Secluded in an area rich in granite and foliage, Flat Rock basks in the southern sun while cooling as the wind blows off the Appalachian Mountain peaks and on the grassy meadows. The location of Flat Rock is oriented in the westernmost part of North Carolina, just before the South Carolina border. The geological composition of Flat Rock has been found to be granitic rock, which can still be found used in the buildings that make up the village. Over the years since its development, Flat Rock has remained a pristine historic area of ​​close relationships and generations of residence. Flat Rock has gone through various shades of importance and development; began as a destination point for American Indians in the 18th century, then as a refuge for wealthy South Carolinians, then quickly expanded into development and business, and now rests comfortably protected by the surrounding mountains but quickly approaching matters of environmental responsibility. Within the comprehensive aspects of history, geography and environmentalism, Flat Rock remains picturesque yet strong. In the wake of the 18th century Flat Rock was a well-known gathering place of American Indian tribes such as the Cherokee and Catawba, who ranged from areas of North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and South Carolina. The leather trade of deer between colonial settlers and tribes led the way over time and paved the way for the recognition of what was known as the “flat rock.” In a literal sense, this trading tradition marked the decision to pave a road known then as the old Saluda Indian Path, and today as the Old State Road; “The route of the road passed through the community of Green River and Zirconia to the 'flat rock.' A branch of this ancient Indian trail then continues… middle of paper… locally owned restaurants, apple festivals and historic homes. The natural environment and landscape of Flat Rock is a perfect example of what it means to live in nature. Trees dazzled with photosynthesized leaves, mountains reaching towards the clouds, and an earthy aroma bring together all the distinctive aspects of Flat Rock, making it a place of peaceful tranquility. Flat Rock's early settlers envisioned a place for summer relief and relaxation, but they were quickly enchanted by the sheer beauty and originality of the land, from which growth and permanence were inevitable. Flat Rock is not only the place of personal desire, but it is a place I am fortunate to call home. In a house that sits atop a mountain overlooking the town of Flat Rock and the mountain ranges beyond, my family lives, and as the years pass, our connection to the land only grows.