In the
1940s Highway 64 (today Old Hendersonville Hwy) was the main route into Brevard
from the east.  The road was used by visitors traveling into town, locals
traveling to work at the Ecusta Paper Mill and anyone coming from or going to
Hendersonville or Asheville. 

In front of the Pisgah Tavern, February 14, 1942.  Photo includes Leslie Coleman (4th from left), Kathleen Wilson (5th), Jean Dixon (6th) and owner, Fred Hunter (7th).

It was
two-and-one-half miles from downtown Brevard to Pisgah Forest.  About midway along this heavily traveled
thoroughfare was the Pisgah Tavern established by Fred and Gladys Hunter around
1941.

The
Pisgah Tavern was a popular spot for a cold drink.  A newspaper notice stated that beginning
April 1, 1942 the cost for 16 oz. and 12 oz. beers would be raised to 20 and 15
cents respectively, at several Transylvania establishments including the Pisgah
Tavern, to cover increased wholesale prices. 
The tavern sold wine and soft drinks, as well. 
The business included a café serving sandwiches, homemade chili, pit
BBQ, fresh ham, fried chicken and sizzling t-bone steaks. 

On May
9, 1944 the tavern held a Gala Opening of their new open-air Beer Garden.  Entertainment for the event included a floor
show, tap dancing and free bingo with prizes.

In
1947 the Hunters opened the Pisgah Motor Court across the highway from the
Pisgah Tavern.  It was the first motel
style accommodation for tourists in Transylvania County.  Originally there was an 8-room unit.  Each modern room had its own bath and
kitchenette, allowing for privacy.  There
was also ample parking.  In addition,
there was a cottage available for tourists and plans for expansion.

The
Pisgah Motor Court included four cottages and 10 motel units, plus a large home
when the Hunters sold the property to Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Brennan in early 1955.  Fred and Gladys Hunter later owned and operated
the Brevard Motor Lodge (present day Food Lion shopping center) for a few years
in the early 1960s.

Photographs
and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina
Room, Transylvania County Library. Visit the NC Room during regular library
hours (Monday-Friday) to learn more about our history and see additional
photographs. For more information, comments, or suggestions contact Marcy at [email protected]
or 828-884-1820.