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About            Us

Yesterday's

Lumber Mill

Built in the 1930's, the mill was founded by Samuel Kress (owner of Kress Five & Dime and the S. H. Kress & Co. building in Asheville). The Kress family had owned over 4,000 acres in what's now called the SmokeRise development. They constructed the timber-frame mill to process the native wood to build their large family lodge up the road in 1940. 

A few decades later, the entire development was bought by Smoky Mountain Mental Health. The mill was used to teach woodworking skills to community members with special needs before turning into a full production mill, making furniture parts for companies such as Stanley, Kincaid, and Thomasville Furniture. The entire dimension mill ran off a steam system, powered by an outside boiler room with a flawlessly constructed soaring chimney. Many years later, after decades of abandonment, the newest owners have kept this chimney as the focal point of the property's outdoor fireplace.

 

Throughout the entire recent renovation process, the owners prioritized preservation of the building's historic significance. They hold a strong desire for their guests to appreciate the same breathtaking qualities that they themselves fell in love with upon first glance. Prepare to discover the vast original features which remain well-intact and tastefully highlighted throughout the entire property. From the gorgeous hardwood floors and over-sized barn doors, to the copper roof vents and cart tracks, and even the old pieces introduced into the new spaces, this historical gem will undeniably captivate you and your guests!

Today's

Event Venue

The Founders

Alexis & Brock

Alexis is an orthopedic physician assistant originally from Hershey, PA. She found her way to the Western NC area in 2012 shortly after graduating from PA school & has called these mountains "home" ever since. In addition to her interest in science/medicine, she also enjoys the art of photography, architecture, and building design/decor.

Brock was born and raised in Cherokee, NC where he started his own grading & excavation business, Warpaint Enterprises. In his spare time he enjoys creating all types of vehicle fabrication projects. From rock bouncers and swamp buggies to rat rods and party buses, he can build it all!

These two met shortly after Alexis' big move down south and over the years their friendship grew into much more. Originally looking for a small home to flip, Brock found this property and took Alexis up to see it just before it went for sale at an auction. After almost skipping out on the auction (to attend a rock bouncer race), Brock ended up with the winning bid for the mill. Since that moment, these two have worked hard to renovate and build a venue

that dreams are made of, while having some fun along the way!

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About Us

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Vitual tour

Virtual Tour

Sneak a Peek

Availability

Dates with "." indicate officially booked dates.

Soft holds & events in the booking stages are left unmarked until the booking process is complete.

Come visit!

Out of respect, privacy and fairness to our couples

we welcome visitors by appointment-only.

612 E. Hampshire Blvd. Whittier, NC 28789

828.507.2599

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