When George Vanderbilt set out to construct the Biltmore estate, he envisioned not only a grand place for himself and his family, he wished to reconstruct the French-style country, self-sufficient estate. This plan included dairy farming. Raising livestock was not unheard of in Western North Carolina, as the terrain made it difficult to grow large rows of cash crops. Vanderbilt, wanting the best, imported Jersey cows for their high quality of milk in 1889.
Museum's New Location
The museum's original location closed for repairs due to damage from Hurricane Helene. We have moved to 78-C Catawba Ave, Old Fort, NC.
Change in Business Hours
Beginning June 1, the museum will be open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.