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North Carolina

The Legacy of the Scots-Irish: Historical Migration to Cultural Inspiration

Program No. 20141RJ
Learn how the Scots-Irish helped shape our nation as you explore their contributions to Appalachian culture, Civil War history and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

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At a Glance

From the 17th Century to the present, the saga of Scots-Irish history and culture is one of our nation’s most fascinating stories. Trace the path of the Scots-Irish and discover why many settled in the Southern Appalachian region, where they adapted to conquer adversities, tame the wilderness and became great inventors and explorers. Discover cultural traditions from the old country that found fertile ground in Appalachia, and see how music, story and dance flourished and took on new life in the isolation of mountain life.
Activity Level
Easy Going
All facilities are in one building, with approximately 300 yards walking required; a few stairs. Outside areas are mountainous, with inclines and uneven terrain.

What You'll Learn

  • Get a new perspective on the music, crafts and history of Southern Appalachia during field trips to the Mountain Gateway Museum and Heritage Center and the Folk Art Center.
  • Visit the Oak and Grist Distillery and learn about their history and process. We'll visit the tasting room too!
  • Learn about the Scots who were instrumental in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and about the 21 men of Gallic descent who signed it.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, a live performance or event, and a value-priced single room. Opportunities are available for traveling companions to attend a different program at Montreat during the same week. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices will be unavailable.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Sam Hobson
A native of Black Mountain, N.C., Sam Hobson is a retired Presbyterian Church pastor. He is a trainer for facilitators of Healthy Congregations workshops and is a bridge builder for conflict management, and is working to write training manuals for leaders in the church. He is also a homebrewer!

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Sam Hobson
Sam Hobson View biography
A native of Black Mountain, N.C., Sam Hobson is a retired Presbyterian Church pastor. He is a trainer for facilitators of Healthy Congregations workshops and is a bridge builder for conflict management, and is working to write training manuals for leaders in the church. He is also a homebrewer!
Profile Image of Anne Lough
Anne Lough View biography
Anne Lough is an internationally known traditional musician who performs and teaches at schools, workshops and festivals throughout the country, in the British Isles, Ireland and Belgium. She holds a bachelor’s in music education from Murray State University in Kentucky and a master’s from Western Carolina University. Anne is particularly respected for her artistic, sensitive style of playing and skill as an instructor and arranger. She has produced many books of dulcimer arrangements and her music can be heard on several recordings.
Profile Image of Righton McCallum
Righton McCallum View biography
Righton McCallum is a retired English teacher and research librarian. She has taught the local history and research course at Blue Ridge Community College in Hendersonville, N.C. Righton authored the folklore chapter of the textbook “North Carolina Research: Genealogy and Local History” and has also written two books of her own Carolina-inspired poetry, “The Montreat Gate” and “Beside the Lake.” She and her husband have two sons, three granddaughters, and one grandson; they are all owned by a tabby cat.
Profile Image of Tracy Bailey
Tracy Bailey View biography
Tracy has been on the program staff of Montreat Conference Center since 1986. She began working with Elderhostel programs in 1989, and in 1997 assumed the additional role of on-site coordinator. A native of the area, she graduated from Asheville-Buncombe Technical College in 1981. Her favorite hobbies are hiking, pottery and reading. Tracy married Sam in 2007, and added three daughters to her family. In addition to her own grown children, she and Sam have been foster parents since 2010. They have four grandchildren.
Profile Image of Lee Knight
Lee Knight View biography
Lee Knight is a folk singer, story teller and Road Scholar instructor of over 40 years. Raised in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, he performs at concerts, workshops, festivals, and schools. Lee shares his knowledge of the natural world as well as music and stories of the Southern Appalachian mountains. He has collected and shares Cherokee legends and plays the Cherokee flute and rattle, as well as the Native American drum. He also plays the five-string banjo, guitars, and the Appalachian dulcimer.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Low Salt, Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 18, 2024
  • Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 18, 2024
  • Sep 08, 2024 - Sep 13, 2024
  • Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 18, 2024
  • Nov 03, 2024 - Nov 08, 2024
  • Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
  • Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
  • Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
  • May 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025
  • Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
  • Oct 26, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
  • Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
  • Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.





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