Watauga County Historical Society

Welcome to the Watauga County Historical Society website! 

The Watauga County Historical Society was organized in 1977 as a means of educating the public about the history of Watauga County and as a vehicle for the preservation of the culture of the area.  Populated and led by members from all sections of the county, the Society's projects center on education and historic preservation.  We are a non-profit organization with 501(c)3 status.  All contributions are tax-deductible.

 OUR BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

The largest initiative of the Society to date is complete!  A “coffee table” book entitled The Architectural History of Watauga County, North Carolina is available for purchase.  The book is derived from several architectural surveys conducted in the past, one of which originated with the Watauga County Historical Society in the early 1980s.  Around 600 photographs and architectural descriptions along with a history essay comprise the volume, which is nearly 400 pages long.

Please visit our "Contact Us" page for ordering information, or click here for a printable book order form. 

If you are in the Watauga County area, books may be purchased at the Jones House in downtown Boone, the University Bookstore at Appalachian State University, and at Edgewood Cottage in Blowing Rock.  

The book is also available on eBay, item #180427229199.

What We Do

The Watauga County Historical Society believes we are running out of time.  Historic sites, structures, artifacts and memories are disappearing every day, resulting in the loss of key elements of our local culture.  Through community service activities, the Society hopes to preserve and foster appreciation of Watauga County history.

• Local history lectures and presentations
  
• Research and publications
  
• Networking with local agencies and committees
• Supporting preservation of historic sites, structures, documents, photographs and artifacts
• Genealogical assistance
• Grant-writing
• Awards

Upcoming Events

November 13, 2009   3:00-5:30pm Watauga County Public Library

Reception in honor of the publication of The Architectural History of Watauga County, North Carolina.   Books will be available for purchase.

November 24, 2009   4:00 pm  Belk Library  Rm 421  ASU Campus

Reception to celebrate the publication of The Architectural History of  Watauga County, North Carolina.  Books will be available for purchase.

December 14, 2009    5:15 pm     Watauga County Public Library 

Join us for our last Watauga County Historical Society meeting of the year.  Dr. Charles Watkins will speak on "Christmas Traditions of the Past."  Light refreshments will be provided.   Copies of The Architectural History of Watauga County, North Carolina will be available for purchase.