Kenmure Clubhouse
The Storied Charm of Kenmure in Flat Rock, NC
Tucked into the historic landscape of Flat Rock, North Carolina, Kenmure is more than just a gated community—it’s a living storybook set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For those considering a move to Hendersonville or exploring what it’s like living in Hendersonville, the rich layers of Kenmure’s past offer a unique sense of place that’s hard to replicate. From Southern aristocrats and stately gardens to European friendships and community transformation, Kenmure embodies the enduring charm of Western North Carolina.
A Legacy That Began With Glenroy
The story begins in 1836, when Dr. Mitchell Campbell King, a well-educated physician and visionary, purchased 293 acres from his father—one of Flat Rock’s founding figures. On this land, King established the estate of Glenroy. Designed by Scottish builder Mr. Freeman and built with local timber, Glenroy earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful homes in Western North Carolina. Its Greek Revival architecture and sweeping views made it a beacon of elegance.
Glenroy wasn’t just home; it was a medical center, a family sanctuary, and a summer haven. Dr. King’s friendship with German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck even led to a personal collection of letters now preserved in the Library of Congress. And when yellow fever epidemics swept through Florida in the 1880s, it was Dr. King who suggested Hendersonville as a convalescent retreat—an idea that would eventually help establish the area as a vacation and wellness destination.
The Emergence of Rutledge Cottage
After the Kings moved into the completed Glenroy mansion, the original smaller cottage on the property took on a life of its own. Relocated by oxen-drawn logs, the cottage was later named Forest Hill and sold to relatives of the storied Rutledge family of Hampton Plantation fame. Today, it stands as Rutledge Cottage, lovingly maintained by the Schenck family for over 55 years, reflecting the architectural and familial heritage that shaped Flat Rock.
From Glenroy to Kenmure
The estate changed hands in the 20th century when Gordon McCabe II purchased it and renamed it Kenmure after the ancestral home of the Gordon Clan in Scotland. His family made their mark by enhancing the grounds with dogwoods, azaleas, and a spring-fed lake that quickly became a community gem. The McCabes brought vitality to the estate, maintaining a cattle farm, adding a wrap-around porch to the grand home, and hosting social events that echoed with laughter and lake swims.
The legacy continued with William Gordon McCabe, Jr., who managed the land and cattle operations until the estate eventually transitioned into a private club and residential development. What was once Glenroy is now Kenmure Country Club, a vibrant hub for modern-day residents who get to enjoy the same natural beauty and community spirit nurtured by generations past.
Living in Kenmure Today
Today, Kenmure offers sophisticated mountain living with all the amenities of a luxury private club. A beautiful clubhouse, golf course designed by Joseph E. Lee, tennis courts, and fitness facilities blend seamlessly with the estate’s historic architecture. Homes are built to preserve the integrity of the past while offering modern comforts, making this an ideal location for those planning to relocate to Hendersonville.
If you’re seeking a place steeped in history with breathtaking scenery and a close-knit community, Kenmure may be the perfect fit. Whether you admire the local lore or are considering living in Hendersonville, Kenmure offers both roots and wings.
Historic Preservation and Community Engagement
Flat Rock is a village that values its past, and few projects display this commitment better than Flat Rock Together. Local initiatives help celebrate and preserve the town’s rich history, from the Carl Sandburg Home to the best-kept garden secrets. The community spirit here seamlessly blends the past and present—something you’ll feel immediately upon arrival.
For lovers of culture, heritage, and serene mountain living, Flat Rock—and its crown jewel, Kenmure—is a sublime opportunity. Whether you want an active lifestyle amid golf greens and hiking paths or simply wish to gaze at dogwoods from a porch steeped in story, Kenmure continues to welcome new chapters.
Final Thoughts
As you consider moving to Hendersonville or exploring the best things to do in Hendersonville, don’t overlook the historic richness that Kenmure provides. More than a neighborhood, it’s a legacy wrapped in mountain mists and Southern charm—a place where stories, landscapes, and lives intertwine beautifully.
Ready to explore homes in Kenmure or learn more about Flat Rock’s inspiring communities? Don’t forget to subscribe to the Flat Rock Together newsletter for the latest local news and hidden gems.