There’s nothing like looking at old photographs. The feeling of nostalgia and a longing for different times just washes over you. Thanks to Yale Photogrammar, a true time capsule exists from some of the best photographers of the Great Depression and post-WWII era. Their photographs speak volumes about a different time – for North Carolinians, and for the U.S. in general. While North Carolina has both big cities and sprawling countrysides, these photos focus on what our cities looked like in the past, and it’s truly fascinating.

1. These amazing aerial shots provide a whole new perspective of Durham during the days when tobacco was king.
Arthur Rothstein
Arthur Rothstein
Arthur Rothstein
Tobacco warehouses circa 1940.
2. Pete Burns ready for pickup in Charlotte.
John Vachon
Circa 1943.
3. The Charlotte Truck and Warehouse District. CLT locals might recognize a few of these buildings.
John Vachon
John Vachon
At the Brown Equipment Company overhauling truck motors. 1943, Charlotte.
John Vachon

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4. A true classic, a beer cart in Charlotte circa 1943.
John Vachon
5. On your way out of Charlotte, don't forget to fill up at the filling station!
John Vachon
Circa 1943.
6. Since Raleigh had no pictures, Durham came next in line, but these images are truly fascinating and open your eyes to a different time.
Jack Delano
A young flower vendor, 1940.
Jack Delano
At the bus station in Durham, I hesitated for a bit on posting this picture, but feel it's important for those to see. How times have changed, in amazing ways, since this was taken in 1940.
Jack Delano
Street scenes from Durham, 1940.
Jack Delano
Take a stroll AND get your shoes shined. 1940.
Jack Delano
A day in the life taking place outside of tobacco warehouse. 1940.

Wow! I find that simply amazing and now I’m just itching to dig up more photographs. Did you spot any familiar buildings or places? It’s amazing to think of how much our cities have changed. What did you think of the images? Did they bring back any memories for you?

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