Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities: A Cultural Gem in Southern Pines

Tucked into the longleaf pines and winding trails of Southern Pines, North Carolina, the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities is more than a historical landmark — it’s a vibrant hub for creativity, learning, and cultural celebration. With its storied past, dynamic programming, and serene setting, the Weymouth Center invites both locals and visitors to discover its role as one of the Sandhills’ most treasured cultural institutions.

A Storied Past Rooted in Literature and Preservation

The Weymouth Center traces its roots to the early 20th century, when James and Katharine Boyd built the estate in 1920. James Boyd, a celebrated author known for his historical novels, used the home as a gathering space for writers, thinkers, and artists. This literary tradition endures today, as the Weymouth Center serves as the home of the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame.

In fact, literary giants such as Thomas Wolfe, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Sherwood Anderson were known to visit the estate. Today, the Writer-in-Residence program continues to welcome North Carolina writers seeking a peaceful and inspiring setting to create their work.

The Boyd House, now a National Register of Historic Places site, sits on more than 26 acres of preserved gardens and woodlands. The grounds are not only historically significant but also visually breathtaking, with formal gardens designed by landscape architect Alfred Yeomans and expansive views of the natural Sandhills terrain.

Events That Bring the Arts to Life

Throughout the year, the Weymouth Center hosts an array of public events that celebrate literature, music, and the visual arts. These include:

• Writers-in-Residence Readings: Showcasing the work of current residents, giving audiences a chance to connect with emerging North Carolina authors.
• Come Sunday Jazz: Enjoy a soulful afternoon of live jazz on the Boyd House lawn, featuring internationally renowned jazz musicians in a beautiful setting. Picnic lunches welcome!
• Chamber Sessions: Experience exceptional classical performances by renowned ensembles in the elegant ambiance of the Weymouth Center’s Great Room.
• Ladies Wine Out: Gather with friends for an evening of wine, laughter, and light bites in the beautiful gardens of the Weymouth Center.

A full schedule of upcoming events can be found on the Weymouth Center’s event calendar.

A Destination for All Interests

Whether you’re a history buff, literature lover, arts enthusiast, or nature explorer, the Weymouth Center offers something for everyone:

• North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame: Located inside the Boyd House, this exhibit honors the state’s literary luminaries. Visitors can learn about the lives and works of authors such as Maya Angelou, Reynolds Price, and O. Henry.
• Art Exhibitions: Rotating displays by local and regional artists showcase the vibrant visual arts scene of the Sandhills.
• Garden and Grounds: Open daily from dawn to dusk, the gardens are perfect for a scenic stroll, photography, or a quiet moment of reflection. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great stop for travelers with pets.
• Historic Tours: Offered regularly and by appointment, these tours explore the Boyd family legacy, architectural details of the home, and the evolution of the estate as a cultural center.

 

Visitor Tips and Travel Planning

• Location: 555 E. Connecticut Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387
• Hours: The gardens are open daily; house hours vary by season and event schedule. Check the official website before visiting.
• Admission: Many events and garden access are free or low-cost, but donations are encouraged to support programming.
• Accessibility: The Boyd House is partially ADA accessible. Call ahead to inquire about accommodations.
• Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a walk through downtown Southern Pines, a round of golf at one of the area’s legendary courses, or a hike through the adjacent Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve.

A Cultural Legacy in the Heart of the Sandhills

The Weymouth Center continues to embody the vision of the Boyds, serving as a refuge for artists and a gathering place for the community. Its unique blend of history, art, literature, and landscape makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling through or staying in the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and Aberdeen area. To learn more, plan your visit, or support the center’s mission, go to weymouthcenter.org.

From literary legends to blooming gardens and inspiring performances, the Weymouth Center offers a cultural journey like no other in the Sandhills region — one worth discovering again and again.