New director announced for historic Carson House; interpretive center, genealogy plans outlined

At their Aug. 11 meeting, McDowell County commissioners received an update on the historic Carson House and an introduction to Theresa (last name not specified), who the board and staff described as the new lead for the interpretive center and programming.

Chuck Abernathy introduced Theresa and said the Carson House will undergo a ‘‘major transition’’ focused on an interpretive center and programming. Theresa, who identified herself as an educator with family ties to the Carsons and other local families, described the site’s exhibits, the genealogical research center planned for the Greenlee Library (to be named for Martha Jordan/Greenlee sisters) and a gift shop and eating area under development.

Theresa said the Moore Cabin restoration is complete and that a dedication is planned for Sept. 28 when an Over‑the‑Mountain men’s reenactment group will attend. She said about 400 fourth graders will visit the following day for school tours and Colonial‑craft demonstrations; she told commissioners the interpretive center will be available to students next year.

She described programming ideas for genealogical research, descendants’ societies tied by DNA, corporate sponsorships, candlelight tours, a Carson House Society membership drive and bus/motorcoach group outreach. Commissioners welcomed her selection and thanked the Carson House board for the work to date.

Ending: Commissioners noted the upcoming Moore Cabin dedication on Sept. 28 and asked for follow‑up reports on bookings and school outreach as the new interpretive center opens to programming.