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The 25 western counties in North Carolina were designated a National Heritage Area by Congress in 2003. This honor was bestowed because of the rich natural and cultural heritage of Western North Carolina that shaped the history not only of the state but also of the nation. We have some of the oldest mountains in the world, one of the oldest American cultures–the Cherokee, deeply rooted music and craft traditions, and foodways that blend Native American, African American, and European immigrant practices.

Combined, these five themes comprise a valuable national treasure. It’s up to all of us to protect, nurture, and pass them on to future generations.

Through our grants program, BRNHA has boosted local pride and heritage identity while creating new economic opportunities across the region through 154 different projects, including:

• Giving economically disadvantaged schoolchildren the chance to learn and honor their mountain music through the Junior Appalachian Musicians program.
• Educating Cherokee youth on their ancestral roots to enable them to be ambassadors for their culture
• Empowering craft artisans with the proper tools to flourish as business-savvy entrepreneurs who can support their families
• Boosting tourism in rural towns by showcasing their revitalized music, crafts, Cherokee, agricultural, natural heritage sites, and resources.

The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership, the operating entity for the designation, is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit public charity. You can help us continue our work and strengthen the heritage, culture and economy of this region by making a tax-deductible charitable contribution. Your legacy gift can be made quickly, easily, and safely by clicking on the Donate button above or by mailing a check to:

Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
31 College Place, Suite 120
Asheville, NC 28801

For more information, contact Angie Chandler, Executive Director, at 828-818-5331.

Financial information about the BRNHA and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at (919) 814-5400. The license is not an endorsement by the State.