Excerpt from | Oral History Interview with Raymond Rapp, November 17, 2000. Interview K-0253. Southern Oral History Program Collection (#4007) |
Rapp illustrates some of the revitalization efforts that aimed to draw visitors to Mars Hill but retain its small-town character. Despite initial wariness, the gazebo became a social center in Mars Hill and triggered enthusiasm for community revitalization. The next step was the construction of a Madison County visitors center that makes Mars Hill the gateway to the county and that communicates directly with downtown merchants to ensure a welcoming atmosphere.