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The Center for Pioneer Life

Preserving the legacy of the Southern Appalachian pioneer families who settled this region and experiencing how they lived. 

Our Mission is to share the lifeways of Southern Appalachian pioneer families through experiential education and community programming that inspires visitors to bring the resiliency and creative spirit of the pioneers into their own lives.

We offer four main types of specialized programming:

  • Field trips for local schools and homeschool groups, as well as other community groups

  • Hands-on workshops in traditional skills

  • Community conversations and guest lectures

  • Special seasonal events, such as our Fall Festival

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Upcoming Event

  • Chamber of Commerce After Hours
    Chamber of Commerce After Hours
    Thu, Sep 28
    Burnsville
    Sep 28, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    Sep 28, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    Join us for a tour of the Center for Pioneer Life, wholesome food from the region, and good conversation.
  • Homebrewing: Making Mead (Honey Wine)
    Homebrewing: Making Mead (Honey Wine)
    Sat, Sep 30
    Burnsville
    Sep 30, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    Sep 30, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    In this half-day course, students will learn all about how to brew their own mead at home, as well as some of the history of mead. After the hands-on workshop, participants will be able to take home supplies they need to keep brewing at home. READ FULL DESCRIPTION BELOW
  • Scandinavian Stars Workshop with Bridget
    Scandinavian Stars Workshop with Bridget
    Sat, Nov 18
    Burnsville
    Nov 18, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    Nov 18, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Burnsville, 134 Joe Young Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA
    Working with simple materials, reeds, and a little glue, you can weave beautiful stars! Excellent holiday gifts and tree toppers.

Open Hours

Reading Room

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 1-4

 

Drop-In Tour

Friday 1-4

Schedule a Tour, Field Trip,
or Special Event

Get Involved 

Volunteer

Volunteers are absolutely essential to making the Center function.  We love and appreciate all our volunteers.  They are a passionate, knowledgeable, and FUN group of folks!  To learn more about volunteer opportunities:

Teach a Workshop

Join our little community of amazing workshop instructors!  We offer a variety of workshops throughout the year.  For more information about teaching at the Center:

The Center for Pioneer Life

134 Joe Young Road

Burnsville, North Carolina 28714

Site Map

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