The History of Ashe County
The lands that now make up Ashe County were first used
during the Paleo-Indian period of 12,000BC to 8000BC. It appears likely
that were temporary camps on the uplands used by hunter-gathers, whose
permanent camps were located in Eastern Tennessee. Woodland period (500
BC to 1000 AD) sites are found as well, suggesting the valley was an
important food-gathering route through the mountains.
Because of Ashe County's remoteness, it is often
referred to as the "Lost Province" and until 1725 there was little
established colonization. It was the westward movement in the colonies
that brought settlers. The Celtic people who traveled here were drawn by
the promise of land and opportunity. Though not of the landed class,
they were educated and had a history of a lifestyle uniquely suited to
the mountains. These were very independent immigrants were beyond the
regulation of colonial governments and could build herds with a minimum
of land. An abundance of wild game and fish, along with crop
cultivation, helped them to survive the harsh winters and thrive.
In 1828. Dr. Elisha Mitchell, for whom Mount Mitchell
was named, visited Ashe County. From his vantage point atop Mt.
Jefferson he exclaimed:
"Nearly the whole county of Ashe lay at our feet, the
merrymanders of the river can be traced as on a map. Some of the
plantation in view also presented a noble appearance, but oh, what an
ocean of mountains!"
Dr. Mitchell's description still has meaning for the
Ashe County of today. The country is organized by its geography of
mountains and winding routes of the New River and its many tributaries.
Even today the country is rural with the modest farm complex from the
late ninetieth or early century being the most numerous property type.
Decentralized communities served these farms with general stores, post
offices, schools and churches. Many examples of each of these buildings
can still be found in the county.
The Museum of Ashe County History, located in the
historic and newly renovated in 1904 courthouse, displays many artifacts
and treasures, providing insight into the county and the people who
settled the area.
Article taken from Ashe County Visitor & Business Guide.
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