HEARTS Event - Junion

“Junion” at Cedar Grove

The "R" in HEARTS is for Reunion, and provides an important genealogical component to the HEARTS (history, ecology, art, reunion, trails, store) mission, seeking to connect descendants of the Huntersville, NC historic sites known as Cedar Grove and the Hugh Torance House and Store, as well as the surrounding area.

In June, Reunion connections are honored at “Junion,” a free community event on June 18, 2022 from 1:00-6:00 at Cedar Grove.  “Junion” features stories, music, art, and real historical community connections.  The event’s keynote speaker is Andre’ Kearns. Mr. Kearns is a descendant of Charlotte Kerns, a woman who was enslaved to James G. Torrance, the man who built the Cedar Grove plantation.  He will share his approach to genealogy, how he applied it to trace his connection back to Cedar Grove, and how his journey has helped to inspire the HEARTS Reunion genealogy initiative.  Mr. Kearns is a genealogist, speaker, and writer, who serves on the board of the National Genealogical Society.  He holds a BA in Business Administration from Morehouse College and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He lives in Washington DC with his wife and two sons.

Following Mr. Kearns' presentation, additional Torrance connections to the historic African American neighborhoods of Smithville, Pottstown, and Long Creek, will also be shared.

In addition to sharing stories and connections, the arts are always an integral part of HEARTS events. Following the presentation, the musical feature of the event, “Cedar Groove,” presents the Calvin Edwards Trio.  Edwards is a notable soul jazz and blues musician, international artist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer.

The 1779 Hugh Torance House and Store, the oldest standing store in North Carolina, becomes new again at HEARTS events and serves as the event hub for the afternoon, offering artisan goods, beer, wine, and sundries from 1:00-6:00 PM. Fresh flowers will also be available for purchase.

“Junion” is the  fourth event for HTHS featuring the HEARTS mission highlighting History, Ecology, Arts, Reunion, Trails, and Store. HEARTS events share place-based experiences and explore local connections through the arts, nature, and history, providing a multi-faceted event for all ages.

The historic Store is one of Mecklenburg County’s few surviving 18th-century structures and is adjacent to Cedar Grove, the 1831 Greek Revival home of James Torrance, son of Hugh and Isabella  Torance.  Cedar Grove opens its doors for HEARTS events presenting music, drama, and visual arts connecting local history, nature, stories, and the community together.

This is a free community event with RSVPs requested on the Events page. All guests registering online become eligible for door prizes announced at the event throughout the day.

This event is made possible by dedicated volunteers, HEARTS Circle members, and community donations. All proceeds benefit HTHS’s efforts to further the HEARTS mission of historic preservation, ecological conservation, and forging community connections in our region.  

​The Store and HEARTS events are operated by the Hugh Torance House and Store (HTHS), a private 501c3 nonprofit. Group tours and volunteer opportunities for stewardship, preservation, and conservation are available. For more information, visit www.hughtorancehouseandstore.org, email info@hughtorancehouseandstore.org, or call (704) 920-9931.