Community gathers for annual Heritage Festival 
By Gabby Hudson
Staff Writer

Murphy turned back the hands of time revealing the rich history of the area as the seventh annual Heritage Walk and Festival was held on Saturday.

GABBY HUDSON/Sentinel Photo The Heritage Walk & Festival offered visitors a small glimpse of life in the pre-Civil War era. The past was portrayed by, front row, Renae McKiven, second row from left, Morgan Smith, Sarah McKiven, Glenda Burgess and Jim Young, back row from left, William McKiven and Patrick Mckiven.

Visitors were transported to the pre Civil War era as a band of Rebel solders roamed the streets and guests visited the the historic Harshaw Chapel and Cemetery, circa 1869.

Two waking tours were offered. The first walking tour included the chapel, Episcopal Church of the Messiah, circa 1869, the courthouse built in 1927 and the First United Methodist Church, circa 1922

The second walking tour included the L&N Depot, circa 1890 and the Pyramid, built in 1930. Driving tours, provided by some of the local churches, included Junaluska birthplace marker, Fort Butler and several local bed and breakfast establishments.

Playing the native American flute, Reverend Dan Hollifield gave guests the gift of native American music.

Murphy Mayor Bill Hughes said that last year's walk had about 3,000 visitors and that this year was bigger and better.

Celebrating three years of providing a glimpse of the county's history, the Cherokee County Historical Museum Board opened its doors to the public and held a ceremony welcoming everyone to the museum.

Speakers for the event included Mayor Bill Hughes, NC State House Representative Roger West, NC State Senator John Snow and Vice Chief, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Larry Blythe.

Guests were also treated to the sound of the past as the antique tractor enthusiasts started their tractors to give a glimpse of what farming was like in the early 1900s. The oldest tractor represented was a 1922 Fordson on steel.

The local chapter of the 4-H held Horse Apple Bingo was a fund raiser. A square area containing 100 blocks was marked off and a member's horse was placed in the sectioned off area. Chances are sold and the horse deposits manure on the spot of the lucky winner.

Visitors also had a chance to view a small part of indian life as The Raven Rock Dancers performed in front of the Nantahala Bank.

Storytellers gathered at the depot to portray what life was like for the early settlers of the area.

Even coordinator Barbara Hughes said that she is super pleased with the festival.

"There was so much for everyone to do," she said. "I think there was something for everyone."

The Heritage Walk & Festival is held every year on the first weekend in September.