By Erik Jordan

Date: 10/15/2016

Sponsored by Table Rock Sports Car Club

Touring Joara 2016 took participants through four western North Carolina counties on some of the most scenic and historic roads in the area.  We drove on roads that the Overmountain Men traveled 236 years ago on their way to the Battle of Kings Mountain as well as Juan Pardo's expedition into the interior reaching the Native American town of Joara in 1567.  We drove on roads such as Fish Hatchery Rd, called "the Worm", NC Highway 80, called the" Devil's Whip" and also in US 226a which is referred to as "Diamond Back".  The Tour took us by various points of interest including the McDowell House, the Carson House and the Berry Site where the Native American town of Joara and Fort San Juan Archeological sites are located.  We were treated to stunning views of Lake James, Table Rock, Shortoff Mountain, Lake Tahoma and Mount Mitchell not to mention the onset of the beautiful fall colors.  The tour's last stop was at the Hook & Anchor Restaurant in Marion NC were we were treated to a delicious BBQ meal.

There were a few folks from Catawba Valley British Motor Club who participated this year in tour.  Included were Corky and Priscilla Guenther in their 1949 MG TC, Gary Shaver in his Austin Healey and myself in my 1985 Morgan +8.  Another member, Gene Spainhour stopped by in his 356 Porsche to visit prior to the 9:30 am tour start.  It was a great day for a drive in the mountains.  I want to thank Table Rock Sports Car Club and all the volunteers for putting on this special event.  This year’s tour was dedicated in memory of David Deal, one of the founders of TRSCC. 

Written in part from the event brochure with permission from the event sponsors.