Washington County, VA, Businesses Showcase Appalachian Culture

©Journal Communications/Lynne Harty

The Appalachian Mountains stretch for more than 1,500 miles from Newfoundland in Canada and through 15 states in the U.S., ending in Alabama. The mountains encompass a rich lineage of music, art and food. From its highest peaks – Mount Mitchell and Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) – to the Shenandoah National Park and the Lost Sea, it’s a region distinguished by rugged terrain, rivers and deep woodlands. The people who call it home, and the businesses that spring from their desire to keep the Appalachian way of life alive, have made it a thriving region. 

Washington County, Virginia, is one special place, in particular, with a proud community willing to share its passion for time-honored traditions with visitors and future generations. Ahead, learn about three Washington County businesses that showcase and celebrate Appalachian culture.

Fig Tree Flower Farm

Fig Tree Flower Farm

Fig Tree Flower Farm blends agritourism, glamping and quilt design on its lush property in Damascus. Owner Jessica Swencki, who grew up on a family farm in rural eastern North Carolina and previously worked at a muscadine vineyard, sees the endeavor at Fig Tree as her “next chapter.” She’s especially happy to share the natural beauty of her surroundings with others as her venture develops. 

“We cultivate a variety of cut flowers – including perennials and annuals – and plan to expand into seasonal blooms and Virginia native plants that reflect the natural rhythm of the mountains,” Swencki says. 

Years ago, she discovered barn quilts. Since she’s more into painting than sewing, Swencki says it allowed her to blend that love with her creativity. Though barn quilts are typically used to decorate large exteriors as a way to communicate information about people and places, Swencki’s classes re-create traditional patterns and designs onto smaller wooden boards. 

“We love this community and want to bring joy and creativity to it through our work,” Swencki says. “You can find us sharing our flowers and art at local farmers markets and community events, as well as teaching workshops in partnership with nearby businesses. Everything we do is rooted in connection – with our neighbors, our visitors and the spirit of Damascus.” 

Highlands Ballet Company

Deirdre Cole, former ballerina-turned-artistic-director of Highlands Ballet Company, has been delighting audiences with dance performances for over 30 years. The Abingdon-based company was founded by her mother, Deanna, who is also a classically trained dancer, and together, the mother-daughter team works to put on several full-length productions each season. Past events have included such classics as “The Nutcracker,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Wizard of Oz.” 

Dancers perform at the McGlothlin Center for the Arts at Emory & Henry University but have also participated in a variety of community events such as the Virginia Highlands Festival, an annual summer affair that celebrates all things Appalachia. For young and emerging dancers, the Highland Center for Ballet Arts – a branch of Highlands Ballet Company – offers a series of classes that culminate with a recital as well as toddler Kindermusik classes to inspire a love of music, movement and art appreciation. 

The Speckled Trout Outpost

The Speckled Trout Outpost

Family-run The Speckled Trout Outpost is part of a “purposefully multi-pronged” group of businesses across North Carolina (Blowing Rock and Boone) and in Damascus meant to highlight culinary roots, outdoor culture and the full Appalachian experience. In addition to a restaurant/bottle shop and full-service outfitter, The Outpost provides lodging options for a “boutique short-stay” with suites and studio rooms. 

Roger Capote handles marketing for the vacation rental and says guests can “eat regionally, learn local fishing and hiking traditions from guides, and sleep in a boutique space designed to celebrate the town. The approach supports local economies and showcases Appalachian culture (foodways, outdoor heritage, craft beverages) as the product.” 

Guests can also book excursion packages that include biking the Virginia Creeper Trail, hiking and more. 

“Guides are local outdoor professionals who craft half-day and full-day outings tailored to the water, season and client experience,” Capote says. “Peak seasons are spring and fall for trout in the high country, though guides note opportunities year-round.”