National Register Listings in Yancey County, North Carolina
The North Carolina State Capitol building in Raleigh was built in the Greek Revival style and completed in 1840. It is one of the oldest state capitol buildings in continuous use in the United States.
About Yancey County
Yancey County Timeline
Yancey County, North Carolina has a rich history rooted in agriculture, manufacturing, and natural beauty. The county was named after Bartlett Yancey, a prominent figure in North Carolina politics during the early 19th century. Yancey County was officially established in 1833 and quickly became a hub for the timber industry due to its vast forests and accessibility to major waterways.
In the late 1800s, Yancey County experienced a boom in population and economic growth with the discovery of vast mineral deposits, particularly mica, feldspar, and gemstones. This led to the establishment of numerous mining operations and the growth of small towns like Burnsville, which became the county seat. The county's mining industry thrived for several decades, providing jobs and economic stability to the area.
Yancey County's agricultural history is also notable, particularly in the production of tobacco and Christmas trees. Tobacco farming was a major source of income for many residents well into the 20th century. Additionally, the county's mountainous terrain and cool climate made it an ideal location for cultivating Christmas trees, which became an important industry in the latter half of the 20th century.
Today, Yancey County continues to draw visitors with its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The county's stunning landscapes, including Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, and the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the area, attract hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts from all over. While the mining industry has declined significantly, the county now thrives on a mix of agriculture, tourism, and a growing arts and crafts industry, making it a unique and vibrant community in North Carolina.
In the late 1800s, Yancey County experienced a boom in population and economic growth with the discovery of vast mineral deposits, particularly mica, feldspar, and gemstones. This led to the establishment of numerous mining operations and the growth of small towns like Burnsville, which became the county seat. The county's mining industry thrived for several decades, providing jobs and economic stability to the area.
Yancey County's agricultural history is also notable, particularly in the production of tobacco and Christmas trees. Tobacco farming was a major source of income for many residents well into the 20th century. Additionally, the county's mountainous terrain and cool climate made it an ideal location for cultivating Christmas trees, which became an important industry in the latter half of the 20th century.
Today, Yancey County continues to draw visitors with its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The county's stunning landscapes, including Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, and the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the area, attract hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts from all over. While the mining industry has declined significantly, the county now thrives on a mix of agriculture, tourism, and a growing arts and crafts industry, making it a unique and vibrant community in North Carolina.
Yancey County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Yancey County, North Carolina.
- 1833 - Yancey County is formed from parts of Burke and Buncombe Counties.
- 1834 - The county's first courthouse, made of logs, is built in Burnsville.
- 1861-1865 - Many residents of Yancey County serve in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.
- 1890 - The railroad reaches Burnsville, promoting economic growth in the county.
- 1940s - Yancey County experiences population decline due to outmigration and the decline of the agricultural economy.
- 1968 - Mount Mitchell State Park, which includes the highest peak in the Eastern United States, is established in Yancey County.
- 1980s - The county experiences a resurgence in tourism as more visitors come to explore its natural beauty.
- 1991 - The Yancey County Courthouse, a neoclassical revival-style building, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 2016 - The county celebrates its 180th anniversary with various events and community activities.