Did You Know?

John Huyler (1846-1910) was a New York philanthropist who made his fortune in the candy business.  John Collins of New Haven, Connecticut, the founder of Montreat, knew of Huyler and his great generosity to charitable causes.  Huyler responded positively to Collins’ overture and provided essential financial support to Montreat in its early days.

In 1899, when Collins resigned as president of MRA, Huyler assumed that position and hired directors to manage the summer conference season.  One of the great needs during this time was housing for visitors.  In 1901 the Montreat Hotel, located near the present day Assembly Inn and funded entirely by Huyler, opened for the summer season.  Because of extreme indebtedness to Huyler, the board gave him a mortgage on the entire property except for lots that had already been leased to individuals.  He sought a buyer for several years. In 1905, Huyler entered into conversations with Rev. J. R. Howerton, then pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, who had visited Montreat many times.  Howerton proposed to the Synod of North Carolina the need for such a Presbyterian retreat center. The synod responded favorably, the General Assembly approved, the transfer was complete in 1907, and the rest is history! 

Thanks to the Presbyterian Heritage Center, especially Nancy Midgette, for this glimpse from the past. Stop by the PHC for even more Montreat history and so much more.