The mission of the Southern Appalachian Historical Association is to explore, preserve, and share the region’s rich cultural heritage.
We accomplish that mission through theatrical, educational, and museum programming.
In 1951, a group of local citizens decided to create a summer historical outdoor drama to encourage overnight tourists to visit Boone and experience the beauty and cool weather of the mountains. That fall, playwright Kermit Hunter was commissioned to write the script, and on December 9, 1951, SAHA was formed as the producing organization. Ground-breaking for the outdoor amphitheater began March, 1952 and opening night of Horn in the West™ Outdoor Drama was June 27. In 1980, SAHA added six historic cabins to create Hickory Ridge History Museum. The museum re-creates a small mountain community to show guests the daily lives of our high country ancestors and the living conditions of the Horn in the West™ characters.
Our geographical area covered is Watauga and adjacent counties.
To support this important mission, learn how you can become a member of the Southern Appalachian Historical Association.
We are currently working on a system to host recurring donations. Stay tuned!
SOUTHERN APPALACHIAN HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIR: MARY GREENE
VICE CHAIR: CHARLIE WALLIN
TREASURER: WILLIAM WINKLER, III
SECRETARY: DORIS LAWS
AT LARGE:
JOE BENTLEY, DON COVER, DONALD FIDLER, STEPHANIE GREER, DONNA McNEIL, BRENDA POLLARD, MARK HOWELL, DONNA AKERS, BRENDA COUNCILL
Creation of the Daniel Boone Amphitheater, March 1952
Photo Courtesy of Wendy Fletcher
Photo Courtesy of Wendy Fletcher
Photo Courtesy of Wendy Fletcher
Southern Appalachian Historical Association Partners and Sponsors
Southern Appalachian Historical Association is a Member Of:
