Brimming with Appalachian charm and chic retro style, the Meadowlark Motel in Maggie Valley, NC, exudes timeless roadside inn vibes, evoking the freedom of the open highway and the romance of an adventurous road trip. This historic motel has long epitomized the traditions and customs of the Smokies in Western North Carolina, and now they are honoring that legacy even further with the opening of a new museum, the Smoky Mountain Heritage Center.
Guests who stay in the Meadowlark’s classic motel suites and idyllic creekside cabins have always enjoyed perks like storytelling events or live bluegrass music under their outdoor pavilion. Even non-guests drive great distances to be a part of this local tradition. So, it only made sense to engage with and educate people more deeply about Smoky Mountain culture and the things to do here.
Meadowlark Motel owner, Joseph Franklyn McElroy says, “We wanted to add an entirely separate segment of our business –The Meadowlark Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, with Bob Plott as General Manager. We feel strongly that this will further enhance what our resort has to offer, while offering entertaining and educational heritage related programs, activities and events that will not only bring visitors to the region but will perpetuate the great legacy of Smoky Mountain history, music and folkways.”
Joseph and Bob first connected during an episode of the Gateway to the Smokies podcast that Joseph hosts each week. Bob, a local Maggie Valley native, carries Smoky Mountain culture in his blood. He is a third great grandson of George Plott, who first brought the Plott bear hounds to America in the mid-18th century. They both quickly realized that they had a passion for sharing their love and legacy of the Smokies.
Bob says, “As a lifelong native of North Carolina whose family has been in the region more than 200 years, I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this project. I see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something I have wanted to do for decades, but had never found the right partner until now. Joseph and I share a common vision in honoring and preserving Appalachian heritage and culture by educating and entertaining both visitors and locals in offering them memorable entertaining and immersive program and event options. I can’t wait to get started and I thank Joseph for this great opportunity! We will have some big announcements that we will be sharing with you soon.”
One of those big announcements has already been shared. The Plottfest Reunion Weekend is slated for July 9-11 at the Meadowlark Motel. Attendees will get to meet Bob Plott and dive into fascinating educational sessions about the Plott Hound; talk with Plott legends like Eugene Walker, Gary Beatty, and Gary Bowen; enjoy music like old-time Smoky Mountain hunting ballads; and so much more.
Admission to all Meadowlark Smoky Mountain Heritage Center events are free to motel guests, and non-guests will be charged admission. You can book your rooms on the website here, or call 828-926-1717.
To stay up to date with all upcoming engagements, be sure to follow the Meadowlark Smoky Mountain Heritage Center’s Facebook page. You’ll get details about events like the Darren Nicholson Band camp and Concert with special guests on July 17 or the Horace Kephart Reunion hosted by Libby Kephart Hargrave on July 23-25.
Visit the Gateway to the Smokies podcast to learn more about Appalachian culture in Maggie Valley, NC.
