FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SUNDAY, SEPT. 13, 2009

New Mountain Heritage Center honors local crafter

Contact:   Matt Buchanan, Manager
NC Mountain State Fair
(828) 687-1414

Fletcher--Walk in the foyer of the new Virginia C. Boone Mountain Heritage Center at the N.C. Mountain State Fair and you'll find Mrs. Boone surrounded by the braided rugs she's created. And chances are, she'll be in the middle of yet another rug while visiting with fairgoers.
Mrs. Boone was honored during opening ceremonies of the 2009 NC Mountain State Fair when NC Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler dedicated the new building in her name.

"Virginia Boone has been an inspiration to crafters since 1945 when she began braiding rugs in her home and developing techniques that she shared with others," said Troxler. "Over the years we have been honored to have Mrs. Boone participate in the N.C. State Fair as well as the N.C. Mountain State Fair, and she is a living example of how the crafting community shares their talents and welcomes new crafters to continue the traditions."

Boone taught rug braiding classes at the Canton YMCA, and often from her home. She developed techniques to make her rugs reversible, and her husband Ray created a tool to help hold the braids in place, a mechanical assistant of sorts. Demand for her classes grew and she taught at Haywood Community college for 25 years.

"When we started talking about erecting a crafts building at the Western N.C. Ag Center, Mrs. Boone's name kept coming up," said Troxler. "And we recognized that she is a major contributor to the crafts community across North Carolina, and a key figure in the mountains. Her rugs can be found in all 50 states and at least seven foreign countries."

The new 12,000 square foot log-frame building showcases crafts from the Blue Ridge Mountains and houses artisans during the fair. During non-fair times the building will be available for rent to the public for shows, receptions, reunions, etc. Rental information can be obtained by calling Robin Singleton at the WNC Ag Center at 828-687-1414.

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