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Across Stanly County the arrival of spring brings an explosion of floral landscapes and the return of outdoor living. To celebrate the beauty and rich history of Albemarle and Stanly County, The Stanly County Historical Society will host a benefit Courtyard & Garden Tour 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 30.

Proceeds from this rain or shine event will fund educational programs and preservation initiatives of the Stanly County Historical Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. This self-guided tour will allow access to 10 private and public courtyard and garden spaces stretching from Albemarle to Richfield that will delight and inspire gardeners of all skill levels. The tour features a variety of garden spaces including DIY landscapes, restored formal gardens and centuries-old family farms.

Begin the tour at the Historic 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House at 112 N. Third St., Albemarle, and purchase a $20 day of tour wristband 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Historical Society volunteers and members of the NC Extension Master Gardener/Stanly Chapter maintain these historic gardens with plants typical of the 19th century of the NC Piedmont region.

Other tour sites will open at 10 a.m.

Site 1 will be the pocket gardens of Dr. Doug Hume and Dr. Jana Strukova, 1051
Pee Dee Ave.

Site 2 features the landscaping of Tim Johnson, 838 N. Ninth St.

Sites 3 and 4 adjoin the backyards of Lee and Billie Jean Snuggs, 249 N. Fifth St., and Hilda Snuggs, 250 N. Fifth St.

Site 5 is the magical space created by Austin and Megan King and Rob and Dondee King at 271 N. Third St.

Site 6 highlights the versatile courtyard of the Stanly County Senior Center, 283 N. Third St.

The iconic restored formal gardens of the Julius Clegg Hall House, 343 N. Second St. is site 7.

Sites 8, 9 and 10 showcase the rich agricultural history and beauty of northern Stanly. Travel from the homestead of Tim and Deborah Burris, 24414 Collie Road, to the rolling hills of the Lipe Family Farm. The outdoor space of Ed and Nancy Lipe, 37767 Paul’s Crossing Road, will contrast the restored flower garden and 1870 homestead of Tom and Anne Lipe, 37684 Paul’s Crossing Road.

Advance $15 wristband tickets will be available through April 29 at the Stanly County History Center, 157 N. Second St., Albemarle. All ticket sales are non-refundable donations. For more information call 704-986-3777.