photograph by Jerry Wolford & Scott Muthersbaugh
During their historic 1964 debut on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Beatles instantly made Ludwig the world’s most recognizable drum brand, inspiring a young musician in Charlotte to form his own fab four. At a factory in Monroe, Ludwig is still making those same drums.
STORY BY BRAD CAMPBELL
The Scottish Heritage Center in Laurinburg has many noteworthy artifacts, including a bagpipe that is the only known musical instrument produced by a Scottish immigrant in North Carolina. photograph by Matt Ray Photography
North Carolinians of Scottish descent have celebrated their heritage at Grandfather Mountain since 1956.
STORY BY KATIE KANE
illustration by Kyle T. Webster
Our state dance will get your feet moving — just add beach music.
STORY BY KEITH FLYNN
Whether performed by Carolina Ballet in Raleigh or Charlotte Ballet (pictured), The Nutcracker is a magical Christmas tradition. photograph by Emily Chaplin
Here’s to the talented North Carolinians whose fancy footwork propels them to great heights, nimble speeds, and feats of creativity.
STORY BY KATIE SAINTSING
Goat Lady hosts monthly dinners featuring its cheeses — like Providence (left) — along with locally raised meats and produce. photograph by Stacey Van Berkel
North Carolina’s godmother of goat cheese left behind a lasting Piedmont landmark.
STORY BY BRYAN MIMS
At Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, lines of tundra swans push through the sky like long-distance swimmers, their flanks flashing silver in the sun. photograph by Chris Hannant
A coffee shop in Raleigh is a world away from the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in eastern North Carolina. But a writer discovers that they have something in common: love.
STORY BY ELEANOR SPICER RICE
Trey Braswell, president of his fourth-generation family business, grew up around chickens. Now, they grow up around him. Photography courtesy of BRASWELL FAMILY FARMS
Behind the second-largest franchisee of Eggland’s Best is a fourth-generation family business in Nash County known for its generosity and carefully tended flock.
STORY BY REBECCA WOLTZ
John Reed created the first underground shaft at Reed Gold Mine in 1831. Portions of the mine are restored and open to the public. photograph by Travis Dove
Two centuries ago, a young boy’s accidental discovery in Cabarrus County led to the first gold rush in the United States. For 50 years, North Carolina led the nation in gold production and gave a young country a new kind of wealth.
STORY BY CARON MYERS
Our spring woods would be a lot quieter today if not for a North Carolina conservationist who was devoted to wild turkeys. photograph by Ralph Hensley
Our spring woods would be a lot quieter today if not for a North Carolina conservationist who was devoted to wild turkeys.
STORY BY T. EDWARD NICKENS
This dish is perfect for your holiday table — even if you don’t actually use French hens. photograph by Matt Hulsman
Apples, creamy feta, and rosemary: three flavors that were made for each other. Together, they elevate the everyday baked chicken supper.
STORY BY LYNN WELLS
illustration by Patrick Faricy
The Ramblin’ Man heads into Labor Day weekend with a twinkle in his eye and a song on his lips: For many North Carolinians, dove hunting season kicks off the most wonderful time of the year.
STORY BY T. EDWARD NICKENS
During a stay at The Partridge Nest, a classic novel is the perfect fireside companion. photograph by Tim Robison
When Thomas Wolfe finally came home again, he found his way to Partridge Hill in Brevard, where his literary friend Hamilton Basso lived and wrote nine novels. Now, you can pay a visit, too.
STORY BY LOUISE JARVIS FLYNN
Illustrations by Ed Fotheringham
When it comes to spreading holiday cheer, the residents of this Chatham County town start early.
Our editor in chief shares a few treasured memories from her childhood home, a Christmas Eve night being one of the very first.
We took some, ahem, creative liberties when we combed through Our State’s archives to find a few favorite stories that carry the tune of a Christmas classic.
From decades-old family recipes to a centuries-old Carolina cookie, we’re filling our holiday tables with dishes that have stood the test of time.
