By Lisa D. Brewer

Special to the Enterprise

North Carolina’s fall family travel opportunities top a long list of reasons to love the Tar Heel state.

The charming town of Mocksville is conveniently located in the heart of the state, making it easy to reach from almost any point.

Why bring the family?

Because there’s so much to discover, and so much to enjoy – especially in September.

Check out our Top Five list:

• Although he never actually wore that Hollywood invention, the coonskin cap, children will find Daniel Boone a fascinating and colorful character. Historic Joppa Cemetery is the final resting place for the frontiersman’s Squire and Sarah Boone. The Quaker couple left Pennsylvania and acquired their property in Davie County in 1753. It was in Davie County that Squire Boone, a Justice of the Peace, performed his son Daniel’s marriage ceremony to Rebecca Bryan Boone. You’ll find Joppa Cemetery on Highway 601 (also known as Yadkinville Road) in Mocksville, across from the Scottish Inn. Look for the North Carolina historical marker to help point the way.

Yearning for more learning? Spend some time at the Davie County Public Library. The Martin/Wall History Room is a favorite among genealogists and history buffs alike.

Knowledgeable and experienced librarians are eager to assist you as you leaf through intriguing reference materials. You’ll find a treasure trove at the library located at 371 N.  Main St., Mocksville. Call 336-751-2023 for the hours and other information.

• The Davie County courthouse is on the national registry of historic places. Built in 1909 in the neo-classical revival style, it replaced the original courthouse which had been erected in 1839.

Who knows? Today’s visit might inspire tomorrow’s attorney.

The 1909 Davie County Courthouse, a neo-classical revival style building, is located at 140 S. Main St. in Mocksville.

• Downtown Mocksville has the distinction of having participated in the inaugural Main Street Program for municipalities with populations less than 5,000. The 1991 pilot participation is part of the National Register for Historic Places program. Community organizers made sure that funds were appropriated to preserve, restore and promote Mocksville’s charming and unique specialty shops.

Autumn visitors will marvel at the fall colors of the town square’s giant oak trees. The downtown area features a number of talented artisans, a music store, book store, and more. Restaurants within walking distance include southern offerings, hearty pub food, and even an ice cream shop. Plan your visit by checking www.historicdowntownmocksville.com for more information.

• If you’re fortunate enough to visit Mocksville the second Saturday in September, you can catch a 93-year-old tradition: the Center Fair. This two-day event features home-canned foods, desserts, and other delicacies with the cooks competing for ribbons and awards. Barbeque and bluegrass are also on the agenda.

Ruby O’Neal, a local participant of the fair for more than 30 years, says the fair has been known to sell 5,000 pounds of barbecue.

“I enjoy seeing all the exhibits entered by residents of Davie County,” says Mrs. O’Neal, who notes that the roots of the fair date back to 1923.

It all takes place at the Arbor” a unique covered shelter beside historic Center United Methodist Church, a presence in Davie County since 1830. You’ll find plenty of signs directing your travel from I-40 at Exit 168. Visit centerunitedmethodistchurch.com for more information.

• Finally, don’t miss Mocksville’s unique outdoor event: the Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival. The 68-acre camp in Mocksville is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

The fifth annual festival on Sept. 10 this year is the only bluegrass festival in the nation held at a Bible camp.

While the youngsters enjoy an abundance of free activities such as crafts, face-painting, and safe outdoor play, the young-at-heart will appreciate the classic car show featuring Ford Model A’s and the Pickers’ Place jam tent.

The entire family will delight in this year’s “bluegrass-plus” line-up that features Scythian, Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice, the Snyder Family Band, Song of the Mountains emcee Tim White and Troublesome Hollow, and Christian bluesman Lightnin’ Charlie. Carolina Bible Camp is at 1988 Jericho Church Road. Check out www.cbcbluegrass.com.

Combining a healthy dose of fun, comfort, and learning, family travel is good medicine. Mocksville makes it memorable.

Brewer is a promoter for the bluegrass festival.