Deb Phillips & Jim Hall
Offering compassionate Marriage, Family, Child & Individual Counseling Services, professionals in Saluda, NC, are here to support your journey toward healing and growth.
Saluda Stories: Heartwood Gallery Legacy
Heartwood Gallery legacy leaves an awe inspiring 40 year legacy of the rare 100% American Craft.
Some places aren’t just shops—they’re sanctuaries, woven with the threads of art, purpose, and community. Heartwood Gallery, nestled in the charming mountain town of Saluda, NC, is one of those rare places. For 40 years, it has been a beacon for lovers of local craft and a lifeline for artists in the Blue Ridge region. But now, this beloved gallery is preparing to close its doors forever. As the final chapter of Heartwood’s story unfolds, it’s clear that it is so much more than a store—it’s a living piece of history.
One visitor discovered just how special Heartwood was on a sunny, quiet morning. She arrived in Saluda looking for a moment of peace, her mind cluttered with the demands of modern life. Wandering into Heartwood Gallery, she immediately felt the space’s warmth and authenticity. The gallery seemed to hum with life, each shelf and display brimming with unique, handcrafted treasures. There were delicate pieces of pottery, hand-carved wooden bowls, colorful jewelry, and woven textiles—all bearing the unmistakable imprint of an artist’s hands and heart.
She was especially drawn to a scarf displayed by the window. The intricate design of ferns, rivers, and leaves practically glowed in the soft mountain light. Picking it up, she marveled at its texture and the way it seemed to carry the spirit of the forest. The gallery manager noticed her curiosity and shared the story behind it.
The scarf, she explained, was created by a local artist who found inspiration in the natural beauty of Saluda. The artist used dyes derived from plants foraged right here in the Saluda mountains, crafting a piece that truly reflected the essence of the region. It wasn’t just a scarf—it was a living testament to the artist’s connection with nature and their ability to transform simple materials into something extraordinary.
The visitor was struck by the rarity of what she had found. In a world of mass production and convenience, Heartwood Gallery was a reminder of something much deeper: the value of craft, the importance of supporting local artisans, and the magic of creating something meaningful from the world around us.
The gallery manager shared more about Heartwood’s mission, explaining how it had spent decades championing 100% American Craft and showcasing only local artists. “Art should be practical,” she said with a warm smile, “but it should also remind us of who we are and where we come from.”
Moved by the story and the gallery’s purpose, the visitor purchased the scarf. But it wasn’t just a transaction—it was a turning point. Every time she wears the scarf now, she is reminded to slow down, to cherish what is handmade, and to honor the people who pour their passion into their work.
Heartwood Gallery is more than a store; it’s a legacy—a testament to the power of art and the connection it fosters. Don’t miss the chance to visit this extraordinary place before it closes on March 2. Step into its story, experience its magic, and take home a piece of Saluda’s history.
Some things can’t be replaced. True craft is about more than beauty—it’s about purpose, heart, and community. Let this be your moment to rediscover the joy of American Craft before it’s too late.
Experience Heartwood Gallery at 21 E Main St, Saluda, NC 28773
Hours:
Sunday: 11am-4pm
Monday-Wednesday: Closed
Thursday 11am-4pm
Friday-Saturday 11am-5pm
http://www.heartwoodsaluda.com/
828-749-9365
Stories from Saluda: Hometown Christmas Tradition
by Emily Lamar
For over 35 years, I have cherished the magic of Saluda’s Hometown Christmas. Each December, the streets of our charming town transform into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and warm smiles. This beloved tradition brings our community together, and every year, it feels like stepping into a living Christmas card.
The spirit of Hometown Christmas is more than just the festive décor or the delicious snacks—it’s the people. Friends old and new gather to celebrate, sharing laughter, stories, and good cheer. Strolling through town on this special night, I am always reminded of why Saluda holds such a special place in my heart.
I can still hear the joyful notes of Robert Seiler playing the piano at The Purple Onion, his music filling the room with warmth and cheer. As a kid, my friends and I would run through the streets, darting from one shop to another, giggling and sneaking extra treats wherever we could. Wildflour Bakery was always a highlight, its table overflowing with treats that tasted just like Christmas.
Years later, the magic came full circle as I started bringing my own kids to Hometown Christmas. Watching their eyes light up as they soaked in the wonder of the season was unforgettable. Now, sharing the experience with my grandchildren brings that same joy and wonder back to life.
Caroling with friends and neighbors added to the nostalgia, the familiar tunes uniting us all in song. Standing shoulder to shoulder, bundled against the crisp winter air, our voices would rise together, carrying melodies that seemed to echo through the streets and into the hearts of everyone who heard them.
The town itself is a spectacle during Hometown Christmas, aglow with lights, garlands, and wreaths that make every corner sparkle with holiday cheer. I’ve loved handing out cookies, a small but heartfelt way to give back to the community. And every year, seeing the streets come alive with people—whether longtime residents or visitors experiencing the magic for the first time—reminds me of the deep sense of connection and belonging that defines Saluda.
Each year, as I wander the streets of our little town, I’m filled with gratitude for the simple joys and enduring traditions that make Hometown Christmas so special. It’s not just an event; it’s a celebration of everything that makes Saluda home.
What are some of your favorite memories from Hometown Christmas? We’d love to hear your stories and share in the joy of this wonderful tradition.
Behind the Curtain at Mountain Page Theater
The Theater’s History and Roots
Mountain Page Theater in Saluda is more than a performance venue—it is a community landmark rich with history and dedication. Established in 2020, the theater’s roots stretch back to a 2016 outreach program started by Corinne Gerwe while serving on the Saluda Historic Depot Board. It found its home when local resident Hilda Pace generously gave Corinne use of a long-closed building once run by her mother as Mountain Page Community Center. Volunteers came together to transform this space into a fully functioning theater, complete with modern sound and lighting systems. Located in the scenic Mountain Page area, surrounded by forests and foothills, the theater’s intimate setting reflects the heart of Saluda’s artistic spirit.
Community Impact
Mountain Page Theater has become a vital part of Saluda’s culture, bringing people together to celebrate creativity. More than just a venue, it is a hub for connection, where residents of all ages gather to support local talent and participate in Saluda’s arts scene. Volunteers, families, and community members have created a close-knit network that helps the theater flourish. For both performers and audiences, the theater represents a shared pride and commitment to keeping the arts vibrant in their hometown.
Seasonal Highlights and Upcoming Events
Each season, Mountain Page Theater offers a lineup of performances that appeal to families, friends, and theater enthusiasts alike. Past productions, like Mary Poppins and The Little Mermaid, showcased the Young Actors Krew (YAK) alongside seasoned actors, highlighting the breadth of local talent. This season promises a similar mix of classic and contemporary shows, providing something for everyone. Special holiday events, local plays, and seasonal highlights continue to draw enthusiastic audiences, helping the theater secure its place as a beloved community destination.
Meet the Faces Behind the Curtain
The dedication of the directors, actors, and volunteers at Mountain Page Theater brings each production to life, and a talented team works tirelessly behind the scenes:
- Corinne F. Gerwe – As the Executive Director, Corinne oversees theater operations, bringing a visionary approach to the organization’s growth and mission.
- MPT Board of Directors: David & Janet Berry, Samuel Woodbery, Jim & Kathy Beyer, Richard Rutherford, Hope Pace, and Allen McCullough guide MTP’s 501c3 non-profit growth and development, and are the primary building construction, renovations, and landscaping team.
- Ashley Sandahl –As Production Coordinator is involved with every aspect of play production including directing, marketing, and scheduling while keeping each show organized and efficient. She also assists with the after-school program and leads the summer workshop program.
- Zachary Eden – Also involved in the after-school program, Zachary works closely with young actors, helping them develop skills and confidence on stage.
Their collective passion and expertise make each show possible while fostering a welcoming environment where performers feel support and audiences feel captivated.
Educational Programs and Youth Engagement
One of Mountain Page Theater’s core missions is its commitment to youth engagement. The Young Actors Krew (YAK) began as a small outreach with thirteen members and has since expanded to more than twenty young actors, ages four to sixteen. Through workshops, rehearsals, and performances, YAK provides young people with a creative outlet where they can learn the ins and outs of performing arts. The program fosters self-confidence, communication skills, and a deep appreciation for the arts, making a lasting impact on Saluda’s youth. The theater also offers workshops that allow kids and teens to explore the joy of acting, production, and teamwork. A paid summer apprentice program began in 2024, with four interns assisting the summer workshop volunteer staff, the interns paid by two Board member donations and MPT patron, Susan Johnson. The Dogwood Foundation recently awarded MTP a grant for the 2025 summer workshop and two apprenticeships.
A Visit to the Theater Experience
Attending a show at Mountain Page Theater offers a unique, cozy experience that is hard to find in larger venues. Nestled in the scenic Mountain Page area, the theater has an intimate setup with warm seating and a rustic charm that makes every visitor feel welcome. The small, personal space makes every seat feel close to the stage, allowing audiences to connect with the performance in a way often lost in bigger venues. It is an experience where the energy of each scene fills the room, creating an immersive atmosphere for all ages.
Call to Support Local Arts
Mountain Page Theater depends on the support of patrons, volunteers, and donors to continue bringing the arts to Saluda. By attending a show, volunteering, or donating, community members and visitors can help sustain this beloved institution. Supporting the theater is not just about keeping a venue open—it is about investing in Saluda’s cultural future and providing a stage for local artists and young talent. There is a role for everyone, whether as an audience member, a volunteer, or a financial supporter.
Mountain Page Theater is a place where community, creativity, and the love of the arts come together. Whether you are attending a show or lending a hand, being part of Mountain Page Theater is a chance to connect, contribute, and help keep the arts thriving in Saluda.
To learn more visit, www.mountainpage.theater
Stories from Saluda: The Storm
Three strangers, One storm and the Woman who Saved Us
I never thought I’d be grateful for a mudslide, but life has a strange way of teaching you what matters.
The rain was coming down in torrents, hammering against my SUV as we wound through the twisting roads of Saluda, North Carolina. I squinted through the windshield, struggling to see beyond the few feet illuminated by the headlights. Beside me sat my two work colleagues, we were on a business trip, caught in the clutches of Hurricane Helene. The wind roared through the trees around us, bending branches in violent arcs, and thunder rumbled in the distance. It was only 5:30 AM, yet the storm made the early morning feel as dark as midnight.
As we rounded a bend, a sudden rumble sounded—a thick cascade of mud and debris poured down the hillside, blocking our path. Before I could react, the SUV jerked to a halt, trapped in a suffocating mass of fallen trees, mud, and downed power lines. For a long moment, the three of us sat in silence, each absorbing the reality of our situation. We were stranded in the midst of a hurricane, surrounded by debris and cut off from the world.
I glanced over at my colleagues, saying “We can’t stay here,” my voice barely audible over the relentless pounding of the rain. We had two choices: remain in the car, hoping someone would find us, or leave the vehicle behind and try to find help on foot.
With a shared look of determination, we grabbed our jackets and stepped out into the storm. Together, we set off up the steep, slippery road, our phone flashlights barely piercing the dark. The rain was relentless. Every few steps, one of us would slip on the steep road. We linked arms eventually, steadying each other as we climbed. I remember thinking how absurd we must look – arguing about PowerPoint slides just hours ago, now clinging to each other like children in the dark. We fought against the wind and rain, hoping desperately that somewhere up the road, we’d find shelter. I kept my eyes trained on the horizon, each step feeling heavier than the last, but held onto one thought—there had to be someone out here.
After what felt like an eternity, we spotted a faint light in the distance, glowing against the pitch-black backdrop. As we got closer other homes came into view but all looked dark and hopeless. As we got closer to the light, we all looked at each other with hope in our eyes, this house shone brightly, powered by a generator. The sight felt like a miracle.
With hesitant optimism, we approached and knocked, worried that no one would let the three of us in, because of the disheveled state we were all in. But when the door opened, we were met with a warm, unexpected sight: an elderly woman, standing calmly in the doorway. She didn’t hesitate. Didn’t question. Just opened her door wider and said, “Well, come in before you catch your death.” She offered us warmth, safety, and kindness. Over the next three days, as the storm passed, she shared her food, her dry clothes, and her stories, treating us like family.
The experience changed us all. In the midst of a hurricane, two generations—complete strangers—we found ourselves brought together, not by necessity alone, but by the quiet strength of trust and compassion.
As we climbed into our now-freed SUV, I made a silent promise to myself. I would carry this memory with me, a story to share with others, and a reminder of the spirit we’d witnessed in Saluda. I will remember this town not as a place where we were stranded by tragedy but as the place where kindness became a lifeline, where strangers become family, and where hope shone brightly in the darkest hours.
From that day on, Saluda became more than a small town on a map—it became a symbol of resilience, compassion, and humanity. And I know that whenever I face hardship in the future, I’ll remember the light that guided us through one of life’s fiercest storms.