Established in 1911, Avery County is the youngest North Carolina county. Despite its recent formation, Avery has an intriguing history and rich Appalachian culture. Over the years, photographers have been eager to capture Grandfather Mountain, majestic Linville Falls, church groups, families, mighty steam engines, and many other diverse aspects of mountain culture. James "Lenoir" Franklin from the Linville Falls community photographed the southern portions of the county in the early 1900s. Operating during the same time, Willie R. Trivett lived and photographed in the Beech Mountain area. Drs. Mary and Eustace Sloop, founders of the Crossnore School, also took numerous photographs of Appalachian life. In more recent times, Grandfather Mountain's Hugh Morton has captured endearing images of the people and places of Avery County.

Watched over by the ancient Grandfather Mountain, Avery County never fails to captivate visitors with its wild beauty and spirited people. In this entertaining and fascinating collection of tales, Avery native son Michael C. Hardy presents the twists and turns of trails, the escapades of the Overmountain Men, stories of North Carolinas very own radio stars?the Hayloft Sweethearts?plus delightful memories of the 1930s and ?40s.

Contains Horton Cooper's manuscript of "History of Avery County, North Carolina" published by Biltmore Press in 1964. Included are the title page, preface, contents, twelve chapters, and the appendix. The published version varies distinctively from the manuscript version.

Few natural features possess as much personality as the peaks of Grandfather Mountain, which dominate the skyline between Boone and Linville. The mountain takes its name from its resemblance to the profile of a sleeping old man; it was known to Cherokee hunters as Tanawha, or "fabulous eagle." Later visitors came to see the magnificent views, brave the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge, and observe the native flora. The mountain is billed as North Carolina's top scenic attraction. The advent of photography made Grandfather Mountain the High Country's most photographed celebrity, with images crafted by the mountain's longtime owner and champion, legendary photographer Hugh Morton, as well as mementos of family gatherings and individual visits. Grandfather Mountain showcases the rich natural and recreational history of this North Carolina landmark.