
Founded in 1810 by Colonel Robert Love, a Revolutionary War soldier, Waynesville is named for General "Mad" Anthony Wayne, who was Love’s commander. He must have made quite an impression on Col. Love with his daring military exploits and fiery demeanor. The town of Waynesville is just the opposite. Quiet and unassuming, it is home to many artists, who draw inspiration from the high peaks of the mountains that ripple off in the distance.
Since the middle 1880s, travelers have made their way to this broad valley surrounded on all sides by mountains approaching 6,000 feet. You might recognize one of those – Cold Mountain – made famous by the Civil War-era novel by Charles Frazier. Ironically enough, the last shots of the Civil War east of the Mississippi were fired right here.
As the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was dedicated in 1940, Waynesville touted itself as the Gateway to the Smokies. By then, the building that is now the Mast Store, then known as The Toggery, was serving residents and visitors to town with quality clothing at reasonable prices. We hope you’ll find the same service and an even wider selection of goods today.
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What's in a Land Trust?
Read MoreLand trusts are non-profit organizations that work with landowners and other associations to help save our land heritage, create open spaces, protect wetlands and wildlife habitats, and provide recreational opportunities for everyone. On June 4, all Mast Store locations will host representatives from a community land trust partner. To support the important work that they do, each store will donate 20% of that day’s sales to its partner conservancy.
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It's Wedding Season
Read MoreWeddings are big events bringing together members of two families to celebrate their union into one bigger family. There’s usually a ceremony, probably some drama, good food, maybe a little drink, and stacks of gifts. We’ve pulled together several thoughtful gifts that are perfect for any couple requesting your presence at their nuptials.
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Workin' for Livin'
Read MoreIf you’re a child of the ‘80s, you might remember “Workin’ for a Livin’,” a song by Huey Lewis and the News that paid tribute to the work-a-day folks that keep our lives moving forward. The same sentiment can be applied to the work of land trusts – they are workin’ for OUR livin’.
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Everyone Should Hug a Tree for History, Health, and Happiness
Read MoreToday is Arbor Day, and we’re celebrating the beauty and symbolism trees lend to our world. Take a look at this tree-themed trivia from across our region. We hope the facts will inspire you to hug a tree or, especially, plant one in honor of all that trees do for us and our environment!


As downtowns begin their revitalization journey, one of the first routes they must travel is finding an anchor, usually a retail store, for their Main Street. Waynesville was the first town to come knocking on our door. The building they showed us used to be The Toggery, and it was perfect.
*Photo courtesy of the Haywood County Public Library History Collection.
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