Agriculture and the Apple Industry

By the late 19th century, Ashe County had become a leader in apple cultivation. The area’s high elevation and temperate climate made it ideal for growing apples, and the county’s farmers began to grow large quantities of apples for both local consumption and export. The development of apple orchards brought prosperity to the area, and Ashe County became one of the state’s major apple-producing regions.

Apple farming continued to be a dominant part of Ashe County’s economy throughout the 20th century. The county’s apple industry gave rise to businesses related to cider production, apple packing, and even apple festivals. Today, Ashe County continues to be known for its apple-growing tradition, with annual apple festivals and events that celebrate the county’s agricultural legacy.

Tourism and the Rise of the Arts

In the 20th century, Ashe County began to see a rise in tourism. As the Appalachian region became more accessible by road, visitors were drawn to the area’s breathtaking natural beauty, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and the nearby Grandfather Mountain. Ashe County’s scenic vistas, combined with its growing reputation for arts and crafts, led to a boom in tourism.

The county’s growing arts scene, particularly in painting, pottery, and music, has become a key element of its identity. Local artisans and craftspeople contribute to the county’s cultural richness, with galleries, festivals, and craft fairs showcasing Ashe County’s vibrant arts community.

Key Historical Events

Early Settlement and Development (Late 1700s to Early 1800s)

In the late 18th century, after the formal establishment of Ashe County in 1799, settlers began to establish small communities along the New River and in the fertile valleys of the county. The region’s settlement was driven by the land’s agricultural potential, with farming, hunting, and timber being the primary means of livelihood. Early settlers built gristmills, which helped process the abundant grain crops, and began to form a cohesive community.

In the early 1800s, the construction of roads and the development of town centers, including the county seat of Jefferson, marked the beginning of Ashe County’s more formalized growth.

The Civil War and Unionist Sentiment (1861–1865)

Although North Carolina seceded from the Union in 1861, Ashe County maintained a strong Unionist sentiment. The rugged terrain of the county provided a natural refuge for Confederate deserters, Union sympathizers, and anti-secessionists, who found shelter in the mountains. This created a divided local community during the war years.

While there were no major battles in Ashe County, the region did experience guerrilla warfare and skirmishes between Confederate and Union forces. After the war, the Unionists in the county faced some retribution and hardship, but the region slowly recovered through agricultural development.

The Apple Industry Boom (Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century)

By the late 19th century, apple farming had become a dominant industry in Ashe County. The county’s cool climate and fertile soil proved ideal for apple cultivation, and by the early 20th century, Ashe County was one of North Carolina’s leading apple producers. The development of the railroads allowed the county to ship apples to distant markets, and the industry expanded rapidly. Apple-related businesses, including cider mills and packing houses, were established to process the fruit, contributing to the county’s economy.

The annual Apple Festival, established in 1974, celebrates this rich apple-growing heritage, drawing thousands of visitors to the area each year.

The Rise of Tourism and the Arts (20th Century)

In the 20th century, Ashe County saw a rise in tourism. With the construction of roads like U.S. Highway 221 and the completion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the county became a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those interested in hiking, fishing, and camping. As more visitors arrived to enjoy the stunning natural scenery, many were drawn to the growing arts and crafts scene in the county.

Local artists and musicians began to establish a foothold in the area, contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of Ashe County. Today, Ashe County is known for its lively arts community, with numerous galleries, craft shops, and music festivals celebrating the region’s cultural heritage.

Historical Sites in Ashe County

1. The Ashe County Courthouse

Overview:
The Ashe County Courthouse in Jefferson, built in 1904, is one of the county’s most significant historic buildings. Designed in the classical revival style, the courthouse has been the center of county government for over a century. The courthouse is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture and remains a focal point for the community.

Location:
150 Government Circle, Jefferson, NC.

Ticket Price:
Free to visit.

Parking Information:
Ample parking is available on-site for visitors to the courthouse.

2. The Museum of Ashe County History

Overview:
Located in Jefferson, the Museum of Ashe County History offers a comprehensive look at the county’s history from its early settlement to the present day. Exhibits cover topics such as Native American heritage, early agricultural practices, the Civil War, and the rise of the apple industry. The museum also features rotating exhibits that highlight local arts and crafts.

Location:
301 East Main Street, Jefferson, NC.

Ticket Price:
$5 for adults, $3 for children.

Parking Information:
Street parking is available around the museum.

3. The New River State Park

Overview:
The New River State Park is a natural and historical treasure in Ashe County. This park, located along the New River, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty while learning about its history. The river itself is one of the oldest in the world and was an important transportation route for early settlers.

Location:
358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs, NC.

Ticket Price:
$5 per vehicle.

Parking Information:
Parking is available at the park entrance, with additional parking along the river for visitors using the trails.

4. The Blue Ridge Parkway

Overview:
Though not located exclusively within Ashe County, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the county and offers spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the parkway connects visitors with both nature and history, with numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and cultural sites. Several historic structures, including old cabins and farmsteads, can be found along the parkway.

Location:
Accessible from several points along U.S. Highway 221 and 16.

Ticket Price:
Free to drive, but there may be fees for some activities and parking.

Parking Information:
There are numerous parking areas and pull-offs along the parkway for visitors to enjoy the views and explore nearby trails.

Ashe County Facts

Geography and Climate

Ashe County is located in the Appalachian Mountains of northwestern North Carolina. The county is characterized by rugged terrain, with steep hills and deep valleys, particularly along the New River. The elevation ranges from about 2,500 feet at the New River to over 4,000 feet in the higher mountains. The region’s climate is temperate, with cool summers and cold winters. The area often receives snowfall in the winter, and spring and fall are popular seasons for visitors due to the mild temperatures and stunning foliage.

Key Facts

• Year Founded: 1799
• County Seat: Jefferson
• Population: Approximately 27,000 (2020 Census)
• Population Density: 65 people per square mile
• Largest Cities:
  • West Jefferson
  • Jefferson
• Major Highways:
  • U.S. Highway 221
  • U.S. Highway 16
  • North Carolina Highway 88
• Adjacent Counties:
  • Watauga County (east)
  • Wilkes County (south)
  • Alleghany County (north)
  • Grayson County, Virginia (west)