Posted in North Carolina April 08, 2020 by Robin Jarvis

15 Rare Photos From North Carolina’s Past May Have You Longing For A Bygone Era (or Simpler Time)

If you’re longing for days gone by, perhaps to a time when the world was much less complicated, then take a walk down memory lane with the following 15 old photos taken in North Carolina. What a fantastic window into the past – and a great way to take a break from the sometimes overwhelming concerns of the present.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. Mechanical rides outside Clarks Department Store in Charlotte, circa 1962-1963.

2. This Hardee's location on McDonald Street in Rocky Mount was the original *franchised* store. It was torn down in the 1980s shortly after this image was taken.

3. Andy Griffith on a promotional tour somewhere in North Carolina in the 1950s.

4. Grocery shoppping in October 1958. City unknown.

5. A vintage view of the parking area at Grandfather Mountain, with an older version of the Mile High Swinging Bridge in the background. Date unknown.

6. June 1948. A day by the water at Lake Waccamaw

8. Rural mail carriers and their transportation in front of the Post Office in Gold Hill, circa 1907.

9. In days gone by, everyone pitched in to help the family - even if it meant just keeping an eye on the vehicle. Chadbourn Strawberry Market, 1939.

10. A portion of the barracks at Camp Bragg, NC. Photo taken between 1918 and 1922.

11. From 1930, an image of a forest warden cabin at Mount Mitchell.

12. Hendersonville's first trolley was pulled by mules! (Date of this image unknown.)

13. Eckerd Drug. The sign says 'Reasonable Drug Prices' - circa 1959.

14. A 1912 gathering at the Lumina Pavilion in Wrightsville Beach.

15. Car shopping in 1962... choosing the perfect ride to enjoy a spring day.

We love looking at old photos that provide windows into life in North Carolina in times past. Do you have a favorite memory to share about any of the places featured in the above photos? Feel free to join the discussion!

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15 Rare Photos From North Carolina’s Past May Have You Longing For A Bygone Era (or Simpler Time)

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