Restoring a farm back to its roots

A Rutherfordton couple is giving an old farmhouse a new beginning by restoring it to a working farm and event venue.

John and Sheri Crenshaw purchased the Rucker-Biggerstaff House, which was built in 1910, two years ago and have been working to restore the property, now known as New Beginnings Historic Farm. Built by Guilford Nanney - who built the first steps from the parking lot to the top of Chimney Rock - the structure served as not only the private residence for a physician but was also home to his medical office.

"We'll sometimes find some old medicine bottles and even found an inkwell," Sheri said. "We started renovating the day we walked in the door."

The house had been a dream home for John, an EMT who lived in Hendersonville, for many years before the couple purchased it.

"He used to go to Spindale once a week and he'd drive past and say 'I'd love to have that house,'" Sheri explained.

Once married, the couple decided they wanted their children to experience farm life and began searching for a property that would meet their needs.

"It was a bit overwhelming at first," Sheri said. "I looked for about a year, but I think it was providential. We've become history buffs owning an old home. We've learned that in years past that having wooden wall slats and floors indicated you were more poor - that only those who were wealthy could afford carpet."

Through research Sheri learned that the property was once a working farm, and the couple is working to restore it to its roots as such.

"We've always wanted to have something that was self-supporting," John said. The farm is home not only to the couple and their children, but also George the donkey, goats, rabbits and chickens. Eventually, the couple would like to have goats for milking as well.

The couple has begun hosting weddings on the property, a decision made in part by Sheri's own search for a wedding venue. There is ample space for outdoor weddings or intimate indoor gatherings.

For those who'd like to tour the farm or plan an event there, a Vintage Fair is scheduled at the farm on Sunday, Sept. 20, from 1 to 5 p.m. The fair will include vintage-inspired suppliers, food samples, information from wedding professionals and tours of the farm. Admission is $5 per guest.

For more information on the farm, visit newbeginningsfarm.com.