Preservation Celebration at Many Pines in Flat Rock

Preservation Celebration at Many Pines in Flat Rock 

Located high in the Blue Ridge, Flat Rock was established as a colony for wealthy Charlestonians and other South Carolinians to escape the summer heat and is sometimes known as “Little Charleston of the Mountains.” Take a respite in the NC mountains this summer to explore the stunning historic house and grounds at Many Pines, one of the most authentic of the “old Flat Rock” estates.  

The two-and-a-half-story frame house is a happy blend of fretwork, latticework, pointed and rounded arches, with Victorian details that delight the eye. The house is situated on a meadowed hill and is oriented to face a circular drive. A dozen outbuildings are scattered around the property, including a barn, a dairy, and slave quarters. The house was constructed in 1859 by Henry “Squire” Farmer, a well-known builder of many early buildings in Flat Rock and Hendersonville. It was commissioned by the Charlestonian merchant, James Pringle, who purchased this home and twenty-nine acres with his wife, Sarah Ladson. The property was acquired by Augustine T. Smythe in 1908, who gave the estate its name, “Many Pines.” The property remains with Smythe descendant, Langdon Edmunds Oppermann and her husband, noted preservation architect Joe Oppermann.  

Read more about Many Pines in this wonderful article by Jane Izard.