What would entice a New York millionaire to build a palatial manor in the isolated mountains of North Carolina? At the turn of the 20th century, the people of Appalachia were still living much as they had for centuries, with no electricity and little infrastructure. Yet, in 1895, George W. Vanderbilt chose tiny Asheville, North Carolina, as the home for his now famous mansion, Biltmore. And, at the gates of the estate, one of America’s richest families, two inspired teachers, and the adults and children of Asheville built a unique Arts and Crafts enterprise.
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