The Blowing Rock Historical Society (BRHS) and the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM) are utilizing the 119th anniversary of Blowing Rock’s incorporation, March 11th, as the date to announce the Blowing Rock Marker Program.
The Marker Program is a long-term, joint project between BRHS and BRAHM.
The purpose of the program is to identify and recognize buildings and sites, within the community of Blowing Rock, that are significant because they are examples of a particular architectural style; may be of historic importance or simply deserving distinction by their design or a relationship with the Town’s legacy.
The mission statement of the program reads, “The Blowing Rock Marker Program will assist in educating the public about the rich history of Blowing Rock, provide atmosphere to our downtown and add distinction to individual homes, commercial buildings and sites of significance.”
Members of both BRHS and BRAHM formed a joint committee that has worked closely with town officials to establish eligibility guidelines for building recognition and a uniform marker design. Serving on the Committee, chaired by David Harwood, are Ginny Stevens, Web Alexander, Susan Graham, Marcia Quinn, with Barbara Wright and Jerry Burns as consultants.
The marker will be a metal plaque that will be displayed on the structure relating, among other things, the year of initial construction; original owner or builder and key elements of the property’s significance. The committee has already identified over 125 properties in the downtown area alone that are 50 years or older. At the present, three plaques will be awarded annually with the first plaques placed on March 11, 2009. As more buildings and sites are added to the group a walking tour folder with more information on each building will be available for visitors and residents.
Similar programs in other cities such as Charleston, SC and Annapolis, MD were used as models of successful programs by the committee.
These distinctive structures and sites will benefit greatly from such a program that educates tourists and citizens alike to the abundant history of Blowing Rock.