A group of travel writers visited Lincolnton on Wednesday, March 10, on the first leg of the Clark’s Hill Partnership Familiarization Tour.

While in Lincoln County, the group visited Elijah Clark State Park and then enjoyed lunch, catered by the Lincoln County Historical Society, at the Groves-May House in the Lincoln County Historical Park.

Before lunch, the writers toured the park; listened to musicians Little Roy & Lizzy, along with Barney Zellars; and viewed the works of local artist Leonard Jones.

Following lunch, the writers were treated to a presentation on Graves Mountain, which is known all over the world for the quality of its gemstones.

Those taking part in the three-day tour were Christine and G.W. Tibbetts, Bobby Hickman, Renee Wright, Doc Lawrence, Kathleen Walls, John Nash, Randy Southerland, and John and Billie Trussell.

The writers also visited Wilkes, McDuffie, Warren, and Columbia counties.

Established in 2005, the goal of the regional partnership is to promote economic development by encouraging industrial development and the creation of jobs, marketing attendant tourism and developing new tourist attractions, supporting recreation opportunities, expanding and upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing transportation services in each of its member counties.

“Although the rainy weather failed to show off our area to its best advantage, the travel writers seemed to have a good time and learn a lot about what Lincoln County has to offer,” said Ashley Banks, executive director of the Lincoln County Development Authority.

“Hopefully, we’ll be seeing some articles promoting our county in the near future. Tourism means jobs and revenue for our community.”