For nearly 30 years, I have driven by this lone abandoned farmhouse, amazed at its resilience, always still standing and always with its roofline intact. Maybe it was the contrast with the snow, or the sun reflecting from the roof that caught my eye. I was immediately alarmed. Oh my, we are about to lose it.
I first became familiar with this structure as it is very prominent (Sam Brown Lane) in the hayfield across US221 from the NC Forest Service Training Center near Crossnore in Avery County. The Blue Ridge Parkway had its annual orientation and seasonal training at the “Corpening Center” until the Park Service ran out of money. In addition to the great food and fellowship with the park employees, this building was part of the visual experience and the often “walk to” after dinner.
As I photographed this building, I could strongly sense its soul and almost hear the warm story it has to tell. Avery County reveres its history. I have posted this in the prolifically active Avery history group. In my next post, I will share with you exactly what that story is. Stay tuned!
