Exhibits cover topics of local and historical significance. The world's largest open-faced granite quarry can be found in Mount Airy. The original Siamese twins, Eng and Chang Bunker, lived in the White Plains community, which is nearby Mount Airy. Country music singer, Donna Fargo, and Bluegrass legend, Tommy Jarrell, are natives of Mount Airy. Jarrell's fiddle is on display in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C. Visitors can learn about these topics, as well as many others at the Robert Smith House.

The house is the former office of Dr. Robert Smith, brother of Gertrude Smith who is the benefactor of the Gilmer-Smith Foundation. This beautiful home was built in 1910 and is on the National Historic Register of Homes. Established in 1981, the historic Gertrude Smith House.

Located just behind the house is the Robert Smith Memorial Park. This park offers a peaceful greenspace in downtown Mount Airy. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the beautiful garden setting for picnics and as a gathering place for family and friends. During the Summer months, the park becomes the setting for the Summer Music Series in the Park. The Gilmer-Smith Foundation, which operates the house and park, sponsors this annual series. There is no admission charge.

All concerts which trace the musical heritage of North Carolina through various instruments and traditional stories are held on the third Sunday of each month through September at 5 to 7 p.m. Pack a picnic basket, bring your family and friends, and get ready to enjoy some of the best talent North Carolina has to offer. You can even bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the lovely setting of the park and music.

Located one block north of the downtown business district, the Robert Smith House is open every day of the year except Christmas and New Year's Day. Visitors can watch a 15-minute video, which details the heritage of Mount Airy. Admission is free.

Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday: 10a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday by Appointment Only

BUS TOURS ARE WELCOME