MOSES H CONE MEMORIAL PARK

As unlikely as it sounds, blue jeans, farming and fine art largely define this country estate-turned-Parkway recreation area. Moses Cone and his wife Bertha built what was then known as Flat Top Manor at the turn of the 20th century. The son of a German Jewish immigrant who came to America as a peddler, Moses and his brother Ceasar fashioned a textile empire. Their massive manufacturing plants in Greensboro, N.C., made the Cones the leading producers of denim in the world. In the 1890s and early 1900s, Moses and Bertha built this 3600-acre estate as a country retreat and as a way to showcase their new-found wealth. They built nearly 26-miles of carefully designed and manicured carriage roads, created two lakes, and planted extensive apple orchards to show the benefits of using scientific methods in farming. They crowned their grand estate with a 23-room colonial revival mansion, replete with gas light and telephone.

The manor house is both a good starting point and a highlight of any visit. Browse the bookstore and the craft center, with its assortment of contemporary and traditional crafts. Ranger-led walks and talks and craft demonstrations are offered frequently in summer. Be sure to pick up a map of the estate carriage roads and the Parkway. The Figure-Eight trail begins at the manor house and can be walked in just a few minutes.

DON’T MISS: Take a few minutes to sit in the rocking chairs that line the front porch of the manor house. Even if it’s July and 80-degrees at mid-day, take consolation in knowing that it’s 10 to 15 degrees warmer in the foothills and piedmont cities below.

For more information, please call (828) 295-7938.