404 Whiteside Mountain Rd, Highlands, NC 28741

Overlooking Whiteside Mountain, the rolling hills of Cashiers Valley & the mesmerizing mountains beyond, stands a timeless treasure, steeped in history & familial love. Nestled on 4.18 acres behind old-growth rhododendron & tall trees, a majestic 1938 3BR/2.5BA farmhouse echoes with generations past. Tom & Theresa Cook of Palm Beach, FL, were drawn to Highlands' mild summers & tranquil settings, thus becoming the stewards of this cherished summer residence in 1939, creating warm family memories & traditions. The spectacular flat grounds, flower gardens & majestic mountain views like no other created the idyllic setting where 5 generations wove a tapestry of cherished memories. In the early days, before progress reached Whiteside Mtn Rd, the ridge stood as a testament to nature's untouched beauty. Only 5 houses stood, connected by winding pathways, where residents roamed & mingled freely. The rare flattish landscape was a playground of discovery, where garnets laid scattered waiting to be unearthed & carried by jarfuls to Mr. Gellen at the Gem Shop & the jeep-led tram ferrying hikers to Whiteside Mtn drove by. Over time, the main house evolved w/ the additions of the dining room, kitchen, & carport & two 2BR/1BA guest houses. The wormy chestnut paneling & detailing in the dining room were transported from Moultrie, GA, after a family friend found the wood for the Cooks. It wonderfully coordinated with the existing chestnut walls, paneling & detailing throughout the interior of the home. "Ridgecrest" was a local showpiece, featured in House & Garden magazine w/ postcards of it & its view sold locally at Doc Mitchell's drug store & Potts Grocery. Notable guests included a couple, tied to the Manhattan Project, who were seeking solace during World War II. The dining room sideboard, that remains in the home today, was a thank you gift for the engineer's worrisome visit. Today, this homestead remains a sanctuary of love & timeless connection-a testament to the human spirit.