Huntersville in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
The Kitchen Trail
Photographed by Mark Parker, July 29, 2026
1. The Kitchen Trail Marker
The trees you observe today were not present during Hugh's era. This area was probably an open space with significantly less shade. Furthermore, invasive species such as Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), privet, and others have caused considerable ecological harm by spreading rapidly, altering soil chemistry and displacing native plants and animals. Eliminating these plants allow native species to make a comeback, paving the way for a rejuvenated natural habitat.
The land itself is part of the story. Its contours reflect generations of cultivation and craftsmanship. Today, HEARTS stewards these grounds with the same spirit of care, honoring the past while creating space for ecology, education, and community.
Garden and trail volunteers are always needed. To learn more, email [email protected]. heartsco.org
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T is for Trails.
Where trails intersect, people come together.
The first trails in the backcountry of Carolina, were made by deer, bison, and
this page online
Thanks to Leadership Lake Norman Class of 26
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Where was the kitchen garden?
Although its original location is unknown, the kitchen garden would have been conveniently located near both the main house and the kitchen. It would have required full sun and a nearby water source. A fence may have surrounded the garden to protect the food from wildlife. We're excited to recreate it here soon.
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Stones found at the old kitchen site reveal clues about the first exterior kitchen. As we carefully clear away centuries of leaves and plant growth, we are excited to discover more.
The removal of invasive species like the Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) is an ongoing objective.
Erected 2026 by HEARTS Collaborative Inc.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Horticulture & Forestry • Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 35° 24.437′ N,
Photographed by Mark Parker, July 29, 2026
2. The Kitchen Trail Marker at the rear side of the Hugh Torance House and Store
Regionally, this marker is in the Piedmont and in Greater Charlotte. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Upper South. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 3 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: The Enslaved of Torrance Plantation (a few steps from this marker); Hugh Torance House & Store c. 1779 (within shouting distance of this marker); Visit the Store & Take a Tour (within shouting distance of this marker); Hugh Torance (within shouting distance of this marker); Gen. William Lee Davidson Was Killed (approx. 2.1 miles away); The First Sermon of Hopewell Presbyterian Church (approx. 2.3 miles away); The Tanner (approx. 2.3 miles away); Richard Barry (approx. 2.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Huntersville.
Also see . . .
1. Hugh Torance House and Store. (Submitted on August 4, 2026.)
2. Hearts - New life for old places. (Submitted on August 4, 2026.)
Credits. This page was last revised on August 4, 2026. It was originally submitted on August 2, 2026, by Mark Parker of Hickory, North Carolina. This page has been viewed 13 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 2, 2026, by Mark Parker of Hickory, North Carolina. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
