NC to install historical marker at Chimney Rock

CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — Almost two years after the state bought Chimney Rock, officials are giving the natural landmark official recognition.

The state Department of Cultural Resources will install an N.C. Highway Historical Marker at U.S. 64/74A in Chimney Rock. The ceremony for the marker will be held Monday morning at the
Esmeralda Inn.

The 315-foot Chimney Rock towers over the 14-mile long gorge in Rutherford County. In 1880, Henderson County native Jerome Freeman found a way to build a stairway to the summit. In 1902, Lucius Morse and his brothers bought Chimney Rock and 64 acres for $5,000.

Morse dammed the Rocky Road River to create Lake Lure and added an elevator, among other upgrades. The state bought Chimney Rock in 2007 and continues to develop Chimney Rock State Park.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)