A Rich Craft Heritage
Grovewood Village is housed in the historic weaving and woodworking complex of Biltmore Industries, a noteworthy enterprise in the history of American Craft and textiles founded by Edith Vanderbilt and two inspired teachers, Eleanor Vance and Charlotte Yale.
At the height of its success in the late 1920s – under the direction of Fred Loring Seely – Biltmore Industries had 40+ looms in steady operation, producing bolts of some of the finest handwoven wool fabric in the country. Orders were shipped as far as China and Uruguay, and customers included Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Helen Keller, and several U.S. presidents and first ladies.
History Tour Details
Your private tour begins at the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum, located in the heart of Grovewood Village.
Start with a brief overview of Biltmore Industries and enjoy a 12-minute introductory video. The tour concludes in our historic Dye House (closed to the public), where you’ll step back in time to see the original dye vats, carding machines, spinning mule, and washing equipment used to create the renowned Biltmore Handwoven Homespun.
Tours last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The cost is $200 for up to 30 people.
Schedule Your Tour
Please schedule your group tour at least two weeks in advance so we can ensure the appropriate staff is available. Tours are available April through December—just share a couple of dates and time frames that work for your group, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you. This tour is not recommended for children under five.
Private tours are $200 for up to 30 people. Currently, we only offer paid group tours.
Please Note
Our century-old Dye House is not heated. Warm attire on cold days and comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
Accessibility
Our historic Dye House, Biltmore Industries’ original production facility, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has remained largely unaltered. Please note that this building is not wheelchair accessible.
“Just ten minutes north of downtown Asheville you can discover a local treasure tucked away in a charming neighborhood. Grovewood Village is a part of Asheville’s history, with ties to Vanderbilt and Grove, as well as a present-day destination for wonderful art and fine craft. It’s a memorable place!”
— Sherry Masters, Owner of Art Connections