High Hampton Historical Collection

PRESS RELEASE | MARCH 17, 2025 | CASHIERS, NC

Cashiers Historical Society Acquires the High Hampton Historical Collection

Cashiers Historical Society announces that it has acquired the High Hampton History Collection from the Club at High Hampton. This thousand-object collection illustrates the history of the landmark High Hampton Inn, from its earliest days as the Hampton family estate to the founding of the Inn.

The McKee family purchased the property in 1922 and turned the Hampton estate into a renowned Inn. Cashiers Historical Society’s Executive Director, Amelia Golcheski, says, “We are thrilled and honored to steward and share this important part of Cashiers history with our community. High Hampton played a large role in developing Cashiers into a resort destination, and it's a significant part of our history.” The collection was previously housed at the High Hampton History Center at High Hampton.  

For the past six years, the High Hampton History Center has been dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Inn and the surrounding Cashiers community. Ann McKee Austin, the granddaughter of High Hampton Inn founder E.L. McKee Sr., spearheaded the effort to preserve the history of the High Hampton Inn.  Since its inception in 2019, the center has uncovered fascinating stories, rare artifacts, and invaluable connections that celebrate the deep-rooted heritage of High Hampton. Carrie Snoey, Events and Communication Manager at High Hampton says, “As High Hampton turns the page to an exciting new chapter, stewardship of the High Hampton history collection will transition to the Cashiers Historical Society, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive. Guided tours and historical experiences will remain an integral part of High Hampton, offering members and guests the opportunity to explore its storied past with our property historian, Robert Gleason. The commitment to preserving and sharing High Hampton’s history remains strong, and we look forward to continuing this journey with the community and the Cashiers Historical Society.”

Cashiers Historical Society will display the collection in a new exhibit, “Let No One Be a Stranger Here: High Hampton Inn and the Making of Modern Cashiers,” which will open to the public in June of this year. 

Cashiers Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve the heritage of Cashiers Valley through education, stewardship, and advocacy.

For more information, contact: info@cashiershistoricalsociety.org