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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 of Albemarle and Stanly County, the Stanly County Historical Society will host an encore benefit Courtyard & Garden Tour 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29.

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 Badin.

The tour features a variety of outdoor spaces including a Spanish influenced courtyard, an English cottage garden, Charleston inspired garden and a wildflower meadow.

Site No. 7 is the home of Gary and Jane Rife at 23 Henderson St., Badin.

The 1916 home was built by the Tallassee Power Co. for the operating superintendent. Gary and Jane purchased the property in 2020 and have made the property their own with hardscape improvements including a brick walkway, gravel paths, planting beds and new foundation plantings.

The Rifes reclaimed the rear yard from invasive climbing English ivy with many young perennials augmented with colorful annuals. The transformed space is a mix of whimsical and practical with fairy gardens, yard art, vegetable patch and a favorite potting station and bench.

Site No. 8 is at 76 Henderson St in Badin. Carl and Denise Farris purchased this two-story home in 2019 and have since completed the interior restoration. Locally known as “The Super’s House,” it was built in 1914 as the Alcoa plant superintendent’s quarters for a cost of $6,800.

The first occupant was General Superintendent W.F. Rockwell from 1915-1916, while Jack B. Holmes was the last plant manager to occupy the residence from 1946-1966.

Following their recent restoration, the home was featured during “The French Connection” Badin Home Tour in 2021. Carl and Denise recently renovated the garage into a carriage house apartment. The 2.1-acre lot offers space for hosting outdoor family gatherings and special events, including a lawn wedding and reception of their great niece.

They are now focused on enhancing the current landscaping, while preserving the original well and arbor.

Advance $15 wristband tickets are available at the Stanly County History Center, 157 N. Second St., Albemarle, or by mail order from Stanly County Historical Society, PO Box 1384, Albemarle, NC 28002.

Pre-paid mail orders will be held at the will call station at the 1852 Isaiah Snuggs House, 112 N. Third St., Albemarle, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tickets purchased on the day of the tour will be available for $20 at the Isaiah Snuggs House. All ticket sales are non-refundable donations.

Direct inquiries to Stanlycountyhistory@gmail.com or call 704-986-3777.