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Welcome to the new Valdese News website. With the new look, expect a return to some first-person updates on what's going on in our community. In adapting to the times, we'll be including news and Twitter feeds from sources like the News Herald, but we'll try to keep you abreast of the really important news ourselves. You'll see a lot of changes over the coming months as we decide what to include and not to include on the site. Be patient and don't hesitate to offer your suggestions!

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History

1909 - Waldensian Hosiery Mill
Train Depot
Old Truck
1930 - Meytre Mill
First Classroom
1899 - Church Dedication
Baking in the Community Oven
1916 - Playing Bocce
Alba-Waldensian Employees

After crossing the Atlantic on the Netherland ship Zaandam, the original settlers arrived via train on the Salisbury-Asheville line of the Southern Railway on May 29, 1893. Eleven families formed the first group, led by Reverend Charles Albert Tron, a pastor and philanthropist. Rev. Tron did not come to settle, however, but to lead the immigrants and help launch their enterprise.Within a few days, the contract for the purchase of land from the Morganton Land Improvement Company was complete, and with a charter granted by the State of North Carolina, the Valdese Corporation was founded. It provided for a system of life in common, each sharing the burdens, the interest, the duties, and the privileges. The corporation was controlled by a Board of Directors.About ten thousand acres of land were purchased at a cost of $20,000, mortgaged by the Piedmont Bank of Morganton (NC) with 250 bonds of $100 each, representing also the purchase of farm implements and food. The tract extended southward and south-westward of what is now US Highway 70. It was a vast extension of hills and forests for eleven families but the hardy mountaineers from the Italian Alps set immediately to work clearing, digging, plowing, cutting timber, and working a sawmill.The original settlers were soon joined by their fellow countrymen. In June, eighteen more settlers arrived from Utah. On August 23rd, six families of fourteen persons came from Italy aboard the SS La Bretagne and on November 23rd, fifty-two families of 161 joined the original group after crossing the Atlantic on the SS Kaiser Wilhelm II. Others would follow in later years.Initially, things went fairly well, though not without hard work and sacrifice. On June 20, 1893, the first bread was baked in the community oven. On July 1st, the locations for church, Manse, school, and cemetery were chosen. The church was located where it stands now and dedicated in 1899. During the early years, services were held in the house above the railroad station (built in 1903) on the corner of Massel and Faet streets. The school was a wooden frame house and stood where now is the new Sunday School building of the Waldensian Church. On May 30, 1894, the Corporation elected a Legal Board and a Moral Board, the former with certain limitations under the latter to handle the affairs of the colony. One July 16th of that year, it was decided to hold, beside the regular services in French, one service a month in Italian.Difficulties were forthcoming. The land did not prove to be as fertile as first thought, petty jealousies and administrative difficulties arose, helped by lack of knowledge of language (the Waldenses, in their daily conversation, speak patois, a dialect imported from the Waldensian Valleys of Italy, varying slightly from town to town and derived from the old French. They understand and speak French and Italian) and business; the expense of the Corporation constantly exceeded its receipts; and the people living further away (more than five miles from the center of the colony) wished to come closer. To save it from bankruptcy, the Corporation was dissolved at the close of 1894, and C.A. Tron, to save his brethren, paid out of his own pocket a deficit of about $6,000.After the dissolution of the Corporation, Mr. Meir, along with Mr. John Garrou, started in 1895 a hosiery factory in a small, one-room house. In 1896, the year that saw Valdese's first grocery store, they moved to Newton, North Carolina, then to Manning, South Carolina, only to later return to Valdese. On May 8, 1901, they opened the first hosiery mill in Valdese which after a few years of hard labor, was housed in a larger building. It was the Waldensian Hosiery Mill. In 1910, the cotton mill (Valdese Manufacturing Company) was established. In 1908, the flour mill was started by Mr. Frederic Meytre. Destined to become one of Valdese's leading industries, The Waldensian Baking Company was also borne of this era. John P. Rostan and Philip Ghigo, after business ventures in New York, came to Valdese and opened on the corner of Colombo Street and U.S. Highway 70. As the town grew and roads expanded, trade increased and the Waldensian Bakery erected a new building in 1929 to meet increasing demand.In 1910, the Waldensian Clubhouse was constructed, later purchased by Le Phare Des Alpes, a mutual assistance society exclusive to Waldenses. Behind the clubhouse are boccie courts a favorite pastime of the early settlers.The post-WWI period witnessed the best years for Valdese, during which it earned renown as the "fastest growing town in North Carolina." The town was incorporated in 1917. Trade grew, business improved, and mills were established (Martinat Mill - 1919, Pauline - 1924, Pilot Full Fashioned - 1930, Pineburr - 1931, Blackstone - 1936, John Massey and the Francis Louise - 1938, and the Dolly - 1939.)With the growth of industry came the necessary growth of retail. In 1917, the Valdese Cooperative store was organized by a group of Waldenses who pooled their savings. The first store of it's kind in Valdese, it carried a complete stock of the best merchandise in Burke County. In 1923, August Pascal decided to construct a meat market in the Cooperative Store building. He would later move his market and restaurant to Main Street in a building that still stands and houses Mister Clothes. Eventually the Cooperative was forced into bankruptcy in 1938. The old landmark was purchased at auction by J.M. Brinkley and Son for $7,500.Education was always of importance to the Waldenses, and until the 1920s, their facilities lagged behind their needs. Most were one room / one teacher schoolhouses and countywide there were sixty schools to educate an enrollment of 2,993 children. In October of 1923 a new building was constructed for the public school. This school, now known as the Old Rock School, would not only house Valdese students, but those from Drexel and Rutherford College would be bussed in as well. Innovations included hot lunches served at the school and an auditorium that would seat seven hundred. Legend has it that some visitors were heard muttering, "Way to big for the number of children they've got. Must be gonna educate their pigs too!"By 1938, the twenty-two rooms of the Old Rock School could no longer house the number of students attending. so Francis Garrou High School, bearing the motto "Education is the True Foundation of Civil Liberty" was constructed. Named for a local representative to the General Assembly in Raleigh. The new High School would serve until 1974 at which time it was converted into a junior high school and high school students attended the newly constructed East Burke High School in nearby Icard.In the 1930s, traveling to a town even as close as Morganton was time consuming, a journey those seeking entertainment were often forced to make. This was soon remedied with the construction of the Colonial Theater in 1931 and the 1938 joint effort of local mills to build the Valdese Community Center.With the influx of non-Waldenses into Valdese, other churches began to establish themselves. Among these new churches were: Abee's Grove Baptist (1914), First Baptist (1920), First Methodist (1928), Valdese Church of God (1932), Valdese First Christian (1930s), Mt. Calvary Baptist (1938), and East Valdese Baptist (1949.)In 1939, the Northwestern Bank established a branch in Valdese. The same year, the Valdese General Hospital was organized by Drs. Palmer, Lynn, Ford, and Building, using the buildings of the old Rutherford College, three miles east of Valdese.As business grew, so too did civic activism. The Chamber of Commerce was established in 1930, the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Stars in 1932, the Lions Club in 1936, and the Pilot Club in 1939.In December of 1938, the Valdese News was established.War does not discriminate and its impact on Valdese was as devastating as to any other town. A number of young men from Valdese served in World War II, Korea, and Viet Nam both stateside and abroad. Fatalities numbered 160, 11, and 17 in the respective wars.Restaurants like Mr. Pascal's began to appear with the growth of Valdese. In 1945, The Valdese Sandwich Shop (aka "The Rat Hole) was opened by Harlon O'Quin. O'Quin came to Valdese in 1939 and worked at Valdese Weavers. Though he initially detested the little town, Valdese soon grew on him and instead of leaving, he opened his restaurant. A spot popular with mill hands, merchants, high school students, and tourists. In 1970, "The Rat Hole" was sold to Essie Murphy and later, the restaurant was demolished to build a parking lot for Silver Knitting Company.Another restaurant, The Alamogordo (named for the New Mexico testing site of the atomic bomb) was founded by Lester "Fat" Cline. The main dining room's 125 seats were regularly filled with hungry crowds at lunch and dinner, especially after a local ball game. There were three private rooms that served as meeting places for civic clubs or private parties. The restaurant changed with the times, adding car-hops for curb service and live entertainment on Friday Nights. In 1973, the restaurant became "The Alamogordo Cafeteria and Steak House." The restaurant would close the next year, but the memory of that restaurant will remain with former customers forever.With World War II behind, Valdese was eager to assume a more positive and uplifting outlook. In 1957, the Valdese merchants raised $1,200 for Christmas decorations to line Main Street, asking only for the Town to pay the $104.28 cost for the service wire needed. This partnership solidified in 1961 with the Town agreeing to provide $300 each year and the merchants $700 to decorate the street.In 1968, Valdese celebrated its 75th anniversary with the revival of the Old Colony Players. There were two plays produced by the company that year: The first, "The Land Is Good," was a dramatic production that took place on the football field behind the Old Rock School. The show was a colorful cross between Cecil B. DeMille and the Ziegfield Follies which told the story of Valdese through narration, acting, dancing, and even fireworks. The second play was "From This Day Forward", the now-annual outdoor drama that portrayed the story of the Waldenses from their persecutions in Italy through their early years as immigrants in Valdese.Valdese lost its high school when East Burke High School opened in 1974. The Frances Garrou school was converted into a junior high and served until 1992 when the new Heritage Middle School, located on Enon Road, was built.Valdese made its voice heard on the issue of alcohol in 1979. On August 7th, an election was held on whether to allow beer and wine sales and an ABC store within town limits. Sixty-eight percent of voters participated and defeated the proposal.1981 brought to the Valdese community a tragedy that is still discussed and puzzled over today. On December 23rd, Rhonda Hinson was shot in her car as she returned home from a Christmas party. The bullet, fired from a high-powered rifle, went through the trunk of the car into her back. Her body was found in a ditch beside her car, just a half-mile from her home. Police believe that she may have been pulled from the car after the shooting. The case has yet to be solved and was even featured on television's "Unsolved Mysteries." A wreath memorializing the tragedy is often found at the scene just north of the Interstate, exit 112 on Mineral Springs Mountain road.Valdese has had its share of natural disasters such as in 1985 when a large forest fire crossed Mineral Springs Mountain to the south and threatened to jump Interstate 40 and overwhelm Valdese. The blaze was a low-burning fire which was difficult to access and moved quickly, aided by swirling winds. Fortunately, the fire eventually died out before much of Valdese was affected, but many of the homes on top of the mountain were virtually disintegrated.The Old Rock School received a $1 million restoration in 1986 that included renovating the auditorium and making the classrooms suitable to house businesses, the Town's Community Affairs Department, and evening classes for Gardner Webb.Hurricane Hugo swept through several southern states and across Valdese in 1989, bringing torrential rains that caused massive flooding and power outages that would last for over a week for some homes.On May 29, 1993, Valdese held a reenactment of the original settlers' arrival. Though the train was not circa-1893, the "actors" were all clothed in authentic costume In fact, many of the participants were playing the role of an ancestor.Valdese ushered in the year 2000 with the rest of the world on December 31, 1999 with a large fireworks show and patriotic program at the Trail of Faith and on the football field behind the Old Rock School.In response to the growing popularity of swimming in Valdese and a successful swim team, the Valdese Community Center underwent extensive renovations between 1999 and 2000. The swimming pool was modified to Olympic size and added a handicapped entrance. The locker rooms were totally refurbished and a fitness center was added, along with several fitness programs. Also installed was a large inflatable "bubble" that could cover and protect the pool. Looking like an inflated parachute, the structure allowed use during winter months and could be removed for use in the warmer months when tanning was an added bonus.Not content to rest on its laurels regarding monuments to the Waldensian heritage of the town, the Historic Valdese Foundation dedicated its Millennium Clock Tower at the 2001 Waldensian Festival. Funded entirely by donations, the Tower resembles those found in the Waldensian valleys in northern Italy.In 2008, construction of Draughn High School was completed, bringing a high school back to Valdese after local students attended East Burke High School since the mid-70s.Today, Valdese continues to grow without losing sight of its historic past and while maintaining a small-town charm.
News

News

June 14, 2011 The construction along Main Street is high speed fiber optic line being installed--presumably to allow faster internet communications. They seem to be drilling holes every several hundred feet and then running the line under the sidewalk to the next point. Downtown Delights is busy with renovations, but still no word on when they might be opening. Meanwhile, Family Friday Nights, the Myra's Cruise-Ins, and the Farmers Market have all kicked off and are enjoying successful seasons.I'm not sure of the exact details, but I've heard something along the lines of the bakery plant in Valdese was either the most productive or most efficient plant under Bimbo Bakeries' corporate umbrella for two straight, and possibly three straight weeks. Perhaps the improvements will even lead to additional employment opportunities in Valdese.May 18, 2011 The Old Colony Players production of "Red, White, and Tuna" will be held at the Waldensian Winery beginning this Friday. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Visit the Old Colony Players website, for more information. Casting for "From This Day Forward" is primarily complete, but they still need dancers, soldiers, and singers. Contact the director, Andrew Turnbull, at 781-1708 if you are interested.Next weekend, (Memorial Day weekend,) the Waldensian Trail of Faith hosts its annual Founders Festival, with the Civial War re-enactments, demonstrations of early farm life, exhibits, Boy Scout displays, Children's play area, live music, and a 5-K race. The gates open at 1:00 p.m. on Friday and at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday. Click here for more details.April 30, 2011 A bit long between postings. By now, it's old news that the Valdese Sprint Triathlon was postponed due to incliment weather. The new date has been set for June 25th and a 50% credit for 2012 will be offered if you cannot make the new date, though you do have to let them know by May 20th. Click here for the details.There's an upcoming dinner theater show by Old Colony Players. "Red, White, and Tuna" will be held at the Waldensian Winery. Visit the Old Colony Players website, for information.At the end of the month, The Waldensian Trail of Faith hosts its annual Founders Festival, with the Civial War re-enactments, demonstrations of early farm life, exhibits, Boy Scout displays, Children's play area, live music, and a 5-K race. Click here for details on the celebration.Family Friday Nights crank up next week with bluegrass music. The following week, the Farmer's Market opens. May's promising to be a busy month. Let's hope we also get some more predictable weather!April 5, 2011 Somehow I stumbled across an alumni page for the East Burke Class of 1985 that seems to be primarily maintained by Neal Coffey. The site is pretty deep, with a lot of reunion information and photos, links, and even historic information relating to the class--including a bit on the "Slayer Riot." That made me wonder if my class (1987) had done anything similar. After a few searches, it appears that we haven't, of course we are also the class that voted to only have reunions every ten years, so you can see our enthusiasm for staying in touch. There are a lot of general East Burke alumni sites out there but none seem to have very many members.Draughn is a bit new to have much of an alumni website, but even Valdese High School has a facebook site. I have to assume that the social sites like facebook are what have pre-empted websites dedicated to a particular class. You can create your own network through a site like facebook and select exactly who you want to stay in touch with. But visit Neal's site and you can appreciate why a dedicated alumni website can be very useful.March 28, 2011 I'm not sure that I have ever seen an Old Colony Players musical. So, I didn't really know what to expect when we went to see Oliver on Saturday evening. The lead role is played by Robert Seevers who is the son of some friends of ours. Robert and several others were making their stage debuts and did an incredibly good job. The rookies were flanked by veterans like Phil Brendel and Andrew Turnbull who, not surprisingly, steals the show as Fagin. I should also note that this performance included wireless mics for vocal projection and live music, both of which made for a higher quality show.The show itself ran two-and-a-half hours with a fifteen minute intermission. Befitting a musical, there were close to twenty songs, though some were modified repeats. The high number of songs does mean that the story has to move along rather quickly.Ticket prices have crept up a bit, but I think some of that is due to the higher royalty fees that come with musicals. Plus, director Edyth Pruitt had thirty-eight actors to coordinate, nicer sets, .etc... Performances will also take place this weekend. See their website for details.March 9, 2011 Today is the grand opening of the Hospice Thrifts-and-Gifts shop on Main Street. The windows were uncovered last evening and based upoon a quick drive-by, it looks as if there is quite a bit of merchandise in the store. Of course, it will take time for it to iron out the new-store wrinkles, but it looks to be off to a great start.Also, the new tenant at the Mr. Robert's building has announced that it will soon be opening. The restaurant will be called, "Dave's Fisn-N-More" and will obviously be seafood. Along these same lines, Downtown Delights has covered the windows in the old Belk building, so they must have begun preparing the site for their restaurant.Tomorrow, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., the Rock School Arts Foundation will host a reception for its latest show--JoAnn Wainwright and Tommy Stine. This will be the first time the RSAF has sold wine (through Waldensian Heritage Wines) at a reception.February 9, 2011 You know about Downtown Delights moving from Rutherford College to Valdese, but another restaurant is coming as well. Though the town cannot officially make any announcements, it will be going in the former Mr. Roberts building, where Habaneros has vacated. Be watching for a formal announcement in the near future.Speaking of our neighbor to the east. The eighth annual running of the Chase for Cupid's Arrow will take place at Rutherford College Elementary School at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday. It's a 5K race to raise money for school projects. In the past, the money has gone toward a gazebo and playground equipment. Click here for more information.Burke Entrepreneurs & Business Owners (BEBO) will be having its next quarterly networking meeting on Thursday, February 10th from 5:30 - 7:00pm at the NEW Valdese Town Hall. This meeting is open to anyone who currently owns a business, is thinking about starting a business or is a service provider for businesses. Topics include NC's new Capital Access Program and the Burke Business Loan Pool.January 31, 2011 Well there's no secret now about Hospice of Burke County's forthcoming thrift store. It will be located in the former Major Electric building. They took a bit of a chance in locating in Valdese versus Morganton so the community really needs to support this store. This kind of snuck up on us, but there will be a production of "High School Musical" by Hickory's Clayter Kaye Theaterworks in the Old Rock School auditorium on Feburary 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13. Showtimes are at 7:00 p.m. except for Sundays, which are 3:00 p.m.Come hungry to the Souper Bowl for Hospice! For $10, you will receive your choice of soups and salad provided by Myra's Catering of Valdese in a hand-made pottery bowl of your choice. Dozens of local potters have donated bowls of all shapes, sizes and colors. The event will be held Thursday, Feb. 3, from 5-7 PM at the Old Rock School. For more information, contact Mike Warlick at 828/879-1601, ext. 129. Also, this Saturday is "Scrappin' at the Rock" at the Old Rock School. Click here for details on this event.January 10, 2011Since the last post took place before Christmas, it's worth noting that not only did we have a white Christmas (the kind that made for good snowballs) but we've now gotten our second snow of the season. While this one doesn't look to be as significant as December's, it has closed school for today and with it turning to ice this evening, threatens to close it tomorrow as well.As reported in the News Herald, the town will be getting a new restaurant. Technically, it's not a new restaurant as it has been in Rutherford College for a few years. Their new building (where Belk used to be) will be much larger than their current facility so I imagine they will have plenty of room to grow. If you are unfamiliar with the restaurant, here is a link to their Facebook page: Downtown Delights.Hospice of Burke County is exploring the idea of a thrift shop in Valdese and has looked at several Main Street locations. I'm pretty sure they've settled on a site but since I'm not sure if the information is public yet, I'll wait until I have a green light to post anything more...December 21, 2010It's the final week before Christmas and forecasters have begun speculating on the liklihood of a white Christmas. At the present, there actually is a chance of snow, though it looks like if it comes, it will be later on Christmas Day. Still, there is hope.The fountain in Centennial Park fell victim to the cold temperatures and accumulated ice and "lost its top" on Saturday. The upper tier broke off, presumably from freezing. Bryan Duckworth (Diretor of Public Works) said that there is no major damage. When the weather warms, they'll drain the fountain, epoxy the top section that broke, and refill it in the spring.I'm still working on getting a better photo of the clock tower or to replace the clock tower at the top of this site. Hopefully, by 2011, we'll get the basic layout of this site all squared away...Merry Christmas!December 8, 2010The Valdese Christmas Parade rolled through town on Saturday, with Ron LaSalle serving as grand marshal. Ron is the Executive Director of Hospice of Burke County, but might better be known for his battle with Stage 4 esophageal cancer. Several stories have been published in the News Herald and you can see some of his methods of self-treatement in videos he's posted on YouTube. Click here for his YouTube site.The Town of Valdese selected Sergeant Jack Moss as its new Chief of Police. He has been with the Department for sixteen years and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. He also played football for USC.There will be a lighting of the Town's Christmas Tree this Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Jim Hatley will welcome attendees, there will be an invocation, singing by the Valdese Elementary School Chorus, and shop-hopping at the downtown merchants.OCP's production of Gift of the Magi & Tuna Christmas begin tonight.December 1, 2010With Thanksgiving come and gone, we now direct our attention toward the Christmas season. Shops along Main Street are decorated, the lamp posts along Main Street are lit, and the parade takes place this Saturday. When I last spoke with her, Tourism Director Barbara Hefner was looking for a tree to use in the town parking lot. I didn't know where to find a live tree of the size they would want and I imagine an artificial tree might be stolen. If you have any suggestions, you might want to contact her at (828) 879-2129.Today there will be a retirement party for Valdese Police Chief John Suttle at the new Town Hall building on Massel Avenue from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend. Remember that next Thursday (the 7th) through Sunday, Old Colony Players has two productions at the Old Rock School--"The Gift of the Magi" and "Tuna Christmas." Click here for their website and details on the performances.November 22, 2010The Monday before Thanksgiving brings the Public Works Department to Main Street to install the Christmas decorations on the lamp posts. Light-up reindeer have already been set up near the fountain at Centennial Park and several store windows have been decorated for the Christmas season.Today marks the first day of operations in the new Town Hall building. I plan to replace the distorted picture above of the clock tower with one of the Town Hall building when I get a chance. The News Herald reported that the former Town Hall will be rented by Burke REACT until their new facility is completed and then the Town will try to rent it to local businesses.Unless some major news breaks, this will be the only posting for this week. So, Happy Thanksgiving everyone!November 12, 2010Perhaps the biggest local news this week is national news. Sara Lee announced on Tuesday that it would sell its baking division to Grupo Bimbo of Mexico. I can recall when Bimbo was first entering the U.S. in the Texas area and hearing the industry talk about what sort of impact they might have here--they had a virtual monopoly in Mexico. Well, before this announcement, they were the fourth largest baking company in the U.S. and assuming the sale is approved, it will become the nation's largest baking company.What will that mean for our local plant? My guess would be just a name change, though people working at the plant will certainly experience a lot of changes. The Valdese plant was one of Sara Lee's largest facilities and, unlike most, is non-union. Grupo Bimbo announced that it would be investing $1 billion into facilities so it's possible that the Valdese plant might be the beneficiary of some upgrades.For the full press release, click here.November 8, 2010While the leaves haven't yet fallen on the mountains south of the interstate, they look as if they are just going to fade and then drop rather than provide us with a few weeks of brilliant color. On less weather-related news, Myra's has announced that they are now serving breakfast, beginning at 6:00 a.m. I am not sure right now what the menu includes, but I imagine biscuits will be served, along with anything else that can easily be made on a griddle or grill.I don't think this is subject to change, but I've heard that the Methodist Church will not be selling Christmas trees at the east end of town this year. I do not remember when they began the tradition, but it's gone on for many years. There were quite a few trees remaining at the end of last year and perhaps they decided it didn't bring in enough money to commit to all the work involved.October 30, 2010Friday afternoon saw the streets of downtown Valdese overrun with vampires, princesses, and superheroes as the Trick or Treat in the Streets took place from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. Trick or Treaters visited local merchants for candy and then took part in a costume contest in the Town Parking Lot, adjacent to Wachovia Bank.On Saturday, Valdese's Josh Baker had some tricks and treats of his own as he won the 5th Annual Ridge To Bridge Marathon which runs from Jonas Ridge to Brown Mountain Beach Resort on Wilson Creek. Josh not only won the event and set a course record of 2:40:07, but he did it in his first marathon! Other local residents who took part in the race included: Ray Burris (3:52:22), Derek Reinhardt (3:36:30) and Mark and Ginger Stinson of Rutherford College (4:59:37 and 5:20:27, respectively.)October 13, 2010The biggest news of late has been the opening of the Valdese ABC store on the 5th of October. While it opened to little fanfare, there was a steady stream of customers throughout the day. Steve Ohnesorge of WBTV did a short segment on the store for the 6:00 p.m. news that night. The store even had a visit from the board and store manager of the Morganton ABC store.By coincidence, Draughn High School had its second homecoming parade that same day. The parade moved along Main Street, west to east, as all twelve members of the homecoming court waved to the enthusiastic crowd. Draughn will face Bunker Hill in its homecoming matchup Friday night.August 3, 2010The Waldensian Festival is just around the corner--you can tell because it's hot outside. The old comment about "Why couldn't the Waldenses have returned to their valleys in a nice month like October" gains some weight when you consider the humid, ninety degree weather we typically endure for festival day. But despite the heat, it should be a good day to visit downtown Valdese. This year will be the first with beer and wine sales so we'll see how that works out. There is going to be a roped off area for the sales and consumption of alcohol. I just hope they remember to put a port-a-jon nearby.The other new thing you'll notice at the festival is Jacumin park, sort of across the street from Myra's. you can't miss the big iron gate and the murals. I don't know if any activities are planned in the park during the festival, but Jim Jacumin usually sold ice cream on that spot when it was a grassy hill so I imagine he'll do that again this year.The ABc store has a tentative opening date of October 1. As always, it depends on things happening when they should, but it's a conservative time frame and is likely to be met. On that note, Maxway, the new store in the old Galaxy spot, has seen a steady stream of cars, maybe this end of town will experience a bit of rejuvenation.May 4, 2010The biggest news in Valdese at this time is not the election or the start of the Friday night cruise-ins at Myra's, but of the possible end of WSVM. While, as i understand it, it could be sold, the date I have heard for its going off the air is the end of May. The station first broadcast on October 6, 1961 so it would have been fifty years old next year. Everyone in Valdese has likely listened to the station at some point. Whether it was for the music, an East Burke game, or the Trading Post, we all have a memory. I can remember as a very young child, going to the station with my class at Christmas. We were each given a bottle of Sun Drop and told if we listened to it, we could hear Santa's bells. Of course we realized that it was just the fizz, but the memory still remains with me. maybe there is a way to save the station, but if not, we'll have to say goodbye to a historic part of Valdese.April 6, 2010This is perobably the most colorful time of the year in Valdese, though the gold, green, and red of autumn is typically spectacular. But with an abundance of Bradford Pears, Dogwoods, and Cherry trees, not to mention the flowers and shrubs, that are in bloom. And, lest we forget, everyone's car turns yellow for a couple months. I expect the Valdese Public Works Department and store owners will soon have Main Street decked out in a full spectrum of Spring colors.East is behind us and while I was unable to attend any, i feel certain that the egg hunts like the one held at the American Legion Post were a big success.Now we turn our attention to the Friday night cruise-ins at Myra's (and the Rock Drug Store and First Citizens Bank) and the Family Friday Night concerts in the near future.I've heard rumors of several new businesses coming to town but nothing specific beyond the pub and already been reported as going into the former Brown's Carpet Store. Jerry Baker is said to be adding a walk-in refrigerated cooler at Jack B Quick. I have also heard that the town would like to have the ABC store in place by July 4th.March 3, 2010It's now the calm after the storm as the vote on alcohol sales was decided last evening and passed by a 2-1 margin. I'm not sure what happened differently in this eletion as last time the vote was much closer (and it was voted down.) Anyway, aside from some sign theft, both sides were largely respectful of the others' opinions. Now the rumors will begin to fly over what new businesses people have heard are headed to town.Larry Earp once told me he had no plans to serve alcohol at Little Italy if it ever passed. That was a while back, though and his opinion could very well have changed by now. There has been a table and chairs in the former Brown's Carpet building for several months set up like a restaurant table. Maybe someone was holding out to see how the election went and has plans to open something in there? There is also the plan for a restaurant in the old Alba building Clark Erwin is restoring.We'll see what happens. I really don't expect much activity for some time given that the economy is still sluggish. February 25, 2010A brief flirtation with Spring-like weather this past weekend has ended with a reminder that we are still very much in the midst of Winter. A very light snow dusted cars and grass last night and today we awoke to cool temperatures and a biting wind.February 5, 2010As we continue the cycle of wintery weather, this time with snow and sleet that's turned to slush and then just a rain, we can look forward to a nice, warm fire. By that I mean of course the annual Waldensian celebration of the Edict of Emancipation. While not as big of a draw as the Waldensian Festival (OK, nowhere near the draw) the event marks an important moment in Waldensian History--when King Carlo Alberto of Sardinia, granted political and ciivil rights to the Waldenses.This year's celebration is a two-day event with the bonfire at the winery on February 20th at 7:00 p.m.and the church service at 10:30 on February 21st at 10:30 a.m. at the Waldensian Presbyterian Church, followed by a meal in Pioneer Hall. The Waldensian Museum will be open Sunday the 21st from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m.January 22, 2010It's a rather quiet time in Valdese. The temperatures have warmed back up to closer to normal, most of the snow is gone, and there are few events to mention taking place in the next couple months.January 7, 2010With snow still blanketing the northern side of our surrounding mountains (nearly three weeks after it fell) and below normal temperatures, we can't help but wonder just what part of global warming has caused this winter. Anyone who happened to read the 2010 Farmer's Almanac would have been forewarned, however and it's a reminder that Mother Nature's still in control. Oh, and they're calling for snow tonight...The cold weather has once again frozen the fountain in Centennial Park. It has a nice greenish tint. Whether that's the result of a practical joker or something already in the water, I don't know. Hopefully, I can get a picture of it and post it here soon.

ARCHIVED HEADLINES

June 30, 2011

A belated (June 22) happy birthday to Chuck Moseley. He turned 75 last week and is just as busy as ever.

Remember that Valdese has its fireworks display tomorrow evening. Seems like they usually start around 9:30. Of course, there is plenty to do before the fireworks, including the Cruise-In, the Family Friday Nights music, and the festivities at the Trail of Faith.

A couple of well-known Town employees have hung up their hats. Larry Johnson, the Planning Director has retired, though he will be available part-time. Dwayne "Mud" Branch has also retired but you'll probably see him mowing lawns around the area for the next several months. Not sure if either of them have any plans to reenter the workforce somewhere else. Next to retire, that I know about, is Tim Rhoney from the Recreation Department. I believe he officially retires in September.

Events

Community Events

February 19 & 20, 2011

Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

On February 17th, Waldenses around the world celebrate the 1848 signing of the Edict of Emancipation, by Carlo Alberto, which granted certain civil and political liberties to the Waldenses. Locally, this occassion will be recognized on the 19th with a dinner and bonfire at the Waldensian Heritage Wines winery. The dinner begins at 7:00

p.m. and the bonfire at 8:00 p.m.

Attendees are asked to bring a

covered dish to the dinner.

On the 20th, the Presbyterian

church will have a special service open to the beginning at 10:55 a.m., followed

by a luncheon in Pioneer Hall.

Valdese Events

Valdese

Events

Events that take place around the same time each year in Valdese.

Click and drag or double-click the corner of the page to turn.

Waldensian Bonfire Pic
Old Album

February 17th -- Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

The Waldensian Presbyterian Church hosts a dinner, special program, and bonfire at the Waldensian Heritage Wines winery in celebration of the 1848 signing of the edict of emancipation, by Carlo Alberto, which granted certain civil and political liberties to the Waldenses.

Waldensian Bonfire

Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

On February 17th, the Waldensian Presbyterian Church hosts a dinner, special program, and bonfire at the Waldensian Heritage Wines winery in celebration of the 1848 signing of the edict of emancipation, by Carlo Alberto, which granted certain civil and political liberties to the Waldenses.

Cruise-Ins Pic donnie_and_connie_allison

Cruise-Ins

Myra's Cruise-Ins

From April, through October, downtown Valdese comes alive with the classic car cruise-ins hosted by Myra's Restaurant. The gathering attracts up to 100 cars on some nights and several hundred people to admire the cars, catch up with old friends, and just enjoy downtown.

For many of the months, the event is held in conjunction with the Family Friday Night concerts, just up the street from Myra's.

Independence Day Pic fireworks

February 17th -- Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

Independence Day

Independence Day Celebration

On July 4th, the Trail of Faith hosts a daylong celebration that includes food, tours, guest speakers, recognition of the military, and a kid's play area.

That evening, around 9:30 p.m., the town puts on a fireworks show at the football field behind the Old Rock School. The show is visible from all parts of downtown so it's easy to find a good viewing spot.

Waldensian Festival Pics

February 17th -- Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

Waldensian Festival

The Waldensian Festival

Held on the second Saturday of each August, the Waldensian Festival celebrates the "Glorious Return" in 1689, when the Waldenses who had been exiled to Switzerland were able to reclaim their valleys in northern Italy.

The festival draws thousands of visitors, features live music, food, an Art Show, a bocce tournament, a 5K and 10K footrace, and about 150 vendors.

Halloween Treats in the Streets Pic

February 17th -- Waldensian Celebration of the Edict of Emancipation

Halloween Treats in the Streets

Halloween Treats in the Streets

On Halloween (or the closest business day,) from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., Main Street Valdese will be swarmed with ghosts, vampires, dragons, and princesses visiting local merchants to Trick or Treat for candy. Immediately following the Trick or Treating will be a costume contest in the town parking lot adjacent to Wachovia Bank. Prizes will be awarded to the best costumes in age groups 1-4, 5-8, and 9-12.

Draughn Homecoming Parade Pic draughn_homecoming

Draughn Homecoming Parade

Draughn Homecoming Parade

In October, Draughn High School holds its homecoming parade along Main Street in Valdese. The event began in 2009 and has become an annual tradition. While smaller in scale than the Christmas parade, it is the kickoff event for homecoming week and introduces the homecoming court to parade-goers.

Trail of Lights Pic trail

Trail of Lights

The Trail of Lights

From the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, the Trail of Faith sparkles under the soft glow of 100,000 Christmas lights. Many of the lights are arranged to depict symbols of Waldensian heritage.

A lighting ceremony is held on opening night that includes...

Christmas Parade Pic

Christmas Parade

Valdese Christmas Parade

On the first Saturday of December, kids of all ages line the streets for the annual Valdese Christmas Parade. The event features the county's high school marching bands, floats sponsored by local businesses and organizations, and essentially anyone who wants to take part. Of course, Santa is always present at the end of the parade, ushering in the Christmas season for Valdese.

Attractions

Museum

The Waldensian Museum on Rodoret Street is a privately-funded facility with historic items preserved from the early days of Valdese. It celebrates and honors the rich heritage and culture of the Waldensian settlers. The museum includes several rooms and thousands of items that date back to the earliest immigrants, including: clothing, tools, books, pictures, and household items.

A 2008 expansion added more display space, a gift shop, an orientation room, offices and a geneology room.

For information, contact Gretchen Lane-Costner at (828) 874-2531 or e-mail museum_waldensianpresbyterian.org .

http://www.waldensianheritagemuseum.org/

RockSchool

Operated by the Town's Community Affairs Department, the Old Rock School contains a 473-seat auditorium and meeting rooms used for performances, events, and special occasions by citizens, groups, and businesses. Several local businesses rent office space in the building as well as a local model railroad club. Gardner Webb University uses the facility for evening classes.

Old Colony Players, which produces the outdoor drama, "From This Day Forward," stages several plays in the auditorium each year and there are frequent bluegrass and gospel concerts.

For details, contact Barbara Hefner at (828) 879-2126 or e-mail bhefner_ci.valdese.nc.us .

Winery

The winery started in 1989, though Waldenses had made wine in their homes since their arrival in 1893. The barn, which once housed milk cows now produces a quite different beverage.

Today, Waldensian Heritage Wines preserves the tradition of fine wine making in a style much like that of their forefathers. They blend time-tested manual methods with a touch of modern technology to produce wines that they feel best preserve "the true taste of the grape."

Guided tours are available Thursday through Sunday (excluding holidays) from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. To make a reservation for a large group, call: (828) 879-3202.

www.waldensianheritagewines.com

ArtsCenter

Opened in 2002, the Valdese Heritage Arts Center is a showcase of area craftspeople and their talents. On display and for sale are crafts such as: pine needle baskets, woodworking, pottery, watercolors, jewelry and stained glass.

Occasionally, special classes and presentations are held at the Center or across Main Street, in Jacumin Park.

The Heritage Arts Center is located at 146 Main Street West. For information on hours or special events, click here . Call (828) 874-1849 for more information.

Picture To Come

TrailofFaith

The Trail of Faith is a fifteen station outdoor exhibit retracing the history of the Waldenses and the settlers who would eventually found the town of Valdese in 1893.

Each station is a recreation of a place or event in Waldensian history with a descriptive narrative posted nearby. There is also a visitor's center where tickets are sold and tour orientations are provided. Special events are hosted at the Trail of Faith throughout the year, including a Christmas lights show and a 5K footrace to raise money for wounded soldiers. Visit their website for details on these and other events.