Grovewood Gallery to host history tours
March 14, 2017
Just across the street from the Omni Grove Park Inn lies a destination unlike any other: Grovewood Village, housed in the historic weaving and woodworking complex of Biltmore Industries – a groundbreaking enterprise in the history of American craft and textiles, with ties to George and Edith Vanderbilt, Edwin Wiley Grove, and Fred Loring Seely. In its heyday, Biltmore Industries had a total of 40 looms in steady operation, producing bolts of some of the highest quality homespun fabric in the country, worn by U.S. presidents, first ladies, and many American icons.
Learn the story of Biltmore Industries on a guided history tour, offered Wednesday – Saturday at 1pm during April – December. The tour includes a visit to the historic Dye House in Grovewood Village (usually closed to the public), where the original looms, carding machines, mule spinners, and dye vats used to make Biltmore Handwoven Homespun can still be viewed. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and are geared towards adults. There is no charge to take the tour, but donations are appreciated. Spots are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Maximum 25 people per tour. Meet your guide at the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum, next door to Grovewood Gallery.
2017 marks the 100th anniversary of Biltmore Industries’ home at Grovewood Village. A centennial celebration will take place Saturday, June 17 from 12 – 5pm, which will include a special exhibition of fiber art by 7 regional weavers, artist demonstrations, guided history tours, a cake cutting ceremony, and a historical presentation by Bruce Johnson (2pm) – Director of the National Arts & Crafts Conference at The Grove Park Inn since 1988.