Uncovering the Hidden History of Zirconia, NC
When you’re living in Hendersonville or just beginning to plan your move to Hendersonville, you’ll find that the stories tucked into the hills and hollers of Western North Carolina run deeper than you might expect. Just a few minutes south of downtown Hendersonville lies Zirconia—a small, quiet community with a name that speaks to its sparkling past. Curious about what’s it like living in Hendersonville and its surrounding areas? Let’s take a journey into the unique historical roots of Zirconia.
A Shimmering Start: How Zircon Put a Town on the Map
Believe it or not, this quaint community owes its name and early identity to the gemstone zircon. After the Civil War, Confederate General Thomas Lanier Clingman began mining zircon crystals in the region in 1869. Although these zircons weren’t destined for a jewelry case, they served an even brighter purpose—literally. The crystals were used in gas lamp mantles, making them highly valuable during the 19th century.
The interest in zircon caught the attention of none other than Thomas Edison. His visit to the Hendersonville area in 1906 wasn’t just a gentleman’s outing. Edison was prospecting for rare minerals like thorium, found in zircon, for use in his pioneering incandescent light bulbs. If you’re curious, this fascinating backstory is captured in more detail over at Blue Ridge Now.
Zirconia’s Local Legends and Enterprise
Zirconia’s mining boom saw the rise of three main operations: the Jones Mine, Freeman Mine, and the Pace Mine. The Freeman family, in particular, mined over 26 tons of zircon-rich ore in just one year, with much of it shipped to Edison’s New Jersey laboratory. These community-driven enterprises laid the groundwork for Henderson County’s industrial contributions far beyond its borders.
By 1902, local mogul Capt. Marion Columbus Toms had acquired and operated both the Jones and Freeman mines. Zircon was fetching a cool $250 per ton—big money in that era. Though today much of this historic activity lies beneath serene Lake Summit, the engineering spirit lingers.
The Naming, Renaming, and Role of the Post Office
Zirconia wasn’t always called Zirconia. The Green River Post Office briefly became “Coleman” in 1879 before shifting back to Green River, and finally, in 1890, adopting the name “Zirconia” in honor of the town’s mineral boom. This gave the community a unique name, one of the only towns in the U.S. named after a mineral—pretty cool, right?
Today, the Zirconia Post Office still serves the communities of Zirconia, Tuxedo, and Green River, keeping the tradition of neighborly connections alive. You can read more about this transformation over at Henderson Heritage.
Churches that Anchored the Community
As with many Appalachian communities, churches were the early cornerstones of daily life. Crossroads Baptist, established in 1845 and later relocated due to the formation of Lake Summit, continues to serve its congregation today. Mount Olivet, Zion Hill, and Zirconia Missionary Baptist churches also bear witness to generations of community faith, unity, and tradition.
A Moment at the Wayside Inn
In 1910, entrepreneur C.E. Roper opened the Wayside Inn on Butt Mountain, boasting mountain views, electric lights, and even baths—modern luxuries for the time. Along with Roper Tower, an 85-foot lookout tower, guests enjoyed sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Although the inn only operated for one season and Roper Tower ultimately succumbed to time and lightning, it cemented Zirconia’s place as a relaxing retreat for both locals and travelers.
Zirconia Today: A Peaceful Village with Historic Soul
Though the mines are long closed and the post office has moved locations, Zirconia still resonates with legacy. It’s bordered by Flat Rock, Tuxedo, and the gently rolling hills of the Green River Valley. With a population just north of 3,000, the community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle rooted in history—perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and connect with local culture.
If you’re considering a move to Hendersonville, a weekend drive out to Zirconia can unveil the area’s rich historical layers and natural charm, giving you a richer sense of what makes Henderson County so special. Whether it’s through its historic post office, heritage churches, or memorable relics of mineral fame, Zirconia is a reminder that even the smallest towns can sparkle with story.
Why Zirconia Should Be On Your Radar
• Rich local history tied to scientific legends like Edison and Clingman
• Deep community roots with longstanding churches and family legacies
• Scenic beauty just minutes from Flat Rock and Hendersonville
• Positioned near outdoor favorites like Lake Summit and the Green River
So next time you find yourself exploring the Learning Center for things to do in Hendersonville or planning the next stage of your mountain journey, consider setting your sights on Zirconia. You might just unearth a connection to the past that grounds your future here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.