Monday, July 29th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.

Join the Highlands Biological Foundation for our largest annual fundraiser on Monday, July 29th from 6:00 p.m. until dark to help support our mission of fostering biological research and education in the southern Appalachians. This year’s soirée will take place on the enchanting grounds of the historic “Playmore” property, graciously hosted by John Mitchener and Heath Massey.

A peek at Playmore:

Playmore, originally known as “Wantoot,” boasts a rich history dating back to 1879 when Samuel Prioleau Ravenel and his wife Margaretta commissioned its construction. This remarkable estate, built by Francis Poindexter, a master furniture maker and woodcarver, stands as Highlands’ first summer home.

In 1914, the Ravenel family sold Wantoot to Jules Blanc Monroe from New Orleans, who expanded the estate and renamed it Playmore. The property remained in his family for nearly a century, preserving its legacy. In 2020, John Mitchener and Heath Massey purchased Playmore and have since undertaken a meticulous restoration, ensuring that both the home and its surrounding structures retain their historical integrity.

The 136-acre Playmore estate, recognized by the National Park Service and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a testament to the region’s rich ecological and historical tapestry. The property features a variety of ecological zones, from lush cove forests to striking rock outcrops and serene open meadows, reflecting the biological diversity of the southern Appalachians.

Funds from this annual fundraiser are vital in supporting the Foundation’s educational programming at the Highlands Nature Center, outreach in the community, and research support at the Highlands Biological Station and throughout the region.

A limited number of tickets are available.  For more information about HBF’s Playmore Soirée fundraising event, please email jamie@highlandsbiological.org or call 828-526-2221.

Parking is limited for this event, so a shuttle service will be provided. A shuttle will run continuously from Highlands School starting at 5:45 p.m.

 Please note: Since the Playmore home is a private residence, it will not be accessible to guests during this event.

Tickets are $325 per guest.