News and Events

Sunday ice cream, square dances, and cool summer evenings spent on porches in rocking chairs probably sound like scenes from a Southern novel. Well, they are, but those scenes were inspired by the very real heritage of the region, something that Fox Run Preserve in Hendersonville, North Carolina, recaptures in its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. And just a few miles away from the gated community lies a historic example of a way of life that too often seems forgotten.

Historic Johnson Farm, now on the National Register of Historic Places, was a gift to Henderson County Public Schools from brothers Vernon and Leander Johnson. In the early 20th century, the farm functioned as a summer boarding house and tourist retreat, owned and operated by the brothers and their mother Sallie. It now represents a time of tranisitions from an agrarian-based economy to more diversified industries, including tourism. The Johnson family farm incorporated both agriculture and tourism by inviting others to discover the pleasures of the family farm lifestyle in their quaint home, all for about five dollars a week.

Today, the site exudes the same leisurely and charming atmosphere that it did one hundered years ago, and on April 25th, visitors can enjoy the much-anticipated 18th Annual Historic Johnson Farm Festival. All of the proceeds from the even till go toward historic preservation and educational programming at the farm. Visitors can enjoy a day of guided tours, craft demonstrations, wagon wides, storytelling, entertainment, and more.

And if you enjoy the day, you may want to consider taking a tour of Fox Run Preserve. With long range mountain views and the serenity of a forested setting, the Hendersonville homesites there may just inspire you to make Sunday ice cream your new routine.

Please contact our community representative to explore the Western North Carolina lifestyle that Fox Run has to offer.