About BRCO

The hamlet of Bethel is the oldest community in Haywood County, North Carolina, dating back prior to 1808 when Haywood County was established. Our mission is to locate and coordinate local and regional resources to perform programs and projects that enhance the quality of rural life in the Bethel Community. We are dedicated to preserving the rural and historic nature of the area.

BRCO has been recognized by Western North Carolina Communities as one of the top six "Communities of Promise" for our work in the community, 3 years in a row as well as one of two "Communities of Distinction" in 2007. Our recent restoration and upkeep of the historic Bethel Presbyterian Church, which was built in 1834, is an ongoing project to turn it into a community center and central meeting place for the Bethel area.

To do this work, we hold the nationally recognized Cold Mountain Heritage Tour. The Tour is held in June and allows the public to see and hear about the historic locations. This and other fundraisers such as the Half Marathon and 5K Run, help us support the Frances Mill Preservation Society, the Inman Chapel, the Cathey House, farm land preservation and conservation, and a food pantry for the needy and other community benevolence programs.

These programs are always fun but take some time. If you are interested in any of these programs, and would like to help out, go to our contact page and we will answer any questions you may have.