FORT DEFIANCE

1792 Fort Defiance Dr, Lenoir, NC 28645

Fort Defiance, near Lenoir, is a historic home built by a Revolutionary War hero in 1792 that has been restored to its 18th and 19th century splendor. The house features over 300 pieces of original furnishings and historic artifacts. The five-acre property includes fine beech and hybrid chestnut trees, a 200-year old boxwood garden, and a family cemetery. Visitors can take guided tours and have a picnic on the grounds.

Hours of Operation:
April–Oct: Thurs–Sat, 10-5 and Sun 1–5
Nov–March: Sat–Sun, 12–4

CALDWELL HERITAGE MUSEUM
FURNITURE INDUSTRY HISTORY

112 Vaiden St SW, Lenoir, NC 28645

Housed in a historic building of the former Davenport College, a school for young women, learn how the development of a locally-owned rail line and the abundant natural resources of water and timber set the stage for the birth of the furniture manufacturing industry. From 1889, when T.H. Broyhill formed the Lenoir Furniture Company, until the twenty-first century, the furniture industry in Lenoir produced fine hand-crafted furniture that graced homes in over 30 different countries.

TUCKER’S GALLERY SCULPTURE WALK TOUR

Main Street Northwest, Lenoir, NC 28645

Visit the 20 sculptures located in Downtown Lenoir. If you want to see more, you can see the Caldwell Arts Council’s signature permanent sculpture collection of over 80+ sculptures on display throughout Caldwell County. Pick up a sculpture map at the Caldwell Arts Council or Chamber of Commerce.

HOG WALLER MARKET MUSIC HISTORY

Main Street Northwest, Lenoir, NC 28645

Until the 1950s, Hog Waller was a hub for social activity and entertainment. Carl Story, the Father of Bluegrass Gospel; Clyde “Pop” Ferguson, Smithsonian Institution Honoree (shown performing at Sister Futs Cafe in Lenoir); and Arthel “Doc” Watson, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, began their careers as performers in and around Hog Waller.

WILSON CREEK WATERFALL HIKES

7805 Brown Mountain Beach Rd, Collettsville, NC 28611

These favorite waterfall hikes in the Wilson Creek Natural Area are accessible year round! The area is also known for pristine fishing waters and kayaking. Find detailed trail, fishing, water sports information at the Wilson Creek Visitor Center. o Harper Creek Falls: 1.9 miles o Waterfall on Thorpes Creek: .18 miles o Hunt-Fish Falls: .7 miles o Falls on Cragg Prong: 3.1 miles