In its beginning, Asheville was located at the crossroads of trade routes and deer paths…and it was called Morristown. In 1797, it was renamed Asheville by North Carolina Governor Samuel Ashe. At one time, this city located in the broad Swannanoa Valley was the third largest city in the state; right behind Raleigh and Wilmington.
In the late 1800s and early 20th century, Asheville became known as a health resort. Folks flocked to the mountains to enjoy the fresh air and the fine accommodations of the Grove Park Inn and the Battery Park Hotel and to engage in outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and picnicking.
You might not know, but the Asheville area is the root source of a word commonly used to denote "nonsense." In 1820, Representative Felix Walker was addressing the House of Representatives on the topic of Missouri statehood. His intent was to engage in a long address, not necessarily related to the issue at hand, with the goal of being quoted in the newspaper, so he could be noted as performing his job. His long, dull, and drawn out speech was referred to as…just a lot of "bunkum," in reference to his home county of Buncombe.
Wandering down Biltmore Avenue from Pack Square, one of the oldest parts of the city, you’ll happen upon the Mast General Store. Located in the old Fain’s Department Store building, the mercantile is filled with most everything you need for life…and that’s no bunk!
-
Fall Foliage Primer - November 7. 2018
Read More
It's the seventh installment of the 2018 Fall Foliage Primer and the final report for the season. Many locations are reaching their peak colors now - like Greenville, Asheville, and Hendersonville - and Knoxville is still reaching for its peak. You'll find many events to enjoy in all areas and who knows, you might even start thinking about another kind of tree that stays green all year. -
It's Time to Share the Warmth with Mast Store and Columbia During the Month of November
Read More
You don’t have to be a fan of Game of Thrones to know that winter is coming. It’s in the air, fogging up the window panes and biting at noses and hands. And that means coats and warm accessories are needed in the community. Mast Store is ready to Share the Warmth in all its communities by holding a coat collection now through November 30. -
Fall Foliage Primer - October 31, 2018
Read More
It's Halloween, and we bet you'll see some colorful characters throughout the day. It's also Week 6 of the Fall Foliage Primer. There is still an amazing amount of color throughout all reporting areas. Asheville, Hendersonville, and Knoxville are still reaching toward their peak colors in this unusual fall. The Boone and Valle Crucis area are beginning to lose leaves, but there are still surprises around many corners. And, you'll still find plenty of fun events to enjoy everywhere. Check it out! -
These Old Boards Have Seen A Lot
Read More
A few weeks ago, we celebrated the 135th anniversary of a legend – the Original Mast Store in Valle Crucis. We played old-timey games; we sampled apple butter; we listened to some good music. But have you ever wondered what the building itself thinks of all the people who travel out Broadstone Road and Highway 194 for a visit. Well, we did too, so we asked.
It took a while to find just the right building in Asheville. When we identified 15 Biltmore Avenue as our new home, so many people shared their fond memories of Fain's Department Store. It was a thrift store featuring clothing for men, women, and children, along with linens, housewares, and gifts. Today, as you walk in the front door, you'll see a memory prompt for many.
Read more
