Mountain Town Melodies

Southern Living, Jan 2004 by Austin, Farrah

Stop in Mountain View, Arkansas, and you'll discover why music lovers from around the world flock to this village.

Small towns operate on a rhythm, and few other places ring out a melody as distinctive as Mountain View, Arkansas. Snugly seated where winding State highways 5, 9, 14, and 66 intersect, this place makes musicians out of even the most musically challenged travelers. Time-honored traditions passed down from early settlers thrive within this country community. Even if you don't care to join in, Mountain View offers plenty of places to get into the groove.

Stop in at The Dulcimer Shoppe. The Pope and Cyndi Lauper own instruments from this store. The dulcimer, an American folk instrument that is similar to a guitar but is held across the lap, comes in abundance here. Owner Jim Woods and four full-time craftsmen construct more than 30 standard versions of the instrument, each with a lifetime guarantee. An observation window allows curious customers to take a peek at the process.

For more old-fashioned fun, visit Mellon's Country Store. A grand front porch greets guests to the quirky structure. Like something out of Life magazine, Mellon's makes you yearn for MoonPies and roasted peanuts (you can purchase both here). Visitors love the retro gas station signs (most of which sell for $13) and the handmade wooden toys, such as the store's signature round train whistle.

Then fiddle your way into Town and Country Interiors, which specializes in antique and vintage furniture. It's a nice change from the area's country crafts.

If you visit Mountain View on week-ends, get squared away at the town square. Local musicians and those just wanting to jam hold court here in the evening. Feel free to listen, or sit in and play a spell.

When hunger pangs hit, stave them off at Woods Pharmacy and Soda Fountain on Main Street. This place entices diners with its Reuben sandwiches and floats and sodas made with Arkansas' own Yarnell's ice cream.

An even sweeter taste of the town awaits at The Ozark Folk Center. Herein lies the story behind the melody. Designed to preserve the traditions of the pioneers who originally settled the Ozarks region, the center features local wares and demonstrations of old-time skills such as basket weaving, lye soap making, wood carving, and quilting, among others. It provides visitors with a fascinating view of the town's rich heritage. FARRAH AUSTIN

For more information: Contact Mountain View Chamber of Commerce at (870) 269-8068, 1-888-679-2859, or www.mountainviewcc.org.