The story of Franklin County is one of remarkable change and growth over the past 250 years. From its Native American roots, this corner of the eastern Piedmont has become a center for tobacco plantations, textile mills and cotton cultivation. It has seen seminal moments in the history of public education, Methodism and even capital punishment. One governor called Louisburg home, while several more have visited and even presidents have made brief stops. Local historian Eric Medlin narrates the history of one of the most exceptional parts of the great state of North Carolina.

This sweeping history of Durham County, North Carolina, extends from the seventeenth century to the end of the twentieth.

This richly illustrated volume--the result of nearly a century of scholarship--tells the story of Franklin County's change through the lens of its remarkable architectural heritage. The original houses were modest dwellings of frame, log, and occasionally stone construction; wealthier farmers ornamented their houses in the Georgian and Federal styles. Mills, churches, and country stores provided focal points for the largely rural population. Later generations built impressive residences in the Greek Revival and Italianate styles. Cotton and tobacco undergirded economic development well into the twentieth century, attracting railroads and industry that contributed to the growth of Louisburg, Bunn, Franklinton, Youngsville, and other communities. Churches provided important support to the African American community, as did educational institutions like the county's many Rosenwald schools. Craftsman bungalows, Ranch houses, and notable examples of Modernist design enlivened county architecture during the twentieth century.

" ... provides updated county and town listings within the same overall state-by-state organization ... information on records and holdings for every county in the United States, as well as excellent maps from renowned mapmaker William Dollarhide ... The availability of census records such as federal, state, and territorial census reports is covered in detail ... Vital records are also discussed, including when and where they were kept and how"--Publisher decription.

These sketches are the result of years of inquiry, research and compilation intended to give such traditions and facts as could be had from reliable sources and records. The demand for sketches of many of Pitt's prominent men made necessary the addition of a second part. Advertisements were necessary from a financial standpoint and are included in the back, separate and apart.