During November, History Walks on Main Street include stories about old-time Thanksgiving and Christmas events. Walks will be offered on Saturdays, November 3 and 10 at 10 a.m., and on Tuesdays, November 13 and 20 at 5:30 p.m. Participants will also learn about the history of the town and its interesting architectural designs — including stops at the Historic Courthouse, Skyland Hotel, City Hall, and other historic shops and structures along Main Street. Cost is $10 per person 10 years and older. Children under 10 are free with a paid adult. Space is limited. Reservations are suggested. Gather in the Police Dept. lobby of Hendersonville City Hall to begin the walk. City Hall is at the corner of Fifth Avenue East and King Street. Free parking is available at the Police Dept. entrance.
The cool-weather walks will be about 90 minutes and will be held rain or shine. Stroll with tour guide Mary Jo Padgett to answer such questions as — who donated the land where the new town would be built, what is the age of the oldest block of buildings, what was on the third floor (and in the basement) of the old City Hall, who was the town named for, bordellos, trolley lines, past eccentric holiday events, and more.
Groups of eight or more are invited to make arrangements for a convenient private tour anytime for Guided Walks on Main Street or in Oakdale Cemetery. A guided walk in Historic Oakdale Cemetery is scheduled on Sunday, November 4, at 2:15 p.m.
“Join me to celebrate and share the interesting history and architecture of downtown Hendersonville,” Padgett said. “From its location in “the wilderness” to a bustling town with Opera House, jockey lot, and turkey drop, you’ll be surprised at what has happened. I believe that knowing our history enriches our lives.”
Padgett served on Hendersonville City Council for eight years, is a journalist and public relations consultant, co-founder and former executive director of ECO, was associate editor at The Mother Earth News magazine, and conducts programs and guided tours in Paris, France, on the American Revolution. Her parents spent their honeymoon in the Skyland Hotel on Main Street. She grew up on a farm in Rutherford County, and has lived in a 100-year-old house in downtown Hendersonville for 37 years.
To make reservations or for more information, phone Padgett at 828-545-3179 or email maryjo@maryjopadgett.com. Visit www.maryjopadgett.com and click on Guided Walks for a complete schedule.
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