Topics Related to Historical Markers

First Public School in N.C. (J-94)

First free school in the state, established under Common School Law of 1839, opened January 20, 1840, in this vicinity.

Charlie Poole 1892-1931 (J-93)

Pioneer country music recording artist. With N.C. Ramblers, 1918-31, popularized old-time music. Grave 1/2 mi. SW.

Edward R. Murrow 1908-1965 (J-92)

Radio correspondent in London during World War Two. Television interviewer & commentator. Born one mile east.

Leaksville Landing (J-91)

Port for bateau trade on Dan River. Improved by Roanoke Navigation Company, 1820s. Ruins visible at low water. 200 yards west.

Slink Shoal Sluice (J-90)

Dan River improvements built 1820s by Roanoke Navigation Co. include sluice & wing dams 1/4 mi. E. Rebuilt, 1880s.

Guilford County Health Department (J-89)

Established in 1911, it was the first county health department in N.C. and second in U.S. Now two blocks north.

Barnett Canal (J-88)

Built near here by James Barnett in 1813. Later powered largest continuously operating textile complex in the northern piedmont.

Palmer Memorial Institute (J-87)

Preparatory school for blacks founded 1902 by Charlotte Hawkins Brown. Named for Alice Freeman Palmer. Closed in 1971. Now state historic site.

Robert M. Hanes 1890-1959 (J-86)

Banker. Economic adviser to post-World War II Europe. A founder of the Research Triangle Park. Home was 50 yds. W.

Piedmont Railroad (J-85)

Railroad line between Greensboro and Danville. Constructed, 1862-1864, for the Confederacy. Its terminus was nearby.