Honoring the Past, Building a Future
A two-story brick commercial building was constructed circa 1917 for I. W. Rose. It housed Rose Drug Store and remained in operation in that location at least through 1980, making it one of the longest continuously operating drugstores in Rocky Mount’s Central Business District. Built by contractor R. T. Fountain, the structure reflected the optimism … Continue reading The Dentist Upstairs: Circa 1917 – #2
Some days, it feels like we’re living inside a Southern novel. Not the kind with porch swings and sweet tea, but the darker kind, where power and corruption hides in plain sight, and self-preservation outweighs public service. The longer I write about Rocky Mount, the clearer it becomes. We are not just observers in this … Continue reading When Real Life Reads Like a Southern Novel
It started with a prayer, one of those earnest, hopeful moments shared among friends when life throws a curve: Years ago my husband and I belonged to a couples prayer group. One of the men lost his job and we all began to pray, for a NEW job. Turns out we prayed he and his … Continue reading Preservation vs. Progress: Be Careful What You Pray For
Blogging, like Main Street itself, is evolving. Today’s readers aren’t sitting at desktops. They’re scrolling on their phones—between errands, appointments, and moments of quiet. I want to keep sharing what matters: preservation, restoration, and the future of Rocky Mount’s historic heart—while recognizing how most people are reading the blog these days. Starting today, you’ll notice … Continue reading Just So You Know…A Sunday Note From Stepheny
Downtown LaGrange in Lenoir County, NC - Watson Brown Look at this painting. Do you see what I see? This is more than just a row of storefronts—it’s a memory, a legacy, and most importantly, a future. It speaks to a time when Main Street was the heartbeat of the community, where families shopped, friends … Continue reading Support Local: The Revival of Rocky Mount’s Historic Main Street
Walking along Main Street in Rocky Mount is like stepping into a living history book, where each storefront tells a story. The entrances of these historic commercial buildings, many dating back to the early 1900s, are not just doorways but invitations—welcoming customers into spaces that have served generations of residents. Add to your 'Talking Main … Continue reading The Architectural Charm of Main Street Entrances – Rocky Mount,NC
Main Street Rocky Mount 