In order for the Catawba Valley Scottish Society to fulfill its goals and expectations in preserving and sharing the Scottish and Scots-Irish culture and heritage a facility is needed to support such endeavors. This center will be the starting point for visitors to gain an introduction to the Scottish experience and Rural Hill.

At the April 2006 Loch Norman Highland Games architectural renderings were submitted and presented to the general audience to introduce the concept. The following areas will be implemented into this facility.

Genealogical Library and Research Center
This library will allow visitors to come and research their genealogical roots which will include Scottish and Scots-Irish genealogy, but not necessarily limited. It will also be a safe holding for any rare books and manuscripts of related subjects.

Exhibit and Display Areas
The exhibit and display area will provide an educational experience for visitors through artifacts, exhibits, and demonstrations. Some exhibits will be permanent, and others will be rotating to provide visitors with a new experience each time they visit Rural Hill.

Gift Shop
In our new gift shop visitors will find unique pieces of merchandise related to the Scottish culture and the history of Rural Hill. Reference books, educational materials, CDs, DVDs, candies, handcrafted wares, coffee mugs, magnets, postcards, apparel, stuffed animals, and other types of merchandise will be available for sale. All proceeds will go toward enhancing and preserving the Rural Hill-Center of Scottish Heritage.

Café and Tea Room
Visitors will want to take a break from walking and viewing the 265 acre farm site and exhibits. A dining area will allow visitors to enjoy a simple lunch or snack before making their way back to see more. This facility will also be used to prepare meals for fundraising dinners and receptions.

Theater and Auditorium
The theater and auditorium area will play an important part in introducing visitors to Rural Hill and the Scottish experience. This room will serve as an excellent venue for lectures, presentations, and conference gatherings. Multi media presentations will also be made available.

Administrative Offices
Offices for the full-time staff will be essential for them to carry out the daily operations of the site. These offices will include computers and communication systems necessary to operate Historic Rural Hill-Center of Scottish Heritage.

Meeting Rooms
Meeting rooms will be made available to members and guests for conferences, receptions, and retreats. These rooms may also be used as banquet halls for fundraising events and annual Catawba Valley Scottish Society banquets.

MAKE A DONATION
If you would like to make a donation to help us build this new community Scottish cultural and heritage center please click below to donate securely online.