Our Stories
Our Stories
From the parking lot to the porch, stories are part of the culture of Western North Carolina. Whether you were born here, or you got here as soon as you could, stories flow from this place like rivers down its mountains and bike wheels down singletrack.
We hope that the stories shared here and by our community members inspire you to tell your own story and be a proud part of this amazing community of people, places, and companies that have been made by the mountains of WNC.
Made By Mountains Stories
Leah Wong Ashburn
The history of creative makers runs so deep in our area that I think Highland Brewing was born by these inspiring surroundings.
David Billstrom
Bicycle brands like to be based in beautiful locations when they can, but most can’t.
Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle
There is a sensibility to this area that for me, is rooted in having value for this place.
Earl B. Hunter, Jr.
So many Black folks have died without experiencing this beauty, this nature, this calm. This is our public land, too.
Jennifer Pharr Davis
Hiking changed my values. It broke a lot of my preconceived notions about who I was, and what my options were in the world.
Tom Dempsey
Enjoying these places that are right outside our door is part of our company DNA.
