Carter Family Fold Celebrates 50-Year Legacy

Hiltons, Va. – It’s been half a century since Janette Carter began hosting concerts in her family home to honor a promise made to her father, A.P. Carter. This heartfelt journey, which started in 1974, bloomed into the beloved musical venue we know today as the Carter Family Fold.

According to Janette’s daughter, Rita Forrester, who now serves as the Executive Director of the Fold, it all started much more humbly. “Back in 1974, she decided to make that promise a reality,” Forrester shared with a warm smile, recalling how these iconic beginnings were rooted in family and community.

Originally, the shows gathered no more than neighbors, family, and close friends on an old rug. As time went by, the audience and the space both grew. Now, the Carter Family Fold stands as a formal venue offering weekly concerts that draw music lovers from near and far.

Forrester added, “I think once she started doing them, it was mostly neighbors, family, and friends. She never thought it would get to the size it is today.” This testament to humble origins speaks to how deeply the Carter Family Fold resonates with its supporters.

On August 3, fans of the Fold gathered in celebration of its remarkable 50-year legacy. The venue hosted an afternoon of musical performances, one standout being by Ronnie Williams, whose personal connection to the Carter Family dates back to those early days.

“I was at the first festival, and I’ve been doing their style of music for about 50 years,” Williams shared, expressing his deep connection and admiration. “They’ve been like family. They said they adopted me. That’s a good family to adopt you.”

Attendees like Vickie Boyd reflected on the importance of keeping such traditions alive. “A lot of music has gone by the wayside,” Boyd noted. “It seems like this brings it back and makes it really good.”

Forrester carries on the legacy of her mother and grandfather with pride, striving to fulfill what she believes would have been their wishes. “I hope that I’m doing what my mother and grandfather would have wanted,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.

The community’s support and passion for the Carter Family Fold are evident, and the venue’s future looks bright. This 50-year milestone is a testament to the power of family, promises kept, and the timeless appeal of heartfelt music that brings people together.

Here’s to many more years of music, memories, and the rich cultural legacy that the Carter Family Fold continues to uphold.