Two weeks ago, The Mendenhall Blair House Foundation had the pleasure of visiting the High Point Museum and Historical Park on E. Lexington Ave. As soon as we walked in, we were warmly greeted by Annelisse, who helped guide us through the museum's exhibits and brought us up to speed on all the museums' upcoming activities, which you can find here.
High Point, North Carolina, has a long-standing reputation as a furniture manufacturing hub. Its strategic location and access to resources have made it an ideal place for the industry to thrive. The city hosted its first furniture exposition in 1905, cementing its position as a leader in the field. Today, High Point remains a global center for furniture design and manufacturing, with the High Point Market being the largest furnishings industry trade show. The High Point Museum does and incredible job of preserving the city's heritage and showcases the evolution of the furniture industry.
What an amazing experience we had during their Blacksmith presentation! The Blacksmith's House was an absolute standout of our visit. Stepping into the historic building, complete with its forge and tools, felt like a journey back to a time when talented craftsmen fashioned metal into everyday objects. The sight of sparks flying as they worked were absolutely mesmerizing. Our master blacksmith, Colonel, along with his apprentice Phillip, was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also thrilled to answer all our questions, all while staying completely in character!
We were then led to the historic Haley House, the earliest surviving structure on its original foundation in Guilford County. The intricate details, from the Fleming Bond Brick Pattern to the Beaded Ceiling Beams and the Double Jamb Fireplaces gracing the interior, stand as a true testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of early Piedmont architecture, known as the Quaker Plan. It felt like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into the lives of all its past residents, a truly memorable experience.
Our charming guide, Hunter, was incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about local history. She shared fascinating stories about the people who had lived in these houses and the significance of High Point's role in the furniture industry. She also provided insights into the clothing worn during the time and the various gadgets and knick-knacks used to make life easier. Her energy and knowledge made our visit even more meaningful, and left us eager to share this experience with you.
Whether you're new to High Point and want to delve into its rich history or simply looking for a fun family outing, the High Point Museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
To learn more about High Point Museum and it's upcoming events, you can visit their website here.
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